You have recently been crunching the numbers, negotiating offers, adding up closing costs, shopping for mortgages, and trying to get the best deals. Don’t stop now. Don’t let your real estate agent or anyone else talk you into skimping here.  InterNACHI-certified inspectors perform the best inspections by far.

The licensing of home inspectors only sets a minimum standard. Even though required in the state of North Carolina, being licensed is really only akin to the price of admission.  Much like being up to code, any less would be illegal.  Imaginary people, children, psychics (who claim to “sense” if a house is OK), and even pets can theoretically be home inspectors.  InterNACHI, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, front-ends its membership requirements.

InterNACHI inspectors must:

• Pass InterNACHI’s Online Inspector Examination, and re-take and pass it every three years
• Complete InterNACHI’s online Code of Ethics Course
• Take InterNACHI’s online Standards of Practice Course
• Submit a signed Membership Affidavit
• Carry E&O Insurance (also required by NC Home Inspector Licensing Board);
• Adhere to InterNACHI’s Standards of Practice
• Abide by InterNACHI’s Code of Ethics
• Submit four mock inspection reports to InterNACHI’s Report Review Committee before performing their first paid home inspection for a client if the candidate has never performed a fee-paid home inspection previously
• Within the first year of membership, Inspectors must successfully pass the following accredited courses and exams provided through InterNACHI:
  • “Safe Practices for the Home Inspector”
  • “25 Standards Every Inspector Should Know”
  • “Residential Plumbing Overview for Inspectors”
  • “How to Perform Residential Electrical Inspections”
  • “How to Perform Roof Inspections”
  • “How to Inspect HVAC Systems”
  • “Structural Issues for Home Inspectors”
  • “How to Perform Exterior Inspections”
  • “How to Inspect the Attic, Insulation, Ventilation, and Interior”
  • “How to Perform Deck Inspections”
  • “How to Inspect for Moisture Intrusion”
  • “How to Inspect Fireplaces, Stoves, and Chimneys”
• Pursue inspection-related training by taking 24 hours of additional accredited Continuing Education each year
• Maintain Online Continuing Education Log, per InterNACHI’s rigorous Continuing Education policy

All InterNACHI Certified Inspectors have access to:

• Global Message Board for exchanging information and tips with colleagues and experts
• “What’s New” section so that they can keep up with the latest news and events in the inspection industry
• Time-tested Inspection Agreement, which keeps them (and you) away from lawsuits
• Report Review/Mentoring Services
• Real estate agent Hold-Harmless Clause
• Many other benefits, training, marketing tools, and information to help themselves, as well as consumers and real estate professionals.