Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Become A Home Inspector For California

Home inspectors help homeowners find any safety or structural issues with a home before purchase.


Home inspectors in California are responsible for examining the mechanical, electrical, structural and plumbing systems of a home for potential homebuyers. They are usually hired by the homebuyer, real estate agent or mortgage broker to review the home to ensure that there are no major problems before purchasing. A home inspector needs to be knowledgeable about all aspects of a home, as well as be able to work with customers to ensure a good experience. Although inspectors in California are not required to be licensed, certain education and skills are needed to become a successful home inspector.


Instructions


1. Get educated. Although home inspectors are not required to be licensed in the state of California, you will still need to have some formal education to attract clients. Many associations and companies offer home inspector training by video or Internet. The average cost of a general home inspection course is around $1,000, and will also give you information about technology used to process reports. There are also continuing education courses in specialized areas if you already have home inspection knowledge.


2. Know the state laws of California. Most training courses come with a comprehensive test as well as information about state-specific rules. For instance, a California home inspector cannot perform any repair work on a property that she has inspected within the prior 12 months.


3. Start your own business or join a small home inspection business. To start your own business, you will need to advertise your services and market your business. You will also need to be organized, driven and provide good customer service to promote your business by word of mouth.


4. Join a professional association. You will be required to show competence in the field by taking an exam. It is important to be a member of an association because it shows potential clients that you are adhering to the high standards set forth by this organization. Some associations include the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI).







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