by 
Many individuals perceive a house as a sanctuary, a place where they feel safe and secure.
The process of ensuring that a house is safe and sound often begins with inspections.
These are usually in its construction stage, significant renovations, or when homeowners decide to put their property on the market.
Becoming a home inspector in Oregon is an accessible endeavor with relatively few prerequisites, making it an appealing profession for those looking to enter the field.
Article Table of Contents
The Role of a Home Inspector in Oregon
It’s crucial to distinguish between a home inspection and a home appraisal.
A home appraisal determines the value of a property based on various factors.
A home inspection focuses on identifying potential issues within the house.
In Oregon, a certified home inspector conducts a comprehensive evaluation, including:
- Assessment of the functionality of heating and cooling systems.
- Inspection of plumbing systems.
- Examination of the electrical system.
- Evaluation of the roof’s condition.
- Assessment of the house’s foundation.
- Identification of any damage caused by fire, water, insects, or other environmental factors.
Following the inspection, the inspector compiles a detailed report, a document that can significantly influence the property’s appraisal and the speed of its sale.
Depending on the age of the house or building, a specialized home inspection may be necessary.
This specialized inspection may include assessments for termites, pests, lead, asbestos, mold, radon, chimneys, and other elements, often incurring additional fees.
While there are no extensive prerequisites to becoming a home inspector in Oregon, obtaining a license is mandatory.
Completing Your Home Inspector Training in Oregon
In Oregon, home inspectors are regulated by the state’s Construction Contractors Board.
To embark on this career path, candidates are required to obtain a license first.
For this, they must attend a course that is at least 60 hours long.
The Board also accepts 20 points accumulated from certain study or work experience.
Individuals must check out the state’s point system if they think they qualify for it.
Let’s see which institutions offer appropriate training.
AHIT 
AHIT has 3 packages when it comes to training, priced accordingly.
Two of these packages contain fewer modules than the 3rd one.
As such, the 3rd package has the highest price as well.
All packages allow you to complete the training at your own pace.
Those learning faster can finish the program in 3 weeks.
There are no hidden costs and students will receive plenty of help to pass their licensing exam on the first try.
InterNACHI School 
InterNACHI is an organization with national-level recognition.
Most home inspectors are members of this organization and its members have free access to all the resources it has to offer.
These courses are accessible online, enhancing accessibility for aspiring home inspectors.
Additionally, InterNACHI offers its members various benefits, including support for marketing and business development.
The classes offered by this organization count in the point system of the State of Oregon.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| AHIT | online |
| InterNACHI | online |
Home Inspector Licensing Exam in Oregon
In Oregon, individuals aspiring to become home inspectors must successfully complete the national licensing examination.
This examination is conveniently available for online administration.
The examination will assess knowledge in the following subject areas:
- Property and Building Inspection/Site Review
- Analysis of Findings and Reporting
- Professional Responsibilities
The specific examination fee may vary depending on the candidate’s location.
During the examination, candidates will need to respond to a total of 200 questions within a time frame of 4 hours.
It’s important to note that out of these questions, 25 will not be included in the final scoring.
In the event of an unsuccessful attempt, candidates are obligated to wait for a duration of 30 days before being eligible for a subsequent examination.
Home Inspector License in Oregon
Once you completed your education, accumulated the required points, and passed the exam, you can apply for your license.
The application has to be accompanied by the associated $150 fee.
You don’t have to submit:
- Fingerprints
- A notarized application
- A background check
Be aware that these could be asked by your possible employers or even if you want to start a business on your own.
Those who receive their licenses will have to renew their credentials every 2 years.
This is done only by attending 30 hours of continuing education in that time frame.
Home Inspector Salary in Oregon
It’s natural to be curious about potential earnings when considering a career that requires training and examinations.
In Oregon, the median salary for a home inspector is estimated to be around $55,401 per year.
For a more detailed breakdown of median salaries in cities across the state, refer to the table below.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Adams | $57,986 |
| Lexington | $57,986 |
| Elgin | $57,986 |
| Dayville | $57,816 |
| Beaverton | $57,407 |
| Clackamas | $57,334 |
| Oregon City | $57,187 |
| Boring | $57,187 |
| Hammond | $56,873 |
| Colton | $55,679 |
Regional Salary in Oregon
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bend-Redmond, OR | 60 | $86,500 | $41.59 | $101,090 | $65,550 |
| Corvallis, OR | 30 | $79,250 | $38.1 | $100,670 | $58,140 |
| Eugene, OR | 80 | $78,830 | $37.9 | $99,580 | $59,650 |
| Medford, OR | 50 | $77,980 | $37.49 | $99,750 | $59,650 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | 900 | $85,100 | $40.92 | $113,400 | $61,010 |
| Salem, OR | 110 | $82,510 | $39.67 | $99,160 | $63,020 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a freelance home inspector in Oregon?
The short answer is yes.
You can work on your own, open your own home inspection firm either as a sole proprietor or LLC, or become an employee of an already established firm.
What skills are needed for a home inspector in Oregon?
Here are the most useful skills for this occupation:
- Interpersonal Skills
- A Working Knowledge of Construction
- Self-Motivation
- Attention to details
What other requirements are there to become a home inspector in Oregon?
The minimum requirements to become a home inspector in this state are:
- Minimum age of 18
- High school diploma or GE
- A legal US resident
Read the full guide: How to Become a Home Inspector
Home Inspector by State