Iowa’s New Home Inspector Regulation: What You Need to Know

Big news for Iowa’s home inspection community: The Iowa Home Inspection Accountability Act (SF 460) goes into effect on July 1, 2025, ushering in a new era of professionalism and accountability for our industry. If you’re a home inspector in Iowa, or thinking about becoming one, this regulatory change is a game-changer. Here’s what you need to know, and how your ASHI membership puts you ahead of the curve.

What’s Changing? Key Points of Iowa’s SF460 Bill

Starting July 1, 2025, all home inspectors in Iowa will be regulated by the state. The new law is designed to protect consumers, elevate industry standards, and ensure that every inspector operating in Iowa meets strict professional benchmarks.

To qualify as a home inspector in Iowa, inspectors must:

• Be a member of a qualifying national home inspection association
  (ASHI membership qualifies!)
• Pass a psychometrically sound home inspection exam, like the NHIE
  (ASHI Exam Prep virtual class prepares you for the National Home 89
  • 201Inspector Examination—NHIE)
• Follow a national association’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
  (ASHI’s SOP & CoE are nationally recognized)
• Carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) and general liability insurance
• Complete continuing education according to your association membership
• List 100 inspections for new inspectors
• Provide sellers a copy of the inspection report upon request
• Refrain from repair work on homes inspected in the previous 12 months

How ASHI Membership Sets You Up for Success

If you’re already an ASHI member, you’re in a strong position to meet, and exceed these new requirements. Here’s how ASHI supports every aspect of Iowa’s new law:

1. ASHI Membership: Your Ticket to Compliance

ASHI is a qualifying national association under the new law. Your membership demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and industry best practices.

2. Exam Preparation: ASHI Has You Covered

ASHI offers robust exam prep resources for the NHIE, including the ASHI Exam Prep Class, practice questions, and study guides. Whether you’re new or experienced, you’ll be ready for test day.

3. Standards of Practice & Code of Ethics: Nationally Recognized

ASHI’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics are the gold standard in the industry and fully satisfy Iowa’s requirements. Following these guidelines isn’t just mandatory; it’s a mark of integrity.

4. Insurance Guidance: The ASHI Advantage

ASHI helps members navigate E&O and general liability insurance requirements, connecting you with trusted providers and resources to ensure you’re protected.

5. Continuing Education: Stay Sharp with ASHI Edge

ASHI Edge offers a wide range of continuing education opportunities, including webinars, virtual classes, interactive and video courses, and more, to keep your skills sharp and in compliance with the law.

6. Professional Support Network

ASHI’s community of inspectors is second to none. Whether you need mentorship, advice, or a sounding board, you’re never alone.

7. Ethical Standards: Built-In Consumer Protection

ASHI’s Code of Ethics already prohibits inspectors from performing repairs on homes they’ve inspected in the past 12 months, mirroring Iowa’s new rules.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’re an ASHI member in Iowa:

• Review the new requirements in detail.
• Make sure your membership, exam status, insurance, and continuing education are current.
• Keep records of your completed inspections and continuing education credits.