Title: How to Become a Home Inspector in Tennessee: Your Step-By-Step Guide

Introduction

If you have an eye for detail, enjoy problem-solving, and are interested in helping homeowners make informed decisions about their homes, becoming a home inspector in Tennessee might be the perfect career for you. Home inspectors play a vital role in the home-buying process by providing thorough assessments of a property’s condition, identifying any issues that could pose safety hazards or financial burdens to potential buyers. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to become a home inspector in Tennessee, including licensing requirements and helpful tips for success.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before embarking on your journey to become a home inspector in Tennessee, it’s essential to ensure that you meet some basic requirements. To obtain your home inspector license, applicants must:

– Be at least 18 years of age
– Hold a high school diploma or an equivalent degree
– Have a valid Social Security number
– Be a US citizen or legally authorized to work in the US

Step 2: Complete an Approved Training Program

To become a licensed home inspector in Tennessee, you must complete a training program approved by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. These programs are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills required to conduct quality home inspections. The Tennessee Board of Home Inspectors requires aspiring home inspectors to complete a 90-hour training course that covers topics such as construction materials and methods, roofing systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems, heating and cooling systems, and report writing.

Step 3: Pass the Required Examinations

After completing your training program, you’ll be required to pass two exams: The National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) and the Tennessee Association of Real Estate Inspectors (TAREI) Jurisprudence Exam. The NHIE is a comprehensive exam that tests your knowledge of home inspection practices, ethical standards, and relevant regulations. The TAREI Jurisprudence Exam focuses on Tennessee-specific rules and regulations governing home inspectors.

To pass the NHIE, you must score at least 500 out of 800 points. For the TAREI Jurisprudence Exam, a passing score will depend on the specific version of the test you take. Both exams can be taken multiple times if you don’t pass on your first attempt.

Step 4: Obtain General Liability Insurance

Tennessee requires licensed home inspectors to carry general liability insurance with coverage of at least $500,000 per occurrence and an aggregate limit of at least $500,000. This insurance helps protect you from liability claims arising from your home inspection activities.

Step 5: Apply for Your License and Pay the Associated Fees

Once you’ve met all the requirements, it’s time to apply for your home inspector license through the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. You’ll need to submit the following along with your application:

– Proof of completion of an approved training program
– Passing scores on the NHIE and TAREI Jurisprudence Exam
– Proof of general liability insurance
– A completed background check form
– A passport-sized photograph
– Payment for the application fee, which is currently $250

Upon approval of your application, you’ll be issued a Tennessee home inspector license, valid for two years. It’s important to note that licensed home inspectors in Tennessee are required to complete 32 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their license.

Conclusion

Becoming a home inspector in Tennessee may require some time and effort, but it’s a rewarding career path for those who enjoy helping others make informed decisions about their homes. By following these steps and ensuring you meet all licensing requirements, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career as a home inspector in Tennessee. Good luck!