Public Comment (10 Days)

Comment Period: October 22nd –31st, 2025

Introduction

Thank you to all ASHI members who shared feedback during the first two public comment periods. Your feedback was invaluable, and the Standard of Practice Committee carefully reviewed all submissions to refine and clarify the proposed updates.

The ASHI Standard of Practice (SOP) are one of our most essential documents. They ensure that every inspection conducted by our members is thorough, consistent, and transparent—helping build client trust, strengthen professional credibility, and safeguard inspectors from potential legal disputes. Upholding these standards maintains the quality and reliability of our work, fosters consumer confidence, and preserves professional integrity across the home inspection industry.

We are now opening a third and final 10-day public comment period, from October 22–31, 2025, to allow members one last opportunity to review the proposed SOP revisions and share their feedback before a ballot goes out to membership for a vote to adopt or reject the proposed Standard of Practice.

What’s New in This Round

Based on extensive member feedback, committee deliberations, and consultation with industry experts, several clarifications and updates have been proposed:

• Deck and Balcony Section Added – Formerly part of “Exterior,” this new standalone section improves clarity and emphasizes safety and awareness around deck and balcony inspections.
• Combined HVAC Section – “Heating” and “Air Conditioning” have been merged into “Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)” to streamline overlap and align with industry terminology.
• New Garage and Carport Section – Previously included in “Interiors,” this dedicated section defines inspection scope for attached and detached garages and carports.
• Separated Insulation and Ventilation Sections – “Insulation and Ventilation” has been divided into two clearer sections: “Insulation” and “Ventilation.”
• New “Use of Specialized Tools and Equipment” Section – Addresses professional discretion and risk management in tool use.
• Expanded Definitions – Adds and refines terminology such as “Significantly Deficient” and “Normal Useful Life” to provide greater clarity and reduce inspector liability.

Each change is designed to improve usability, align with state-regulated standards, and reduce misunderstandings about inspection scope and reporting.

How to Participate

Please review the documents below and share your feedback during the open comment window. Each file is available as a downloadable PDF:

ASHI Standard Of Practice – Current and Proposed Wording (PDF)

Comparison of Items to Report (PDF)

Rationale Chart (PDF)

Submit Your Feedback

Please send your comments and suggestions to: standards@ashi.org

When submitting feedback, include:

• Your name and (if applicable) your ASHI member number
• The Standard Of Practice section or heading you’re referencing
• Your suggested wording or a clear description of your concern or recommendation

Thank You

Thank you for your engagement and continued commitment to maintaining ASHI’s professional standards. Your participation ensures that our Standard of Practice continue to represent excellence, integrity, and relevance for the home inspection profession.