Q: How do I get started as a home inspector?
A: Purchase and study the book "Become A Home Inspector!" to find out the details on what you will be getting into, what equipment you really need, how to actually conduct an inspection, and how to save as much money as you can on business startup and operation. The home inspection business is perfectly suited for some people, but not for others. A small investment now may save you thousands of dollars down the road!
Q: I bought and studied the book, and now I'm sure that I want to get started. Now what do I do?
A: Find out if your state has laws that regulate home inspectors. Every state is different, and laws are constantly changing. Some states have very strict training and experience requirements, while many states have no requirements at all. Contact the department in your state government that issues occupational licenses, ask them if they have any requirements for home inspectors, and if so, to send you that information.
Q: What is the easiest way to find out if my state has laws that regulate home inspectors?
A: Just go to your web browser (Internet Explorer or Netscape) and type in www.state.xx.us on the address line, but replace the "xx" with the two letter abbreviation for your state. For example, California would be www.state.ca.us, and Texas would be www.state.tx.us. Then press "Enter" and search for "home inspectors" on your state's website. If you can't find any information there, at least you can get the phone number of the proper state department to call.
Q: Will this book make me a "certified" home inspector?
A: No. In most states, there is no such thing as a "certified" home inspector. If your state does regulate home inspectors, then they have very specific training courses that you will need to take that will "certify" you in that state.
Q: I'm a contractor who knows houses inside and out. Is this book all I need to get started?
A: If your state does NOT regulate home inspectors, and you are experienced and confident in your home construction background, then this book may be all you need. But if you are not confident in your knowledge of home construction, then you will need to study other books or take additional training that covers houses and how they work.