BECOME AN INSPECTOR

Anyone who enjoys working with the public, is comfortable with climbing ladders and working in crawl spaces might be a good candidate to become a home inspector. In many ways the work is more analytical than physical. It does take a great deal of training and study to be a good home inspector and to earn the respect of other real estate professionals. To become proficient at the work and to survive as a business it takes both education and practical experience. With constant changes in construction practices and the development of new technologies, the profession does require ongoing study.

The legalities of working as a home inspector are less involved. A local business license might be your only requirement. To work as a home inspector in Virginia there are currently no special licenses or certifications required. However, representing yourself as a “certified home inspector” or offering to provide a “certified home inspection” is prohibited without obtaining and possessing a valid state certificate.

In Virginia, home inspectors are regulated under the Board for Asbestos, Lead, and Home Inspectors. The licensing Board was originally established in 1993 to oversee asbestos issues and was expanded in 1994 to include lead-based paint concerns. Home inspection certification was added to the Board’s duties in 2001. For specific details on becoming a Virginia Certified Home Inspector attend our session “State Certification vs. Professional Association” or click here to download a PDF from the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation's website.

Beyond the legalities, recent events within the real estate community make obtaining a state certificate a valuable credential. In some cases becoming a “Virginia Certified Home Inspector” can actually be attained before acceptance as a full member of most professional associations. If you want to perform home inspections in Virginia, we encourage you to get certified.