Home Inspector

Home and building inspectors check that houses, apartments, and commercial buildings are built correctly, meet code, and are safe to occupy. They examine wiring, roofing, plumbing, HVAC, foundations, and structure, then write clear reports for buyers, owners, contractors, and local governments.

About the role

Building inspectors understand how every part of a structure fits together: wiring, roofing, plumbing, HVAC, foundation, and framing. They evaluate new and existing properties for code compliance, safety, and quality of workmanship, then explain what they find in plain terms.

• Inspecting residential and commercial buildings
• Identifying structural, electrical, or plumbing issues
• Reviewing blueprints or construction plans
• Writing detailed inspection reports
• Communicating with contractors, realtors, and homeowners

How to become a home and building inspector

Most people move into inspection work in about six months to two years, depending on their starting point and the path they choose. You build the career through education, hands-on construction knowledge, certification, and, in many states, a license.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED (minimum requirement)
• Construction or trades experience (electricians, plumbers, carpenters, HVAC technicians, or general contractors)
• Completion of an inspection training program (certificate or associate degree)
• Certification from organizations like the International Code Council (ICC), ASHI, or InterNACHI
• State license (where required, varies by state)

Training and education

Formal training ties field knowledge to current codes and inspection standards. Programs cover building codes, structural analysis, electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC, roofing, moisture and foundation issues, safety compliance, and report writing.

• Certificate programs: 6 to 12 months, ideal for those with construction experience
• Associate degree programs: About 2 years, broader coursework
• Many programs offer online coursework with hands-on field practice

Certification and licensing

Credentials prove you know the codes and standards, and in many states, they are mandatory. Requirements vary by state, so check with your state licensing board.

• Common certifications: ICC (building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical), ASHI, InterNACHI
• State license: May require passing an exam or completing supervised inspections

Career paths

• Join local municipalities or building departments
• Work for home inspection firms, insurance companies, or engineering firms
• Run an independent inspection practice
• Specialize in areas like energy efficiency, mold, radon, or commercial inspection

Skills

• Sharp eye for detail
• Strong understanding of building systems and codes
• Clear, honest communication
• Problem-solving mindset
• Integrity (clients rely on your judgment)

Pay

Median annual wage: $74,690 ($35.91/hr).

• Top 10% earn more than $114,200 per year ($54.91/hr)
• Entry-level (bottom 10%): under $47,140 per year ($22.66/hr)
• 25th percentile: $58,860
• 75th percentile: $94,710

Highest-paying states: Alaska (median $102,410), California, Connecticut.

Employment outlook

• Projected growth: -0.8% from 2024 to 2034
• Annual job openings: ~14,800 per year through 2034
• Workers employed nationwide: 146,720 (2025 data)
• State with most workers: Texas (18,230 employed)

Workplace safety

BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses data (2023-2024) report approximately 63 incidents related to this occupation.

Industry organizations

• International Code Council (ICC): Issues building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspector certifications
• American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI): Major home inspector professional association and certification
• International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI): Large home inspector association with certification and training