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Your home is one of the most important — and expensive — assets you can invest in. Naturally, you want to make an informed decision about such a major purchase. Home inspectors play a vital role in this area. These professionals are trained to determine whether homes are structurally sound, up to code, and suitable for habitation. 

Each state has unique rules regarding qualifications to become a home inspector. In North Carolina, you must obtain a Home Inspector License from the North Carolina Home Inspector Licensing Board. Learn the requirements to obtain this license and what home inspectors are permitted to do in this guide. 

What Does a Home Inspector Do? 

Trained and licensed home inspectors are tasked with surveying properties, typically at the request of owners or lenders. They inspect homes inside and out, looking for structural defects, code violations, or other areas of concern. They then compile a report detailing their findings. 

As a home inspector, you’ll assess things like:  

• Living spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens 
• Attics and basements 
• Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems 
• Home exteriors  

To do this job effectively, you must be familiar with a range of building components and systems, as well as applicable building codes. 

Requirements for a Home Inspector License 

Before you can apply for a Home Inspector License, you must have a high school diploma or GED. In terms of education and experience, you will be required to complete a 120-hour pre-licensing course. You’ll also need to have 80 hours of field training, including at least 10 site visits. 

You’ll have to submit to a background check and provide proof of general liability insurance. It’s also a requirement for you to have one of the following:  

• Net assets of $5,000 to $10,000 minimum  
• A bond of $5,000 to $10,000  
• E&O insurance for $250,000 

Finally, you must pass a state exam. 

The Home Inspector Exam 

The NC Home Inspector Exam is a closed-book test consisting of 200 questions on these topics: 

• Structure 
• Roofing 
• Exterior 
• Electrical 
• Plumbing 
• Heating 
• Insulation and ventilation 
• Interior 
• Fireplaces 
• Contracts, report and summary 

You’ll have 240 minutes (four hours) to complete the exam. You must answer at least 70% of questions (140) correctly to pass. 

Preparing to Ace Your State Exam 

Passing your exam on the first try and obtaining your license lets you move forward with your career. This is easier with the help of an exam prep program designed for working professionals with courses developed by industry experts and educators. 

The right course will offer 24/7 online access to materials so you can enjoy self-paced learning that works with your schedule. You should also look for lifetime access so you can refer to materials as needed. Your program must offer test simulation, too, so you can build confidence and learn what to expect when you sit for the actual exam. 

Are you ready to obtain your North Carolina Home Inspector License? Contact RocketCert now to learn more and sign up for your exam prep program.