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How to Become a Home Inspector in
Becoming a home inspector in Washington is an exciting career transition. To ensure success, consider these steps when it comes to licensing requirements and training.
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Home Inspector Licensing Requirements in Washington
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 Washington.
Licensing Required
Yes
Exam Required
Washington State Home Inspector Exam
Total Education Hours
120
Minimum Age Requirement
No minimum age requirement
Citizenship Requirements
Must be a citizen of the US or a lawfully admitted alien
The Path to Licensure
5 Steps to Get Your Home Inspector License in Washington
01
Complete 120 Hours of Approved Education
Take a Washington State Home Inspectors Board-approved 120-hour Fundamentals of Home Inspection course. The course will provide essential training on the standards and procedures for home inspections. A list of approved courses can be found on the state's website.
02
Complete 40 Hours of Field Training
In addition to classroom learning, you must complete 40 hours of field training under the mentorship of an experienced, licensed home inspector. During this time, you must also conduct at least 5 actual inspections.
03
Gather the Required Documents
Prepare the following:
- Completed Home Inspector Examination Application (if applying by mail).
- Certificate of completion from a Washington State-approved Fundamentals of Home Inspection course.
- A log documenting 40 hours of field training.
04
Apply to Take the Home Inspector Exam
You can apply online through SecureAccess Washington (SAW) or by mail. If applying online, you’ll need to create a SAW account. Once your application is processed, you will receive an approval letter or email with instructions for scheduling your exam.
05
Pass the Home Inspector Exam
The Home Inspector Exam costs $300. Review the Home Inspector Examination Candidate Handbook to prepare. Make sure to bring a photo ID to the exam site, and you will receive your exam results immediately after finishing.
06
Apply for Your Home Inspector License
After passing the exam, apply for your license online via SAW for faster processing or by mail. Submit the following:
- A completed Home Inspector License Application.
- Proof of passing the state and national exams.
- A check or money order for $680 (payable to the Department of Licensing).
Continuing Education Requirements for Home Inspectors in Washington
Hours Required
24 credit hours
Renewal Cycle
Every two years
Additional Requirements: You can renew your license up to 120 days before expiration. There is a $70 late fee if you miss the renewal deadline.
WIN Home Inspection
Kickstart Your Home Inspector Career
If you’re serious about becoming a home inspector in Washington, 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 Washington. This program includes franchise fees, so there are no outside schooling or additional costs. You'll also receive a home inspector certification in Washington 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 Washington?
On average, home inspectors in Washington make about $61,000 per year, with earnings ranging from $33,000 to $101,000 annually depending on experience.
2.
How long does it take to become a home inspector in Washington?
It typically takes 120 hours of classroom training and 40 hours of field inspection training to become a licensed home inspector in Washington.
3.
Do home inspectors have to be licensed in Washington?
Yes, you must be licensed to perform paid home inspections in Washington.