Alaska Home Inspectors Forum

[DeltaT]

Hello, I am considering a career in home inspection.
There are a few details that I am learning about. I am trying to outline everything involved in starting up.
Would anyone like to offer some guidance? Here is kind of an open list of what I think my objectives are, including some comments and questions... Please throw in any other advice, it is much appreciated. I need to make an informed decision!

- Become an ICC or NHIE certified inspector.
I would rather have the option of doing both new and existing homes, but if startup costs for an ICC certification are exceeding my budget, maybe I can start with existing homes until I can afford an ICC course and exam. Or do most real estate agents and home buyers prefer an ICC over NHIE?

- Join a home inspection association.
Is there one that is more common or preferred in Alaska?
I have seen some HI associations offer courses, would this be an option for becoming certified?
It looks like the State of Alaska only recognizes NHIE via AHIT and KAPLAN.

- Start an LLC, get insurance (how much and what type?), get a $5,000 bond. This one looks easy, I just have to get quotes. Are there any other things I should be aware of?

- Apply and get licensed by the State of Alaska.
- Market your services.
- Continual learning, required and voulintary.

Thank you, Jeff.

[Carol Perkins]

I am sorry that no one replied to you before now.

Rule #1 DO NOT expect to make a living solely from the inspection business for a year or two or three.
In Delta I would think that a duel license would be more likey to give you a broader source of income. However starting as an existing home inspector part time would give more experience and a little income to boot. I know in Fairbanks, and a few other locations, real estate licensees prefer to use an engineer even if they are not always upto date with recognized standards or building codes.

You will need to be licensed by the state for the type of inspections you wish to do. Go to the Dept of Occupational Licensing to get the regulations. We are consider subcontractors.

For new construction, I do not recommend the colorado contractor licensing coarses unless you are already very experienced in construction. They are great practice exams. There are week long seminars put on by a group associated with ICC; go to the ICC website for education opportunities. Remember all test results must be sent directly to the state occupational licensing department.

For existing home inspections there are several courses you can take. ITA has some very good in person seminars. Ahita also has in person classes. ASHI and Carlson have some courses that you can order to do in your own home. For any in home inspection course, look for an approval by ASHI, Nahi or some other recognized organization such as a college. There are some real shady deals out there. Again look occupational licensing for the testing requirements.

You will need to have a contract, general liability insurance, a $5,000 bond, and some sort of report format to get started. The report format could be as simple as a word procesuror document but I don't recommend that for a beginner as it is too easy to forget something. There are many programs out there so look around. some even have a trial version. Look for one that allows you to make some modifications, that way if you see a lot post and beam foundations or permafrost situations you can put in information that will show up without having to add it each time.

Tools to start will can be pretty basic. Good flashlight (keep a back up hand); screw drivers; good ladder that will reach at least a nine foot ceiling and if most attic access are out side a taller one too (The little giant type ladders are a nice combo); an electical tester with the arc fault and GFCI test buttons; voltage indicator: moisture meter; Smoke detector tester; personal safety gear (gloves, dust mast etc.); a tape measure; and a great camera is very important - a picture can save many words, but should never take place of the written word. At one class on the legal aspect of inspections I took, the lawyer made a point that picture can save your bacon or fry it. So just besure to save all of them and to make sure if they show something not right, you include it in the report. The many other tools that are available are very nice to own but you should be able to pick them as you go.

An infrared camera is very nice and very expensive. It is a big investment that should be done at the beginning until you are sure you are going to stay in the business.

Being an member of an national organization such as ASHI or NAHI can get you a recognition as a professional have on going chat boards and yearly conferences for increasing you knowledge and getting the required CEU's. Do not fall into the trap of a big telephone ad - they are costly and do not seem to pay for them selves in the long run. Word of mouth is the best once you get started. Try visiting realtors, A web site, and giving business cards to friends, family and who ever will take them - never give one always give two or more.

As I said at the start Rule #1 is 'you will not make a living at first', it takes time and money. I have seen several new inspectors come and go because they could not wait out the hungry time. Good luck to all who try.