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Anyone who has bought or sold a home knows that an inspection is part of the process. Buyers and lending agents need to know that they’re investing in a property that’s worth the money, and the process allows sellers to fix critical issues like code violations to get their asking price and avoid future liability. 

As a home inspector, you can help home buyers make informed decisions about a major purchase. Before you start climbing around in attics and testing the plumbing, though, you must obtain a license from the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing. 

What do home inspectors do? How can you obtain a license to become a home inspector? Here’s what you need to know to get started. 

What Does a Home Inspector Do? 

Home inspectors are tasked with thoroughly assessing the condition of a property to ensure that the structure is safe, check that all systems are working, and detail any defects. Areas these professionals inspect include: 

• Home exterior 
• Basement 
• Attic 
• Bedrooms 
• Bathrooms 
• Kitchen 
• Plumbing 
• HVAC 
• Electrical system 

Although home inspectors check every part of the home, they don’t typically spend too much time on items like the foundation of the home, fireplaces, pools, hot tubs, or solar panels, for example.  

Special home inspectors handle specific items like chimneys and septic systems not included in an average assessment. Testing for hazards like radon, mold, and termites could be performed as part of a special home inspection, as well. 

Requirements to Become a Licensed Home Inspector 

Before you can obtain a license, you must meet certain criteria. This starts with completing 80 hours of pre-licensing education from approved qualifying education providers and submitting a course completion certificate with your application. 

There are also experience requirements. You must complete 10 parallel inspections with a home inspector licensed in Ohio or complete a curriculum of experience and peer review under a licensed Ohio home inspector or a board-approved instructor. 

In addition, you must supply proof of adequate commercial liability insurance and submit to two criminal background checks. Finally, you must pass the National Home Inspectors Examination (NHIE). 

The National Home Inspectors Examination 

This trade exam consists of 200 questions covering topics like: 

• Site conditions 
• Building exterior components 
• Roof components 
• Structural components 
• Electrical systems 
• Ventilation systems 
• Plumbing and fuel distribution systems 
• Interior components 

You will have four hours to complete this closed-book exam. The NHIE is scale scored, which means questions are converted to points to create a standardized measure of competency, even though different test forms may be used. Scores can range from 200 to 800 points. You must achieve a score of 500 or higher to pass. 

Preparing to Pass Your Exam 

You must pass the NHIE within the two years prior to applying for your license. The right exam prep program will help to ensure you pass on the first try. Look for a program designed for working professionals that offers self-paced learning with 24/7 online access to course materials. 

If you’re ready to become a licensed home inspector in Ohio, contact RocketCert today to get started.