The career path of a home inspector is highly regulated in Nevada to protect consumers in its robust property market. Becoming a licensed Inspector of Structures requires navigating a clear, multi-step process governed by the Nevada Real Estate Division (NRED). This journey involves meeting specific personal qualifications, completing academic and practical training, passing state examinations, and maintaining continuous compliance.
Meeting the Basic Prerequisites
Certification begins by satisfying personal requirements set forth by the state. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED.
The state mandates a thorough background check to ensure public trust in the profession. Applicants must submit a background waiver and undergo fingerprinting processed by an approved vendor to clear the individual for state licensure. These requirements confirm the applicant’s general eligibility as defined in the Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) 645D.
Completing Mandatory Pre-Licensing Education
The academic component requires candidates to complete a minimum of 40 hours of instruction from a Nevada Real Estate Division-approved provider. The approved curriculum focuses on subjects related to structural inspections, including roofing systems, electrical components, plumbing, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units.
A practical experience component is also required. Applicants must observe at least 25 home inspections performed under the direct supervision of a certified General or Master Inspector. This training allows the prospective inspector to practice generating inspection reports according to the state’s standards of practice. The applicant must maintain a log of these observed inspections as official proof of field experience.
Passing the Required Licensing Examinations
Demonstrating competency requires passing the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE), the nationally recognized standard for the profession. This comprehensive test covers the core competencies of home inspection, including technical knowledge of major house systems and reporting methods.
The NHIE consists of approximately 200 multiple-choice questions administered over a four-hour period. A passing score is required before the license application can proceed. The state also mandates passing an “Inspector of Structures” examination approved by the Division. Candidates are responsible for the registration process and the associated fee, which typically costs around $225 per attempt.
Submitting the Official License Application
After educational and examination requirements are met, applicants must compile and submit a complete application packet, generally using Nevada Real Estate Division Form 573. This submission requires providing proof of mandatory professional insurance coverage.
Nevada law requires applicants to carry at least $100,000 in Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance and $100,000 in General Liability insurance. The insurance documents must list the applicant’s personal name. The packet must also include the pre-licensing course certificate, the passing NHIE score report (dated within 12 months), the fingerprint verification form, and the required $365 application fee.
Maintaining Your Nevada Home Inspector License
Licenses in Nevada operate on a biennial renewal cycle, meaning inspectors must renew their certification every two years based on their initial licensure date. This renewal is contingent upon completing a minimum of 20 hours of approved Continuing Education (CE) during each two-year period.
The mandated CE hours must include specific topics to ensure inspectors remain current on regulatory matters. Specifically, the 20 hours must incorporate at least three hours of instruction on issues related to the safety of inhabitants and the inspector conducting the inspection. Furthermore, two hours must be dedicated to instruction on the provisions of Nevada law, specifically NAC Chapter 645D and NRS Chapter 645D. The biennial renewal also requires submitting a copy of the continuously maintained insurance policies and an associated renewal fee, which is currently around $265.
Establishing Your Home Inspection Business
Once licensed, the focus shifts to structuring and launching the business entity. This involves deciding on the legal framework, such as registering as a sole proprietorship or Limited Liability Company (LLC), and obtaining necessary local business licenses and permits.
Acquiring appropriate inspection tools and report-writing software is necessary to deliver professional services. Marketing strategies are also important, requiring the inspector to establish referral relationships with real estate agents and develop a strong online presence.