A certification program can give you the tools to start a home inspection business. However, there are several things that you should consider to ensure you’re getting the most out of your training.

Zarack came to EMITP with substantial marine inspection experience and time served underway. Those qualities, plus a strong work ethic, helped her to excel.

Invest in a good study guide

In the wake of the ongoing national debate over infrastructure and the current state of bridges, there is a growing need for certified inspectors. With the proper training, bridge inspectors can earn a living inspecting and maintaining highway and airfield bridges.

The best home inspection courses will prepare students for professional success by teaching them technical knowledge and business savvy. They will also cover home inspector insurance, how to price their services and niche inspections like mold and radon. Many of the best programs, like the inspector certification program Texas, also offer a variety of formats, including online and in-person education and self-paced study options. Additionally, they will typically cover state licensing requirements for states that require it. This makes them the perfect choice for students preparing to take a state exam.

Create a study schedule

When it comes to studying for the National Home Inspector Exam, a schedule is critical. This will allow you to pass on your first attempt. This will also ensure you have enough time to review the material and focus on the areas you need most.

Creating a study schedule will also help you prioritize your study efforts. You will be able to dedicate more time to the chapters that are most difficult for you to understand, and you can focus on a more manageable number of chapters in one sitting.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to take practice exams that mimic the NHIE format and timing. This will help you learn the best ways to approach each question type.

Take a practice test

Getting a practice test close to the exam can refresh your memory on concepts that may have been covered briefly in class. It can also show you what areas of the exam are your strengths and weaknesses so you can focus on preparing for those.

While studying for the exam, getting enough sleep and eating well is essential. A healthy body can help you retain information, which is critical to passing the national home inspector exam.

During the exam, the online home inspector exam produces a custom evaluation screen that summarizes your areas of strength and weakness. The summary even includes a pie chart. This contrasts with other exams, which provide little or no summary upon completion.

Get a mentor

Having an inspector mentor you can rely on can make a difference in your home inspection success. Many ASHI Members are willing to provide their expertise as home inspection mentors for newer or less experienced home inspectors.

Ask about their professional credentials if you need clarification on whether a home inspector is certified. You can also look online for complaints about the inspector’s work. Also, check whether they have errors and omissions insurance (E&O), which protects them from liability if they make mistakes or overlook something during their inspection.

You should get your business up and running quickly if you’re a newer inspector. In this case, you can use a marketing company that can design your logo and print business cards for you.

Join a study group

Some students need help to study. Joining a study group can motivate students and create a sense of accountability. This can make students more likely to do well in class, on tests, and assignments.

Group work allows students to see things from a different perspective. For example, a textbook section that seems confusing to one student might be straightforward to another. This can save valuable time spent figuring out what needs to be clarified.

Finally, fieldwork is a crucial part of home inspection training that many students must take advantage of. Fieldwork allows students to work with experienced professionals and ask questions that can’t be answered in a classroom.