There are varying opinions on this, but it is now required for HOME INSPECTORS IN Washington State to be licensed.
Being a buyers agent often (I do both- about half and half sellers agent and buyers agent) I want only the best service for my clients. Therefore, I know my favorite home inspectors will comply. I do think some who should not be in the business will weed out.
Consumer confidence is key, and customer service is and should always be top priority.
Here is the information regarding this:
Beginning September 1, 2009, an individual must obtain a license to perform home inspections in the state of Washington. Individuals have until July 1, 2010 to meet the licensing requirements.
Qualifications for licensure: In order to become licensed as a home inspector, an applicant must submit the following to the department:
1.) Application form
2.) 120 hours of approved education
3.) Up to 40 hours of field training supervised by a licensed home inspector
4.) Pass written exam
**If a person has been performing the duties of a home inspector for at least 2 years and has performed at least 100 inspections, he or she must apply to the board before September 1, 2009.
Continuing education: 24 hours every 2 years
BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- Coldwell Banker Tomlinson South Inc.
509-362-4607
...there's no place like your home!
Hi BethAnn, being a former building code inspector for a major jurisdiction, I am all in favor of upgrading the training for home inspectors. They perform a vital function in our transactions, and as you, I rely on their work.
Frank, makes good sense :)
I agree...there are so many in the trade that there really does have to be some form of regulation, afterall, WE have to be, and so do Laywers, so it makes sense that the Home Inspectors are too!
Sasha, I think 120 hours is stiff though.
Would not have it no other way, and maybe annual continuing education courses like real estate agents would be good too.
Brad and Angela, they are required to do 24 hours every 2 years now.
In AZ the inspectors must be licensed to perform inspections,
I wonder how many states require this .
BethAnn, I strongly believe that inspectors should be licensed because buyer are depending on them when making their buying decisions and so much money is involved. My favorite inspector is a certified "Master Inspector" which is very rigorous. I think it will be great for Spokane buyers (and sellers) and the good inspectors themselves. Great post!
Melissa: well put! I only want the best for my customers!
Hello BethAnn and I really like your post and the little Red Ruby Slippers! Did you know that Judy Garland was born in Grand Rapids Minnesota and she use to sing with her sister in Theaters in Northern Minnesota before she became famous?
Your post has been featured at one of my favorite groups at AR .............
CUSTOMER SERVICE
VB ;o)