License requirements to be a home inspector

What are the license requirements to be a home inspector in Florida? Starting July 1, 2010 Florida law requires home inspectors to be licensed. The reasoning for this is explained in the Florida law:


Purpose.—The Legislature recognizes that there is a need to require
the licensing of home inspectors and to ensure that consumers of home
inspection services can rely on the competence of home inspectors, as determined
by educational and experience requirements and testing. Therefore,
the Legislature deems it necessary in the interest of the public welfare to
regulate home inspectors in this state. CHAPTER 2007-235


Related Florida real estate view blog posts about home inspections

Hiring a home inspector

Immediately after entering a contract to purchase a home you need to have the home inspected. Hiring the right home inspector will help you determine if there are major problems with the home that need to be corrected prior to closing.

I would suggest interviewing several home inspectors before deciding on the one you will use to inspect the home you are buying. Questions that you should ask your home inspector include:

• The price they will charge.
• Verify that they are licensed by the State.
• Do they have any designations or certifications?
• Are they also licensed in one or more trades/skills such as electrical, contractor, A/C?
• How long does their typical inspection take?
• Do the inspect for termites?
• What state of the art tools do they use when inspecting?
• Do they take pictures of hard to see areas and areas in need of repair?
• What type of guarantee do they offer?
• Do they have references?

Asking the right questions when hiring a home inspector could help you avoid costly repairs after moving into your home or could prevent you from purchasing the home because of it's undisclosed condition issues.

Related Florida real estate views:

What does it mean to buy a house as is?

Have a home inspection before buying

What are the repair obligations to the home seller when using the FAR contract?

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255