Which Home Inspection Certification is the Best?

When you're looking for a home inspector one of the most common questions is "what inspection certification is the best?", and that's a great question! It makes perfect sense to want your home inspector to be well qualified to do the job because you're making a HUGE investment, probably the largest in your life. The requirements for inspectors vary by state and some states don't require a certification or license of any kind. We operate in Florida so this article will cover what's required in our state.

Florida requires every home inspector to be licensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

In Florida, home inspection is a licensed profession, and that's a good thing for you. To be licensed, an inspector must complete state-approved pre-licensure education, pass the state examination, clear a background screening, and carry insurance. Licensed inspectors also complete continuing education to keep their license active.

Florida home inspectors have to follow the Standards of Practice set out in the state's licensing rules, which you can read about on the DBPR website. Inspectors are also required to carry insurance. Feel free to ask your inspector for proof of license and insurance prior to your inspection so you'll have peace of mind that if any damage occurs during the inspection, heaven forbid, it'll be covered.

Many home inspectors are also part of professional organizations like the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)

Membership in one of these organizations isn't required by the state. But it shows a commitment to learning and continuing education that ensures the inspector is up to date with current practices and technology. Southland Home Inspections is InterNACHI® Certified.

InterNACHI membership comes with a standards of practice that members adhere to, as well as a yearly continuing education requirement. It means the inspection a client receives is thorough, professional and accurate. You can learn more about the organization at InterNACHI.

Membership in a Realtor's Association Home Inspector Board

Again this is not a state requirement, but it demonstrates the willingness to go above and beyond the state's basic requirements and stay in tune with realtors and the real estate market. Membership on a board like this usually involves monthly meetings between realtors and home inspectors. Current hot topics are discussed or guest speakers give presentations on home inspection related topics. These speakers could be electricians, insurance adjusters, roofers or any professional that has deeper insight into the systems and issues that a home inspection covers.

The meetings are a great way to keep up with current best practices and gain insight about subjects that would be important to their clients. Southland Home Inspections works closely with real estate agents throughout Ocala, The Villages and surrounding areas.

Make the right choice!

In summary, Florida requires a license to operate as a home inspector and the standards are strict. A properly licensed inspector should provide their client with a thorough detailed inspection, an easy to read report and have a willingness to teach a homebuyer about the issues or questions that they have about the home.

Membership in a professional organization and a Realtor association demonstrates a commitment to being the best in their industry and should give you confidence when hiring them for your home inspection. Southland Home Inspections strives to be the best home inspection company in Central Florida. We proudly serve Ocala, The Villages and all surrounding areas and would be happy to work for you at your home inspection. Give us a call or schedule online anytime!