Home Inspector Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Start here to ensure you’re fully compliant and ready to succeed by understanding the licensing requirements for home inspectors in Virginia.

Licensing Required

Yes

Exam Required

National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE)

Total Education
Hours

70

Minimum Age Requirement

18 years

Citizenship
Requirements

Must be a citizen of the US or a lawfully admitted alien

Steps to Become a Home Inspector in Virginia

1

Complete a 70-Hour Pre-Licensing Education Course

Candidates must complete a 70-hour training course provided by a Board-approved training provider.

2

Complete Supervised Home Inspections

Perform 25 home inspections under the direct supervision of a licensed or certified home inspector.

3

Pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE)

The NHIE evaluates candidates on their knowledge of home inspection practices, covering topics such as Property and Building Inspection, Analysis of Findings, and Professional Responsibilities. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, with 4 hours allotted for completion. A scaled score of 500 or higher is required to pass. Each attempt costs approximately $225.

4

Obtain General Liability Insurance

Home inspectors in Virginia must have a general liability insurance policy with a minimum coverage of $250,000 per occurrence.

5

Prepare Required Documentation

Submit the following with your application:

  1. Proof of completing the pre-license education course
  2. A completed Experience Verification Form certified by your supervising inspector
  3. An Inspection Log (if inspections were completed prior to July 1, 2017, without supervision)

6

Submit Your Application

Submit the application and required documentation to the Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation (DPOR).

Continuing Education Requirements for Home Inspectors in Virginia

Hours Required

16 hours every two years

Renewal Cycle

Every 2 years

Additional Requirements: Continuing education must cover areas tested on the NHIE. For details, visit DPOR Continuing Education Information.

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In-House Training for 35+ Essential Home Inspection Services

WIN Home Inspection offers an in-house training program that is fully approved and meets all the requirements for becoming a certified home inspector in Virginia. Our robust training covers 35+ essential home inspection services and is included in the franchise fees, so no outside schooling or additional costs. This includes certifications in specialized services such as sewer scope inspections and drone roof inspections. By joining WIN, you gain access to state-approved training and state-of-the-art tools and technologies, including our proprietary report writing software, which has been a game-changer for our inspectors. If you're interested in leveraging a complete package that sets you up for success in the home inspection industry, contact us today to learn more about starting your business with WIN.

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Knowledge Center

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Frequently Asked Questions

1.

What is the salary of home inspectors in Virginia?

The average salary of a home inspector in Virginia is approximately $54,000 annually, with a range from $29,000 to $89,000 based on experience and location.

2.

How much does it cost to become a home inspector in Virginia?

The cost includes $225 for the NHIE, $80 for the application fee, and liability insurance coverage, which varies by provider.

3.

How long does it take to become a home inspector in Virginia?

It typically takes 70 hours of pre-licensing coursework and 25 supervised home inspections to qualify. Alternatively, candidates can complete 35 hours of coursework and 50 supervised inspections.

4.

How long is a home inspector liable in Virginia?

Home inspectors are not liable for issues discovered more than one year after the inspection date.

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