Home Inspector
What is the work like?
A home inspector (HI) produces home condition reports (HCRs), which are a voluntary part of home information packs (HIP). HIs also produce energy performance certificates (EPCs) which are a compulsory part of the HIP. EPCs, which give properties an A to G rating for energy efficiency and carbon emissions, can be produced by both domestic energy assessors and home inspectors (see separate profile for Domestic Energy Assessor).
There are a number of home condition products available, generally commissioned by the prospective buyer of the property. If the person selling their house chooses to include an HCR, you would:
- examine the inside and outside of a property
- give each part of the building a condition rating based on a set scale
- give reasons for each rating
- recommend further investigation of defects that could be serious
It is strongly advised that you assess the business opportunities in your area before proceeding and making any commitment to a career in this field.
Visit the Home Information Packs website for more information about HIPs and HCRs.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To qualify as a home inspector you would need to achieve the Level 4 Diploma in Home Inspection (DipHI), which is awarded by ABBE (the Awarding Body for the Built Environment) and C & G (City and Guilds). You can find full details on the ABBE and City and Guilds websites.
To get the DipHI you will need to complete:
- a portfolio of work-based evidence that proves your skills and knowledge in all the units in the DipHI
- an exam (see the ABBE website for an example).
The length of time and amount of training you will need to complete the DipHI will depend on how closely you already meet the requirements. For example:
- qualified and experienced residential property surveyors could complete the training in just a few weeks
- if you work in estate agency or property management, but do not carry out surveys, the training will take longer
- if you do not have any experience, you may need to gain a property-related qualification, such as a relevant BTEC HNC/HND, foundation degree or degree before starting the DipHI.
If you just want to produce Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), you can qualify as a domestic energy assessor by doing the Diploma in Domestic Energy Assessment. See the Domestic Energy Assessor profile for more information.
What further training and development can I do?
Before you can work as a home inspector you will need:
- membership of an approved certification scheme
- CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) clearance
- personal indemnity insurance.
See the Asset Skills Energy Assessors website for a list of certification schemes.
After qualifying you will be expected to keep your skills and knowledge up to date by continuing professional development (CPD).
Where can I go for more information?
48 New North Road
Exeter
Devon
EX4 4EP
Helpline: 08000 567160
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
This will vary depending on the demand for home condition reports in your area. Salaries will also depend on length of experience.
What are the hours and working conditions?
This will vary depending on the business opportunities in your area.
Working hours will vary depending on the number of clients you have, and you may have the opportunity to work part time. You may need to carry out inspections in the evenings or at weekends to suit clients.
Your time would be split between inspections on site and writing up reports in the office. You may need to do a lot of travelling to carry out inspections.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a thorough knowledge of construction and surveying methods and building regulations
- the ability to recognise the extent and urgency of construction defects
- the ability to take precise measurements and record inspection details accurately in writing and electronically
- high standards of ethics
- a methodical and consistent approach
- excellent communication and negotiating skills
- awareness of confidentiality and data protection requirements
- a polite, tactful and professional manner.
What opportunities are there?
As a home inspector you could find opportunities with Home Information Pack providers, estate agents producing packs in-house, lawyers (solicitors/conveyancers) producing packs in-house and corporate surveying firms. You may be able to work as a freelance or self-employed home inspector, particularly as homeowners will need inspections to be carried out in the evenings or at weekends.
As a qualified home inspector you could progress to becoming a property valuer by doing the ABBE Level 4 Certificate in Valuation of Residential Property for Secured Lending. See the ABBE website for details.
You could also choose to do further training so that you can produce EPCs for commercial buildings.
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