How to Become a Home Inspector in Rhode Island

For most people, a house represents a sanctuary, a place of security and comfort.

Yet, a house truly becomes a home when it’s lived in.

Often, the journey to ensure that a house is safe and sound begins with inspections, whether during its construction, significant renovations, or when homeowners decide to list their property.

For those contemplating a career as a home inspector in Rhode Island, the path is quite accessible, with relatively minimal prerequisites, making it an appealing choice for aspiring professionals.

The Role of a Home Inspector in Rhode Island

It’s crucial to differentiate between a home inspection and a home appraisal.

A home inspection primarily focuses on identifying potential issues within the house, while a home appraisal aims to determine a property’s value based on a variety of factors.

Certified home inspectors from Rhode Island conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the house.

They usually perform:

• An assessment of the functionality of heating and cooling systems.
• An inspection of plumbing systems.
• An examination of the electrical system.
• An evaluation of the roof’s condition.
• An assessment of the house’s foundation.
• The identification of any damage caused by fire, water, insects, or other environmental factors.

Following the examination, the inspector compiles a detailed report, a document that can significantly influence the property’s appraisal and the expeditiousness of its sale.

Those who want to buy an older building are advised to ask for a specialized inspection, even if it costs more.

Such specialized inspections may encompass assessments for termites, pests, lead, asbestos, mold, radon, chimneys, and other elements.

While there are no extensive prerequisites for becoming a home inspector in Rhode Island, obtaining a license is obligatory.

Home Inspector Training in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, home inspectors are regulated by the Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board.

Future home inspectors don’t need to undergo any training in this state, however, by doing so, they increase their chances of passing the NHIE.

ICA

ICA’s course is priced at $695 and includes several valuable benefits for students:

• Free report-writing software
• One-month membership with InterNACHI
• One-year access to Edcetera Home Inspection (usually valued at $99)
• Flexibility in course completion
• Certification
• Mandatory practice hours for licensing

InterNACHI School

The InterNACHI School is a top pick for aspiring home inspectors.

Nearly all future home inspectors choose to join InterNACHI.

Membership costs $499 annually or $49 monthly.

InterNACHI provides its members with many advantages, such as help with marketing and business growth.

Members also receive exclusive perks:

• Significant insurance discounts.
• Free access to the House of Horrors, of which there are only two in the entire country, requiring appointments.

In these facilities, members can test inspection tools, attend meetings, and gain valuable experiences.

InterNACHI continues to offer various benefits, including marketing and business development support.

Home Inspector Licensing Exam in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, there is no state-specific licensing exam for home inspectors.

Candidates must successfully complete the NHIE or the National Home Inspection Exam.

Passing this exam became mandatory at the beginning of 2020.

Nevertheless, certain prerequisites must be met before sitting for the exam:

• 100 documented home inspections
• Business ID# with date of incorporation for Corporations and Limited Liability Companies

The exam is available online and covers the next topics:

• Property and Building Inspection/Site Review
• Analysis of Findings and Reporting
• Professional Responsibilities

The exam fee differs by location.

Candidates must respond to 200 questions within a 4-hour window.

Notably, 25 questions are not factored into the scoring.

Failure necessitates a 30-day waiting period before a reattempt.

Licensing through reciprocity is also accepted.

The license must be obtained in a state where the requirements for licensure are similar to those in Rhode Island.

Home Inspector Insurance in Rhode Island

Home inspectors in Rhode Island are obligated to carry insurance coverage while practicing.

Several types of insurance are compulsory:

• Certificate of Errors and Omissions Insurance – of minimum $500,00
• Certificate of Worker’s Compensation Insurance
• Certificate of Liability Insurance – of minimum $500,000

Following the completion of these steps, candidates can submit their license application along with the associated fee.

The fee for the license is $200.

The license will expire after 2 years.

To renew your license, you’ll have to complete 12 hours of continuing education.

Home Inspector Salary in Rhode Island

It’s natural to be inquisitive about potential earnings when considering a career that involves training and examinations.

In Rhode Island, the median salary for a home inspector is estimated to be approximately $57,748 per year.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of median salaries in cities across the state, please consult the table below.

Regional Salary in Rhode Island

Home Inspector by State