GETTING STARTED
ABOUT THE HOME INSPECTION INDUSTRY
The Home Inspection Industry is one of the fastest growing professions in North America. Increased consumer awareness, increased liability, the "leaky condo syndrome" and the growing consumer demand for qualified information have propelled the BC home inspection industry into the spotlight of the late 1990's.
The Home Inspector performs a very important service to the consumer.
To be a competent and professional home inspector you must be a fully trained generalist able to understand how the systems/components found in a home perform and mature over time. These systems include items such as: structural components, exterior components, roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning, interior, insulation and ventilation.
The home inspector must be able to effectively report his findings to the customer. The inspection report must conform to the CAHPI(BC) Standards of Practice.
Public relations is an important part of the home inspection business. In addition to providing a quality report, you must be able to promote your business and respond well to enquiries. Good communication and interpersonal skills are definite assets.
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TRAINING AND EDUCATION
Home inspectors come from varied related fields. Some are Engineers, Architects, Engineering & Architectural Technologists/Technicians, or Building Code Officials. Many home inspectors come directly from the trades such as plumbers, electricians, carpenters, general contractors, etc. Some just have a keen aptitude, interest and willingness to learn the home inspection industry.
Notwithstanding your past work experience, to join CAHPI(BC) you must pass a series of seven examinations that will test your knowledge of the different systems/components found in a home. While the Home Study Program is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Those who take the program routinely score between 80-100% on the CAHPI(BC) Exams.
The Home Study Program can be ordered in a variety of fashions: with or without videos and technical support, or by the individual modules. Please Note: To have Carson Dunlop mark your course exams (different from the CAHPI(BC) exams) you must purchase the Technical Support.
Home Study Course
- Courses are not compulsory but if you wish to take a course, CAHPI(BC) does offer an excellent Home Study Brochure. If you require further assistance, please Contact us for more details.
- A Home Study Order Form is included in our Application Kit.
- If you prefer a classroom training environment, please contact the CAHPI(BC) office for information.
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INVESTING IN THE BUSINESS
Start up costs
Budget for an initial capital investment sufficient to cover the cost of joining CAHPI (BC), training and examinations costs, purchasing computer hardware & software, printing costs for company stationary (business cards, brochures, letterhead), company name registration, franchise/incorporation/legal fees, reporting systems, and buying tools.
Ongoing operation expenses include telephone, cellular, automobile operating costs, insurance, marketing/advertising (Yellow Pages, website), accounting, educational upgrades, CAHPI(BC) membership renewal and office supplies.
You may wish to have personalized business attire or labels for your vehicle.
Tools of the trade
A good set of eyes, a keen sense of smell and a lot of common sense.
It's not the quantity but the quality of your tools that makes all of the difference. The basic tools of the trade are: ladder, moisture meter, electrical tester, screwdriver, a good flashlight, mirrors, awl and water pressure gauge.
Other handy tools include: CO detector gauge, heat ray sensor gun or other specialized tools.
Selecting a Reporting System
A variety of reporting systems are available for purchase. It is your responsibility to buy a reporting system that complies with the CAHPI(BC) Standards of Practice and one that suits your working habits.
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