The differences between “Licensed” and “Certified.”

So, do home inspectors need a license?

Currently, in the United States, there are 29 states that require licensing for their inspectors to perform home inspections, and Nevada is a state that requires their home inspectors to be licensed.

I wanted to take a moment to discuss inspector credentials. There are “Licensed” inspectors, with licensing obtained through a governing body, such as a State. And there are “Certified” inspectors, with certifications obtained through an organization, like InterNACHI for example. State licensing typically requires the inspector to obtain classroom education, followed by a Nationally accredited examination on home inspecting. After that, a certain amount of hours performing inspections in the field with a licensed inspector is expected. After all of this, the inspector may become licensed, with the expectation that they complete a certain amount of hours per year in continuing education classes to keep knowledgeable in their field. These requirements vary from state to state. And again, not all US states even require licensing.

For Certifications, this typically requires joining an association, such as InterNACHI, and completing classes and examinations to obtain a certification status. Often the requirements for education from the organizations are greater than the education expected from the states to become licensed. For InterNACHI, they have a Certified Professional Inspector status, as well as a Certified Master Inspector status. Additionally they have a great many system certifications an inspector can earn. Education is key to being successful in any field, and only with a combination of licensing, certifications, education, and on-hand field practice, can an inspector be well rounded.

The best way I have explained the difference between “Licensed” and “Certified” would be this: “Licensed” is analogous to getting your driver’s license. You studied, took a written test, and operated a vehicle in a driving test to earn this license. That is the state saying they believe you are able top perform the task of driving that vehicle safely. “Certified” is analogous to many years of actually driving that vehicle around, being comfortable, and gaining the knowledge and expertise to actually drive that car around with precision and skill.

For us, at Fruitful Home Inspections, we practice in the state of Nevada. We have our required licenses, we have trained with inspectors on site, as well as attended classroom settings. And we have over 500 hours combined in classroom education and training through InterNACHI, which is the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. If you have any questions, or are in need of services, please reach out.