Notes From The Field
06.12.2007 | HOME INSPECTOR ASSOCIATIONS
STANDARDS OF PRACTICE & CODE OF ETHICS
I hope that all of you belong to at least one or more home inspector associations. Even if your state has licensing, belonging to a professional association that works hard to promote and forward our profession is important. There is no better way to meet other inspectors, learn new tricks, and advance your education. i-Course strongly recommends attending your local association's monthly meetings. The largest home inspection associations are ASHI, CREIA, NACHI, and NAHI. i-Course currently offers continuing education courses covering the Standards of Practice & Code of Ethics for ASHI, NACHI, and NAHI. As a member of your association you are probably aware of what is covered in these, but when was the last time you sat down and read them?
It is a good idea to read the SOP and COE while comparing them to a copy of inspection report. While reading your report, cross off each section covered in the SOP. When you are done, look for any item not crossed off. If you find one, you now have a new item you need to add to your report. Mentioning each item in your association's SOP is extremely important, especially if there is ever a problem. Most inspection contracts state that you will inspect to the SOP, so having a report that doesn't cover them could leave you open to a claim. We recommend doing your own report review at least twice a year to confirm you meet the SOP's. i-Course is an online Internet source for home inspectors to obtain the training and education they need to maintain their home inspector association's and state education requirements.