Home Inspection Business Become a Home Inspector

The home inspection business book that closes the knowledge gap step-by-step  

Year-over-year, some 60% of potential home inspectors, complete inspection school, then disappear, but why? What did the other 40% figure out that kept them going? I took a hard look at this and have produced the key challenges to entry and survival in the home inspection business. I, myself, am an active home inspector based in New York. Here to share my knowledge with you all. With the expectations that future home inspectors like you do not just disappear into the night. Contrary to popular beliefs that joining a home inspection school & spending thousands of dollars, is step #1. It is not, confirming if this is the career move for you, is step #1. I have done the research for you and lay it all out in my book. Together, we will unravel and organize what steps to take, obstacles you’ll face, and the strategies to apply. 

Starting a home Inspection business: requirements to jumpstart your career 

1. Conduct research on the industry & assess your risk tolerance.

Do your due diligence. You will need to conduct research on the field to ensure becoming a home inspector is a fit career move for you. Research the demand of services in your city or state. You also want to make sure you can commit to the demand the field requires, and continuing educational requirements, where required. Once you have assessed your risk tolerance, proceed forward.

2. Verify pre-licensing requirements for home inspectors in your state and start training courses.

Review and confirm your state’s home inspection licensing requirements. Most states approve of online courses except for the in-field inspection part of your requirements. While you may learn from home or on the go, you pay extra for this convenience. The upside is that you can get through pre-licensing quicker. Some potential inspectors may prefer in-person classes. These classes run at set cycles during the year.

3. Register for & Pass the National Home Inspector examination, state exam, or both.

Most states require there inspectors to take and pass the NHIE exam, a state specific exam or both. These exams are not free, or easy to pass. For this reason, licensing schools offer an identical practice exam.

4. Choose the legal structure of your inspection business & acquire insurance.

Form your business structure. Even if not required, formal legal formation will protect your personal assets from any claims, whether you start your own company or go with a franchise. Seek professional advice on which entity type is best for you, as this is a personal decision.

When forming your legal structure, consider a sound business name that is well optimized for online search. Think of what you type into the search bar when looking for services. 

5. Review all application requirements in advance and apply for your home inspection license.

Before you receive your inspection license, you will have additional steps to complete, which should have become known to you back in step two. Pass a background check. Provide proof of insurance with the qualifying amount of coverage required. Some states require inspectors to become bonded. You may need to be affiliated with a home inspection association and or sponsored by an inspector you will work with.

6. Carefully decide on your desired career path.

Multi Inspection companies are on the rise. This is the fastest route to enter the field. However, the two major drawbacks to this option include being structured like the 9 to 5 culture you may wish to escape. The next being added fees withdrawn from every inspection you conduct. So you will need to make sure you’re with a team that pulls in a lot of work.

The franchise route offers you a local or national recognized name. This can make it easier as a new inspector to sell yourself. Start-up cost and requirements to become a franchisee are costly. Be aware not all franchises accept no applicants in specific cities or states. Conduct research on home inspection franchises well in advance.

While going solo is the hardest career path to pursue, as you will have to wear all hats. You are in full control and determine your schedule and pay. This makes it the most rewarding career path for many inspectors.

7. Find inspection software that fits your business setup.

Not all home inspection software is equal in terms of features or ease or operation across devices. If starting your own inspection business, you must consider your business needs and budget. Advice mentioned in the book is to run a trial of your top software picks and get a feel for it. See how your reports look when completed.

If you are considering being a part-time home inspector, look into inspection software that offers the per report option.

Full-time inspectors can look into all-in-one software with business management. Although they are pricey, it may meet all your needs. Another option is to go with standalone software and upgrade in the future.

8. Establish your online presence & network with real estate agents.

Consider the online presence that suits your business. A traditional website takes time to build from scratch and are not ideal for networking. A managed website with SEO packaged in can be ready in a few days but are costly. If you are on a tight budget, consider a Google Business Profile or similar for your web presence. But nothing speaks to networking online like a social media page. You want to be where future homebuyers and realtors are. You will need to raise your visibility and credibility within the field. An online presence helps make this possible. While success does not happen overnight, you must develop a sound strategy to align your efforts with acquiring a steady supply of prospects. You also must take time to learn about your target audience. 

9. Purchase tools & equipment.

Shop for professional grade tools and equipment. Think of safety and convenience with your purchases. Use of a thermal IR camera, moisture meter, and drone has become more commonplace. Inspectors today also work with a tablet or large screen mobile device when in the field conducting inspections. 

10. Structure your hours, services and prices.

As with every step before this one, you need to consider how you desire to price your inspection services. Per hour rate, square foot of the property, flat prices are some common formulas. You also need to survey the competitive landscape to gauge what prices and services your competitors offer. 

11. Market to your target audience.

Fish where the fishes are. Not all home buyer’s are alike. Your marketing won’t hit home and bring in prospects if they are not receptive to your messages. The book breaks down some key points to marketing yourself and services.