How to Become a Home Inspector in Canada

Learn what it takes to become a housing inspector in Canada.

Home inspection is an unregulated profession in all Canadian provinces except British Columbia. This means you or anyone can call himself a home inspector without formal education or licensing. However, you are responsible for the advice you provide a client and can be sued for any negative outcomes. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation recommends hiring a professional home inspector who is certified by the Canadian Associatoin of Home Inspectors. (See reference 1) Therefore, if you want to be a successful home inspector, it is important to get the right training and certification.

Instructions

1. Educate yourself. You need to have extensive knowledge of construction technology and construction law and regulations, and the communication skills to share your expertise with your clients. There are various courses that provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a home inspector in Canada. The Capilano University in British Columbia provides home inspection training courses that are accredited by the National Certification Program for Canadian Home and Property Inspectors. (See reference 2). Sheridan College of Continuing Education has courses in home inspecting; some of which can be taken online. (See reference 3)

2. Get certified. Although this is only required in British Columbia, other provinces might soon follow suit, according to the Home Inspectors Institute. (See reference 4) In any case, certification will provide you with more credibility and attract more customers. British Columbia requires an applicant for a home inspector license to be certified by any of the following institutions: The Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors, the National Certification Program for Canadian Home and Property Inspectors or the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia.

3. Buy errors and omissions insurance. You can get sued for any mistakes or bad advice you give your clients.

4. Start working. Carrying out a thorough home inspection requires experience in electrical, heating, roofing and structure inspections, so you may want to work with a seasoned inspector first. Join a home inspection company and get experience while you work..

References

• Canada Mortgage And Housing Corporation: Hiring A Home Inspector
• Capilano University: Home Inspection Training Courses
• Sheridan College: Home Inspection Training Program
• The Home Inspectors Institute

Resources

• Canadian Association Of Home & Property Inspectors