Download ASHI's official position on the regulation of the home inspection profession.

Existing State Home Inspector Regulatory Legislation

Study Up On Existing State Home Inspector Legislation

The American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc., recognizes that familiarity with state home inspector legislation and home inspector rules is integral. That's why the ASHI Web site is the definitive resource for inspectors, consumers, real estate professionals and the media for information, advice and resources dedicated to home inspection. You'll have a wealth of shared knowledge at your disposal, whether you're looking for specific home inspector rules or anything else. Read on for state-by-state examples or call 1-800-743-ASHI (2744) for further details.

Alabama Licensure (Act 2002-517 enacted in 2002) Requires individuals performing home inspections to become licensed by the Alabama Building Commission. The Alabama Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics (see Home Inspectors Rules and Applications) is adopted from the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The Alabama Building Commission gratefully acknowledges ASHI's consent. The Building Commission adopted the National Home Inspection Examination to assess minimum competence. The bill also outlines educational and experiential requirements to become licensed, sets license fees and insurance requirements, and defines penalties under which licensure may be suspended or revoked. This law replaces Act 96-574.

For more in formation or a copy of the statute contact the Alabama Building Commission, (334) 242-4082, (334) 242-4182 fax, e-mail buildcom@bc.state.al.us.

Alaska Licensure (Chapter 134 SLA enacted in 2003). In Alaska, home inspectors and associate home inspectors will be issued a certificate of registration by the Department of Community and Economic Development. To be a registered home inspector, an individual must: 1) pass the National Home Inspector Examination, 2) meet the educational and experience requirements as determined by the Department, 3) submit a complete application for registration within one year of passing the exam, 4) not have been convicted of specific crimes in the past seven years of the date of the application, 5) not have had the authority to perform home inspections revoked in the state or another jurisdiction, 6) not be the subject of an unresolved criminal complaint or unresolved disciplinary action in the state and 7) pay the appropriate fees. For the renewal of certificates, the Department will require at least eight hours of continuing competency activity in each licensing period. The Department will set the registration fees for home inspectors and associate home inspectors and determine the disciplinary actions and penalties for violating the terms of the certificate of registration. The law also sets home inspection requirements for residential loans purchased or approved by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation. The law requires that a written report fulfilling certain requirements be submitted to the person requesting the inspection upon completion of an inspection that will remain valid for 180 days after the inspection and allows for civil action to be taken against home inspectors for one year after performing the inspection. The law requires the home inspector to carry insurance and a bond of $5,000. The law went into effect in 2003 and all home inspectors are required to have a license by July 1, 2004.

For more information contact the home inspector licensing examiner at the The Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development at (907) 465-5470 phone, (907) 465-2974 fax or e-mail brenda_Donohue@commerce.state.ak.us .

Arizona Certification (Title 32, Chapter 1 enacted in 2002). The Arizona State Board of Technical Registration (BTR) certifies and regulates the practice of home inspectors. The law requires 80 hours of education, successful completion of the National Home Inspector Examination, and evidence of successfully completed home inspections. In addition, the law requires that certified home inspectors have one of the following financial assurances: 1) Errors and Omissions Insurance in the amount of $200,000 in the aggregate and $100,000 per occurrence, 2) a $25,000 bond or proof of assets in that amount, or 3) an alternate financial assurance mechanism approved by the BTR with a value of at least $25,000. The law states that loss of or failure to obtain financial assurance is grounds for revocation of certification.

For more specific information regarding certification requirements, please go to the BTR website and, under Regulations on the Table of Contents panel, click on "Applicable Statutes" (see A.R.S.§ 32-122.02 or "Applicable Rules" (see A.A.C. R4-30-247).

For further information, contact Manual Maltos, Home Inspector Certification Program administrator.

Arkansas Registration (Act 1328 of 2003) repealed and replaced (Act 791 of 1997). Unde r the "Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Act," all home inspectors in the state must register with the Sec retary of State. Applicants must pass the National Home Inspector Examination. In addition, home inspectors must conduct all inspections in adherence to the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of ASHI, the Arkansas Association of Real Estate Inspectors, or an equivalent professional home inspection association. The law also prohibits inspectors from performing repairs on a structure that he has inspected within the last 12 months. In order to register under the law, an applicant must procure general liability insurance of at least $100,000. These requirements, along with the duties and responsibilities of the Board, complaint and disciplinary procedures, continuing education requirements and more can be found In the Rules and Procedures of the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board.

For more information, contact the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board.

California Trade practice act (Chapter 338) enacted in 1996. The law in California prohibits unethical home inspection practices, including repairing properties that home inspectors have inspected in the previous 12 months. The law encourages courts to consider the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of ASHI and the California Real Estate Inspection Association when determining whether an inspection meets the required standard of care.

For more information, contact the California Contractors State License Board at 1-800-321-2752, (916) 366-9130 fax.

Connecticut Licensure (Public Act No. 99-254 enacted in 2000). Connecticut law requires home inspectors to be licensed under the "Home Inspection Licensing Board." In order to be eligible for a home inspector license, an applicant shall: 1) have successfully completed high school or its equivalent; 2) have either been engaged as a home inspector intern for not less than one year and not performed less than 200 home inspections for compensation or taken and successfully completed a board-approved training program, earned a home inspector intern permit, and performed not less than 100 home inspections under the direct supervision and in the presence of a licensed home inspector; 3) have passed an oral, written, or electronic competency examination; and 4) have paid a $200 fee. In order to receive a permit as a home inspector intern, an applicant shall: 1) have successfully completed high school or its equivalent; 2) have enrolled in and completed a board-approved training program; 3) have an identified supervisor who is licensed as a home inspector, is in good standing, and has agreed to perform the supervisory functions required; and 4) have paid a $100 fee.

For more information, including Regulations, applications, etc. contact the Department of Consumer Protection, Licenses Service Division at
(860) 713-6145
(860) 713-7230
e-mail: occprotrades@po.state.ct.us

Georgia Trade practice act (Chapter 3, Title 8) enacted in 1994. Georgia law requires home inspectors to provide written documents containing certain information with regard to inspections. This written document must include the scope of the inspection, including the structural elements and systems to be inspected, that the inspection is a visual inspection, and that the home inspector will notify, in writing, the person on whose behalf such inspection is being made of any defects noted during the inspection.

For more information, contact the Secretary of State, Construction Industry License Board.
(478) 207-1300 phone
(478) 207-1363 fax

Illinois Licensure ( 225 ILSC 441 enacted in 2001). Illinois law creates the Illinois Home Inspector License Act and establishes a Home Inspector Advisory Board within the Office of Banks and Real Estate (OBRE), which is charged with regulating home inspectors. To obtain a license, an applicant must: 1) be at least 21 years of age, 2) obtain a high school diploma or GED, 3) as a prerequisite for sitting for the examination, succ essfully complete 60 hours of pre-license education from an education provider approved and licensed by OBRE, and 4) take and successfully pass the Home Inspector Examination for Illinois, which consists of the National Home Inspector Examination and a section concerning Illinois statutes and regulations. Licensed home Inspectors are required to perform Inspections that meet the minimum standards of practice established by rule as adopted by the OBRE. The law also exempts certain professionals from licensure as a home inspector while acting under the scope of their licenses. The law became effective January 1, 2003.

For more information, including statute, Rules, applications, contact the Office of Banks and Real Estate at (217) 782-3000 phone and (217) 558-4297 fax.

Indiana Licensure (P.L. 145 enacted In 2004). P.L. 145 established the Home Inspectors Licensing Board to regulate home inspectors and associate home inspectors. The Board shall be responsible for setting the fees for licenses, investigating complaints concerning licensees and establishing continuing education requirements. The Board shall adopt a code of ethics, standards for competent performance of home inspections and standards for inspection reports. Under P.L. 145, licensing requires that a candidate: 1) be at least 18 years of age, 2) graduated from high school or earned a GED diploma, 3) not have been convicted of specific crimes, 4) complete a Board approved training program or course and pass an exam approved by the Board, 5) carry general liability insurance coverage of at least $100,000 and 6) pay a fee. The law also provides that a person who performs home inspections for compensation without a license commits a Class B Infraction. It also provides that any civil complaints based upon the profes sional services of a licensed home inspector must be filed within two years of the date the alleged Infraction occurred. This law takes effect July 1, 2004.

For more information contact the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency at (317) 234-3009 phone or (317) 232-2312 fax, or Email: pla9@pla.in.gov.
To download the law go here

For more information, including General Rules, Standards of Practice, applications and more, contact the Louisiana State Board of Home Inspectors at 225-248-1334 phone or 225-248-1335 fax

Maryland Trade practice act enacted in 1992. Maryland law requires home inspectors to disclose professional qualifications and the scope of the inspection within the home inspection contract. The law also requires home inspectors to conduct home inspections in accordance with the standards of practice set forth by a professional home inspection trade association such as ASHI or the National Association of Home Inspectors.

"The law for the licensing and regulation of Home Inspectors has been deferred until an appropriation to fund the program is allocated. Therefore, there will be no activity relative to the licensing, training or regulation of home inspectors. At this time, there is no date available as to when the licensing program will begin. Updates to the program will be posted on this site as they occur."]

Maryland law creates the State Commission of Real Estate Appraisers and Home Inspectors to regulate home inspectors in the state. The Commission is charged with establishing a code of ethics and standards of practice for licensed home inspectors, and providing a copy of such standards to each licensed home inspector. To qualify for licensure prior to July 1, 2002, an applicant must complete two of the following conditions: 1) complete a minimum of 48 hours of an on-site training course approved by a national home inspection organization of the Commission, 2) complete a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience as determined by the Commission, 3) complete at least 100 home inspections for compensation, or 4) submit proof of full membership in or certification by ASHI or NAHI . Effective July 1, 2002, an applicant for a home inspector license shall: 1) have completed a minimum of 48 hours of an off-site training course, 2) have a high school diploma or its equivalent, 3) have general liability insurance in an amount not less than $50,000, 4) submit an application sanctioned by the Commission, 5) pay the application fee of $50 to the Commission. The law also exempts certain professionals from licensure as a home inspector while acting under the scope of their licenses, and provides a reciprocity provision for licensed home inspectors from other states.

For more information, contact the Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing at (410) 230-6165 phone or (410) 333-6314 fax.

Massachusetts Licensure (Chapter 146) enacted in 1999. Massachusetts law requires home inspectors and associate home inspectors to be licensed under the Board of Registration of Home Inspectors. The Board is required to: 1) establish the requirements for licensure and for the standards of professional and ethical conduct; 2) establish standards for continuing education; 3) authorize and conduct examinations; 4) grant licenses to qualified applicants; and 5) establish penalties. The law also requires that the Director of the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation publish an informational brochure on home inspections which must be issued to home buyers at the signing of an offer to purchase. Lic ensed home inspectors must: 1) have successfully completed high school or its equivalent; 2) have been engaged as a licensed associate home inspector for not less than one year and have performed not less than 100 home inspections under the supervision of a licensed home inspector; 3) have passed the National Home Inspector Examination; and 4) paid the appropriate fee. A licensed associate home inspector must: 1) have successfully completed high school or its equivalent; 2) have performed not less than 25 home inspections in the presence of a licensed home inspector; 3) have passed the National Home Inspector Examination; 4) have an identified supervisor who is a person licensed in good standing as a home inspector; and 5) paid the appropriate fee. Licensed home inspectors and associate home inspectors must carry errors and omissions insurance in an amount not less than $250,000. Also, a home inspector or associate home inspector may not attempt to limit liability for negligent or wrongful errors or omissions by use of a clause within a performance contrac t that limits the cost of damages from negligent or wrongful errors or omissions.

Amendment to Current Law( Ch. 146 of 1999) enacted in 2001. The amended section of the law (Chapter 17 of 2001) extends the time period during which the Board may issue a temporary license to an applicant seeking licensure as a home inspector. The law moves the effective date back to November 1, 2001 from May 1, 2001 and establishes the criteria under which a temporary license may be issued. A temporary license may be issued if: 1) an individual has been engaged in home inspection for not less than three years prior to the effective date and has performed at least 100 inspections for compensation, or 2) an individual has been engaged in the practice of home inspection for not less than one year prior to the effective date, and has performed at least 125 inspections for compensation. Temporary licenses shall terminate in 90 days, or whenever the applicant furnishes proof of having passed a licensing examination approved by the Board, whichever occurs first.

For more information, including Rules and Regulations, contact the Board of Registration of Home Inspectors at (617) 727-4459 phone or (617) 727-2197 fax.

Mississippi Licensure (Chapter 71) enacted in 2001. Mississippi law requires home inspectors to be licensed by the Mississippi Real Estate Commission (Commission) and is given the following powers: 1) receiving and approving applications for licensure and collecting fees, 2) implementing recommendations made by the Home Inspector Advisory Board, 3) adoption of a code of ethics and standards of practice 4) developing a licensing exam (the Commission adopted the National Home Inspector Examination to assess minimum competence) which meets nation ally recognized standards, as well as developing applications and licensing forms, 6) adopting rules and regulations for administering the law. The. The law also created a five person Home Inspector Regulatory Board (Board), members of which are to be licensed inspectors, and appointed by the Governor. The Board serves in an advisory capacity to the C ommission, and was given the following duties and powers: 1) responsibility for matters relating to the code of ethics, standards and qualifications, 2) holding hearings and preparing examination specifications for licensure, 3) conducting investigations, 4) further defining regulation, educational and equivalent experience, and 5) recommending suspension or revocation of licenses. To qualify for a license under this act, a person must: 1) have successfully completed high school or attained an equivalency degree, 2) be at least 21 years old, 3) have successfully completed an approved course of study of at least 60 hours, which may include field work as required by the Commission, 4) pass the National Home Inspector Examination, and 5) provide a certificate of insurance for errors and omissions and general liability. Certain individuals acting under their profession or license are exempted from additional licensure by the Commission for "visual inspections"--specialty and general contractors, architects, engineers, financial institution employee, licensed real estate broker, appraiser or home builder. There is also a three-year limitation included for clients seeking to recover damages from an inspection, a reciprocity provision, and a grandfather clause included in the act.

For more information, including forms, education providers and more, contact the Real Estate Commission (Home Inspector Regulatory Board) at (601) 932-9191.

Montana Trade Practice Act ( Chapter 14, Title 30) enacted in 1999. Montana law, the Home Inspection Trade Practices Act, prescribes what elements must be identified in a home inspection and defines prohibited activities by a home inspector.

For more information, c ontact the Office of Building Codes and Inspection at (406) 841-2040 phone or (406) 841-2050 fax.

Nevada Certification (NRS 645D.120 and NAC 645D.210) enacted in 1997. Nevada law provides for the certification of home inspectors of structures by the Real Estate Division of the Department of Business and Industry. An applicant for certification as a certified residential Inspector : (a) must furnish proof to the Division that he has successfully completed 1) not less than 40 hours of academic Instruction In subjects related to structural Inspections In courses approved by the Division or equivalent experience as an Inspector, and 2) an examination approved by the Division, and (b) must possess a high school diploma or Its equivalent. Experience as an Inspector must demonstrate ability of the applicant to produce a credible Inspection report according to the stand ards and requi rements set In the statute and codes. Applicants must submit to the Division a log of Inspections performed for a fee on a form supplied by the Division. Applicants must submit proof that they have errors and omissions insurance of at least $100,000 and general liability insurance of at least $100,000. The law also provides that a purchaser may not recover damages from a seller on the basis of an error or omission in the disclosure form that was caused by the seller's reliance upon information provided to the seller by a certified inspector of real estate.

For more information, contact the Department of Business and Industry, Real Estate Division
(775) 687-4280 phone
(775) 687-4868 fax

New Jersey Licensure (Chapter 8, Title 45) enacted in 1998. New Jersey's "Home Inspection Professional Licensing Act," sets specific educational and experience requirements in order to become a licensed home inspector. All home inspec tors are required to: 1) complete high school or its equivalent; 2) serve as a licensed associate inspector for at least one year; 3) perform at least 250 inspections; 4) carry $500,000 in insurance; and 5) pass the National Home Inspector Examination. Inspectors do not have to be a member or candidate of ASHI in order to take the exam. In order to become a licensed associate home inspector under the law, an inspector must: 1) perform at least 50 inspections in the presence of a licensed inspector; and 2) pass the National Home Inspector Examination. Also, the law provides that, if home inspectors fail to disclose problems or accept payment from another party in the transaction, they can lose their license. Home inspectors are regulated by a five-member Home Inspection Advisory Committee, housed under the State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

In 2003, Public Law 2003, Chapter 77 was passed, amending the grandfathering requirements and extending the grandfathering window by one year, until June 30, 2004. Home Inspectors now have until December 31, 2005 to obtain their licenses.

In 2005, Public Law 2005, Chapter 201 was passed. The law states that to b e eligible for home inspector licensure an applicant has two options: (1) successfully complete an approved course of study not less than 180 hours, as prescribed by the State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, after consultation with the State Department of Education, which shall include not less than 40 hours of unpaid field-based inspections in the presence of and under the direct supervision of a licensed home inspector; or (2) perform not less than 250 fee-paid home inspections in the presence of and under the direct supervision of a licensed home inspector. The licensed home inspector who oversees these inspections must take full responsibility for the inspection and any report produced. In addition, the law stipulates that as a condition for home inspector biennial license renewal, an individual shall complete 40 credit hours of continuing education.

The law also changes current law, which states home inspector applicants must pass the examinations offered by ASHI. The law instead will require applicants to pass an examination administered or approved by the Home Inspection Advisory Committee, which would not necessarily be ASHI's exam.

The law eliminates the classification of "Associate Home Inspector." During the first 180 days after the bill's enactment, the Home Inspection Advisory Committee shall, upon application, issue a home inspector license to any person whose a pplication for an Associate Home Inspector license had been approved by the committee prior to December 30, 2005 or who satisfied certain requirements and had completed 40 hours of unpaid field-based inspections under the direct supervision of a licensed home inspector prior to December 30, 2005.

For more information, contact the NJ Home Inspection Advisory Committee at (973) 504-6460.

New York Licensure (Chapter 461 of the Laws of 2004) The "Home Inspector Professional Licensing Act"takes effect December 31, 2005 and requires that all home inspectors obtain a license. Home inspectors will be licensed for two years and must pay an initial fee of $250.00 and renewal fees of $100.00 thereafter. The basic provisions of the law include requirements for obtaining a license, including classroom education and on site inspection training, confirmation of an appropriate knowledge base via testing, the development of a required standard of practice and code of ethics, continuing education requirements for license renewal, and a duty of care of all license holders to the client. There are two routes to obtaining a license. An applicant must complete 140 hours of approved training, including 40 hours of unpaid inspecti on experience under the direct supervision of a licensed inspector, or have 100 hours of paid or unpaid inspection experience under the direct supervision of a licensed inspector. The applicant must also pass an approved written exam. Additionally, there are grandfathering provisions in the law that recognize the value of prior experience. To receive a license under this provision, an inspector must have inspected at least 100 homes within the last two years and pass an approved exam, or have inspected at least 250 homes for compensation and have been a practicing inspector for at least three years, prior to the enforcement of this law.

There is an advisory Council consisting of 4 inspectors and 2 public members, that must meet to advise the Secretary regarding the appropriate rules and regulations, education requirements, examination, standards of practice and code of ethics. The Council will suggest the number of hours needed to meet continuing education requirements.

The law requires that a licensed home inspector maintain appropriate general liability insurance.

Finally, Under the Duty of Care provisions, every home inspector must provide a written report to the client, indicating what components and systems were observed, and must maintain the client's wishes for confidentiality. The inspector may not do repairs on a home he/she has inspected for real estate sales purposes, in spect homes in which the inspector may have a financial interest, pay referral fees to agents or sellers, or inspect homes when payment is contingent upon closing, or pre-established or prescribed findings.

For more information contact Keith W. Stack, Deputy Secretary of State for Business and Licensing Services, New York State Department of State Division of Licensing Services, (518) 474-4429, (518) 473-6648 fax, e-mail licensing@dos.state.ny.us.

North Carolina Licensure ( Chapter 143, Article 9F) enacted in 1993. The North Carolina "Home Inspection Licensure Act" provides for the licensing and regulation of home inspectors through the creation of a Home Inspector Licensure Board within th e Department of Insurance. In order to become licensed as a home inspector, an individual must pass the licensing examination prescribed by the Board, have minimum net assets or a bond in an amount determined by the Board (not less than $5,000 nor more than $10,000) and meet certain educational condit ions, including: 1) have a high school diploma or its equivalent, have been engaged as a licensed associate home inspector for at least one year, and have completed 100 home inspections for compensation; 2) have education and experience the Board considers to be equivalent to that in subpart 1. above; or 3) be licensed as a general contractor, architect, or professional engineer. In order to become licensed as an associate home inspector, an individual must pass a licensing examination prescribed by the Board, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and be affiliated with or intend to be affiliated with a licensed home inspector and submit a sworn statement by the licensed home inspector with whom the applicant is or intends to be affiliated certifying that the licensed home inspector will actively supervise and train the applicant.

For more information, contact the Inspector License Board at (919) 662-4480, (919) 662-4414 fax.

Scroll down to Home Inspector Licensure Board

The Gen eral Statutes and the Administrative Code are meant to be used together.

North Dakota Registration (HB 1507 enacted in 2005 ) states the requirements for home inspector registration and license renewal procedures. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have submitted proof of errors and omissions insurance coverage in the amount of $100,000, and have paid a $200 fee. The law exempts applicants that perform home inspections for residential buildings located outside the corporate limits of any city or located in a city with a population under three thousand from being required to carry errors and omissions insurance in the amount of $100,000. The bill provides a penalty for home inspectors that fail to register, making any individual that provides a home inspection without registration guilty of a class B misdemeanor. Also states that an applicant shall submit proof of completion of an examination offered by the American Society of Home Inspectors, the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors, the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors, the National Association of Home Inspectors, or the International Code Council. For mor e information, including registration forms, go to the Home Inspector page at the North Dakota Secretary of State Web site or call 701-328-2900 or e-mail sos@state.nd.us.

Oklahoma Licensure (Section 858-622 of Title 59) enacted in 2001. The "Oklahoma Home Inspection Licensing Act" provides for the licensing of home inspectors through the State Board of Health, and a newly created Committee of Home Inspector Examiners (Committee). The Committee is charged with advising the Board of Health in establishing rules relating to: 1) qualifications and examinations for licensure (the committee has adopted the National Home Inspector Examination as the test for minimum competence), 2) renewal requirements, 3) reinstatement of licenses, 4) continuing education, 5) standards of practice and prohibitions, 6) approval of schools and educational course content for home inspection, 7) standards for schools to remain approved to provide courses of instruction, 8) reciprocity agreements, and 9) investigative procedures. These Rules have been established in Title 310, Chapter 276. In order to take an examination for licensure, an applicant must be at least 18 years of age, and successfully complete 50 hours of home inspection training, or its equivalent, as determined by the Committee. Renewal of licenses will be granted provided home inspectors attend five hours of continuing education within the preceding 12 months. Under the law, licensed home inspectors will be required to carry no less than $50,000 of general liability insurance.

For more information, contact the Department of Health, Occupational Licensing at 1000 N.E. Tenth, Oklahoma City, OK 73117

Phone: (405)271-5243 FAX: (405)271-3458

Oregon Certification ( ORS 701.350, 355) enacted in 1997. The Oregon Home Inspection Certification Law requires individuals who perform home inspections of two or more components to be certified by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). An individual must meet minimum training and/or experience requirements to take a comprehensive test, pass the test and complete continuing education courses to renew certific ation. The Oregon Standards of Practice, Standards of Behavior and Definitions are adopted from the ASHI Standards with Oregon amendments; Oregon acknowledges the assistance of ASHI in developing its standards and definitions. Each certified home inspector must be an owner or employee of a business licensed with the CCB. Businesses that perform home inspections must be licensed with the CCB in catego ries that require either a $10,000 or $15,000 bond and either a $300,000 or $500,000 liability insurance policy. Amendment to current law (ORS 710.35, Chapter 812). The amendment to current law provides an exemption for a home inspector acting within the scope of his/her certification or licensure, from licensure as a real estate appraiser.

For more information, contact the Construction Contractors Board at (503) 378-4621 phone or (503) 373-2007 fax.

Pennsylvania Trade Practice Act ( Act 114 of 2000, Title 68 enacted in 2000). The law in Pennsylvania provides a uniform definition for the term "home inspection" and for a national home inspection association. It establishes that a home inspector shall conduct their inspection in accordance with the standards of practice set forth by a professional home inspection trade association such as ASHI or the National Association of Home Inspectors. It further outlines consumer remedies as they rel ate to a home inspection, and establishes penalties for misrepresentations of fact in an inspection report. Under the law, home inspectors are required to maintain errors and omissions and general liability insurance with coverage of not less than $100,000 per occurrence and $500,000 in the aggregate. The law is scheduled to take effect in December 2001.

For more information, contact the Pennsylvania Home Inspectors Coalition.

Contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of Consumer Protection at (717) 787-9707.

Rhode Island Trade practice act enacted in 1996. The law in Rhode Island forbids home inspectors, pest control inspectors, and contractors from doing work on property that is inspected prior to real estate sales. The law was passed to help eliminate activities that could present a conflict of interest.

Licensure (Chapter 65.1) enacted in 2000. Rhode Island law creates a home inspector licensing law and requires that all home inspectors be licensed. Home inspectors would be required to maintain $250,000 of liability insurance, pass the National Home Inspector Examination, and abide by standards of practice and a code of ethics. NOTE: This law is currently not funded.

For more information, contact the RI Contractors' Registration Board at (401) 222-1268 phone or (401) 222-2599 fax.

South Carolina Licensure (Title 40, Chapter 59, Article 3) enacted in 1996. South Carolina law requires any person desiring to be a licensed home inspector to file with the South Carolina Residential Builders Commission. A home inspector must show to the satisfaction of the Commission that he is currently certified as a home inspector by an organization recognized by the Commission, that he has a minimum of one year of experience as a home inspector under the supervisi on of a licensed inspector, and that he has performed a minimum of fifty residential inspections.

For more information, including Rules and Regulations, contact the
Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation,
Residential Builders Commission
(803) 896-4621 main
(803) 896-4696 for Home Inspectors
www.llr.state.sc.us

South Dakota Licensure ( Chapter 36-21C) enacted in 2000. The South Dakota law provides for the regulation of home inspectors. The South Dakota Real Estate Commission shall issue and renew certificates to licensed and registered home inspectors pursuant to the provisions of this law. No person may provide a home inspection for compensation unless registered or licensed in the State of South Dakota. Applicants for a license as a home inspector shall meet the following requirements; 1) Good moral character; 2) Completio n of high school or equivalency; 3) Employment as a registered home inspector for no less than one year and performance of not less than one hundred home inspections for compensation; 4) Successful completion of the National Home Inspector Examination to assess minimum competence. Applicants for registration as a home inspector shall meet the following requirements; 1) Good moral character; 2) Completion of high school or equivalency; 3) Successful completion of an approved course of study; 4) Successful completion of registration exam.

For more information, contact the Real Estate Commission at (605) 773-3600 phone or (605) 773-4356 fax.

Tennessee Licensure ( 2005 Public Act Chapter 65 enacted in 2006) Any person who applies for licensure as a home inspector must submit an application on a form as prescribed by the commissioner. The application shall be accompanied by the fee specified in Section 4. Applicants shall furnish evidence satisfactory to the commissioner that the applicant: 1) is at least 18 years old, 2) has graduated from high sch ool or earned a general education development certificate, 3) has not been convicted of a crime that has a direct bearing on the applicant's ability to perform competently and fully as a licensed inspector, 4) is not the subject of a disciplinary or enforcement action by another state or a local jurisdiction in connection with the performance of home inspections or the licensing or certification of home inspectors, 5) has successfully completed 90 hours of a commissioner-approved training program or course of study involving the performance of home inspections and the preparation of home inspection reports, 6) has passed a commissioner-approved competency examination administered by the state or an entity selected by the state, and 7) has obtained a certificate of insurance in an amount required by the commissioner for general liability as well as errors and omission to cover all activities contemplated under this chapter.

During the first 180 days after the effective date of this act (July 1, 2006), the commissioner may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements stipulated in the law if the applicant furnishes evidence satisfactory to the commissioner that the applicant: 1) has been principally engaged in the performance of home inspections in this state for at least two years, and 2) has complete at least 150 home inspections for compensation in the applicant's career.

For more information contact the Home Inspector Licensing Program at 615-253-1743 or fax 615-741-6470 or e-mail Carol.Kennedy@state.tn.us.

Texas Licen sure ( Title 113A, Article 6573a, Section 23) enacted in 1991. The Texas licensure law, the Real Estate License Act, provides for the examination of home inspectors and established continuing education requirements. These and other requirements are contained in the Texas Administrative Code, Subchapter R, Rules. The law also requires home inspector applicants to work as apprentice inspectors under the supervision of a professional licensed home inspector. If an applicant is unable to obtain an apprenticeship, educational course work and an examination can be substituted. Home inspectors are regulated by the Texas Real Estate Licensing Board.

For more information, contact the Texas Real Estate Commission at
(512) 459-6544 phone or (512) 465-3910 fax.

Virginia Certification (Virginia Certified Home Inspectors Regulations) enacted in 2001. The Virginia certification law provides a voluntary certification program for home inspectors in the state. However, no person may hold him/herself out as a "certified home inspector" without meeting the certification requirement s prescribed b y the Board. The Board may issue a certificate to practice home inspection to any applicant who has successfully completed: 1) any educational requirements as required by the Board, 2) any experience requirements as required by the Board, and 3) passed the National Home Inspector Examination. The Board may issue a certificate to practice as a certified home inspector to any applicant who is a member of a national or state professional home inspector association approved by the Board, provided that the requirements for the cla ss of membership in such association are equal to or exceed the requirements established by the Board for all applicants. Because the law was enacted recently, the language does not include specific requirements. The Board is undoubtedly working on creating those rules and requirements, in preparation for the law's July 1, 2003 effective date.

For more information, contact the Virginia Board for Asbestos, Lead, and Home Inspectors at (804) 367-8500.

Washington Licensure ( SB 6606) enacted in 2008. Requires the licensure of home inspectors and establishes various qualifications for licensure. Licenses will be issued beginning July 1, 2009. Beginning Septembers 1, 2009, inspectors will be required to have a license to inspect. Anyone who can prove he has worked as a home inspector for at least two years and has conducted at least 100 home inspections may apply to the board before September 1, 2009 for licensure without meeting the instruction and training requirements.

The bill creates the Home Inspector Advisory Licensing Board, consisting of seven members, six who must be active inspectors and one who must be currently teaching in a home inspector education program.

The Director of the Department of Licensing has the authority to adopt rules; administer licensing exams and adopt exams prepared by other entities and adopt standards of professional conduct, practice and ethics. The director has the authority to suspend licenses.

To obtain a license, an applicant must meet the following requirements:

• Proof of a minimum of 120 hours of classroom instruction approved by the board
• Proof of up to 40 hours of field training supervised by a licensed inspector
• Passage of the psychometrically valid, reliable and legally defensible written exam required by the board

The term of a home inspector’s license shall be two years. License renewal would be contingent upon the home inspector’s successful completion of at least 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

Any person licensed under this chapter who is not also licensed as a pest inspector under chapter 15.58 RCW shall only refer in his report to rot or conducive conditions for WDOs and shall refer the identification of damage by WDO to a licensed structural pest inspector.

The bill outlines unprofessional conduct and lays out the hearing and investigation process into complaints. The bill requires licensed home inspectors to carry errors and omission, and general liability insurance. It also prohibits home inspectors from soliciting repair work on items listed in the inspection report until after the sale of the house is final.

For more information contact the Washington State Department of Licensing at (360) 664-8885.

West Virginia Certification (Title 87-05) enacted in 2006. West Virginia law, "Certification of Home Inspectors," establishes procedures to be followed to assure that consumers of home inspection services can rely on the competence of inspectors, as determined by educational and experience requirements and testing. As an initial requirement and qualification for certification as a home inspector, every applicant: 1) shall have passed the National Home Inspector Examination; 2) shall either present proof of having conducted business as an inspector for three years prior to August 1, 2006, or proof of satisfactory completion of at least 80 hours of instr uction; 3) must have successfully completed high school or its equivalent; and 4) shall present proof of, and shall maintain, general liability insurance in the amount of not less than $250,000.00.

For more information, contact the West Virginia Association of Home Inspectors

Wisconsin Certification ( Chapter 440.97 ) enacted in 1998. Under Wisconsin's law, home inspectors must register with the State and pass an examination approved by the Department of Regulation and Licensing. The law instructs the Department to consider the use of an examination modeled after the National Home Inspector Examination. The law also requires that a home inspector perform a "reasonably competent and diligent" inspection; however, the inspection is not required to be technically exhaustive. Home inspectors are prohibited from limiting their liability from damages resulting in a failure to conduct a "reasonably competent and diligent" inspection. Also, inspectors are prohibited from performing repairs, maintenance, or improvements to a structure that they have inspected within the last two years.

For more information, contact the Department of Regulation and Licensing at (608) 266-2112 phone or (608) 267-0644 fax or go directly to Home Inspector.