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How to Become a Home Inspector in
Becoming a home inspector in Alabama is an exciting career transition. To ensure success, consider these steps when it comes to licensing requirements and training.
Home Inspector Licensing Requirements in Alabama
The requirements to become a home inspector, including education and examination, vary by state. Here is what to consider if you want to become an inspector in Alabama.
Licensing Required
Yes
Exam Required
National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE) and ASHI Ethics Exam
Total Education Hours
120
Minimum Age Requirement
18 years
Citizenship Requirements
Must be a citizen of the US or a lawfully admitted alien
6 Steps to Become a Home Inspector in Alabama
1
Complete the Required Education Program
Home inspector training must be approved by the Alabama Home Inspectors / EIFS Inspectors Licensing Division. A total of 120 hours of education is required to qualify for the Home Inspector License.
2
Complete Required Field Inspections
You must either:
- Conduct 35 home inspections under the supervision of a licensed Alabama home inspector, or
- Complete 35 hours of approved home inspection education and participate in 100 home inspections.
3
Pass the Required Exams
In Alabama, you must pass both the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE) and the ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) Ethics Exam. The NHIE consists of 200 multiple-choice questions across three domains and has a time limit of four hours. Each attempt costs approximately $225. Taking a prep course is recommended to improve your chances of passing on the first attempt. The ASHI Ethics Exam tests your knowledge of the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of ASHI.
4
Obtain Proof of Insurance
Home inspectors in Alabama must have Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance with a minimum coverage of $250,000, as well as liability insurance covering $20,000 for property damage, $50,000 for personal injury or death of one person, and $100,000 for injury or death of multiple individuals.
5
Show Proof of Membership or Certification
You must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be a member of an approved Alabama home inspection organization such as ASHI, HIF, InterNACHI, or NIBI, or
- Be certified by the U.S. Veterans Administration, HUD, Southern Building Code Congress International, or Council of American Building Officials, or
- Have a GED or high school diploma and at least 1 year of home inspection experience (100 minimum inspections).
6
Apply for Your License
Once all steps are completed, you can apply for the Alabama Home Inspector License. The application must be notarized, and a fee of $300 is required. Applications can be submitted online for convenience.
Continuing Education Requirements for Home Inspectors in Alabama
Hours Required
15 credit hours annually
Renewal Cycle
Dec 31st each year (file by Oct 1st)
WIN Home Inspection
Kickstart Your Home Inspector Career
If you’re serious about becoming a home inspector in Alabama, you should also explore various career paths, including becoming a franchise owner. WIN Home Inspection can help you navigate this process. In addition, you'll receive in-house training (covers 35+ essential home inspection services) that is fully approved and meets all the requirements for becoming a certified home inspector in Alabama. This program includes franchise fees, so there are no outside schooling or additional costs. You'll also receive a home inspector certification in Alabama for specialized services such as sewer scope inspections and drone roof inspections, which can help increase your salary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.
What is the salary of home inspectors in Alabama?
The average salary for home inspectors in Alabama is upwards of $55,000 per year, or $26 per hour. Some home inspectors earn up to $82,000 annually, while others start at around $26,500.
2.
How do I get my home inspection license in Alabama?
Alabama requires 120 hours of state-approved education, plus the completion of either 35 home inspections or participation in 100 supervised home inspections. You must also pass the NHIE and ASHI exams and provide proof of membership in an approved organization or equivalent certification.
3.
How long does it take to become a home inspector in Alabama?
It generally takes about 120 hours of approved education, participation in 35 or 100 home inspections (depending on the option you choose), and passing both the NHIE and ASHI exams. You must also complete 25 home inspection reports, 10 of which will be reviewed by a licensed home inspector.
4.
How much does it cost to be a home inspector in Alabama?
The minimum cost for testing and licensing is about $500. However, there are additional expenses for starting a business and memberships in home inspection organizations.