Introduction to Home Inspection Training

Are you considering entering the home inspection profession?. If you are a contractor, did you know grandfathering for licensed contractors in Florida expires in March of 2012, and all contractors have to do to become a home inspector is simply apply?. Yes, simply complete the application documents.

Inspection Depot however has designed a fast track introduction to home inspection, especially for those grandfathered inspectors, to prevent them from making costly mistakes. Our program covers the principles every inspector should know, to make sure inspectors are conducting inspections correctly, reporting properly and covering the liability of both the client and themselves. Each module of this course is a detailed overview of the most common defects associated with homes in Florida, with hundreds of photographs, graphics and aids to augment the learning experience.

Remember the cost of this training program is approximately the cost of an inspection conducted by a veteran home inspector in Florida today, but far less than the cost of an incorrectly completed inspection!!!

Click here to see fees associated with this training program.

At the end of this program, Inspection Depot will assist all students with their licensing application process to ensure you do not miss the grandfathering expiry dates.

To register for this training program Click here.

Course Outline for Intro to Home Inspection Training

Module 1: Inspection techniques and methods

This is an introduction to the inspection techniques and methods used by inspectors in the field every day. This introduction sets the stage for each section of the course hereafter and how inspectors use definitive measuring devices and sensory observations during an inspection to identify risks associated with each home they inspect. A detailed review of inspection agreements and liability of everyday inspectors is covered.

Module 2: Building structures and analysis

This training module covers defect identification and inspection reporting requirements in the following areas:

Good construction methods and types of homes. Foundations, columns, exterior surfaces; sidings, flashings and trim. Basements, crawlspaces, including evaluation of insulation and ventilation. Slab on grade construction and components.

Module 3: Exterior systems and components

This module covers defect identification and inspection reporting in the following areas:

Stucco vs. EIFS; brickwork vs. block work; siding composites/wood; Moisture intrusion; caulking & sealants; flashings; grading/French drains. Review of Hurricane Protection Devices Evaluation and Diagnosis of Technical Defects Noted on Exterior Finishes and Surfaces to include moisture damage, installation practices, manufacturing defects, wood boring issues.

Module 4: Roofing systems and components

Roof Coverings, Flashings, Gutters and Downspouts

This module covers defect identification and inspection reporting in the following areas:

Roof structures, styles, shapes and sloped roof covering materials; Chimneys, skylights and roof penetrations; Requirement to report on the method used to observe the roof covering(s); Defect recognition and life expectancies, liability concerns; Built-up and flat roof analysis; Roof soffits, fascias and ventilation; Roof framing, sheathing, insulation and ventilation, signs of leaks/condensation; Attic inspection, framing; Fire-resistant treated plywood (FRT) sheathing; Gable Bracing; wind mitigation components and considerations; Diagnosing moisture signs, Report writing. Demonstrations and practices throughout the day.

Module 5: Plumbing systems and components

Plumbing Systems

This module covers the defect identification and inspection reporting in the following areas:

Water supply/wells: interior supply and distribution piping, installation and materials; fixtures and faucets including functional flow and drainage; leaks and cross connections. Drain, waste and vent systems including materials, supports, and insulation. Water heaters: types, age, and fuel source, normal operating and safety controls. Chimneys, flues, and vents. Bathrooms/shower pans. Private waste disposal systems. Evaluation and diagnosis of common plumbing defects including installation defects, manufacturer defects, aging defects and the cause and effect of each.

Module 6: Electrical systems and components

This module covers defect identification and inspection reporting in the following areas:

Determining amperage and voltage: service entrance conductors and equipment. Main and distribution panels and location: system grounding type and means. Evaluate the type and presence of over current protection devices. Branch wiring evaluation: light fixtures, switches, outlets. Evaluation of conductors: polarity, grounding, GFCI device if present. Aluminum branch circuit wiring, advanced electrical systems. Evaluation and diagnosis of electrical deficiencies for residential construction including installation practices, manufacturing deficiencies, aging characteristics and safety hazards. Report writing, demonstration and applications.

Module 7: HVAC systems and componants

Identification of the most common defects associated with HVAC systems, ductwork and supporting electrical services. This module will also review the typical testing procedures and inspection reporting requirements. Based on the time constraints of this program a focus on straight cool split systems and heat pump systems, with respective components is covered.

Module 8: Interior systems and components

This module covers defect identification in the following areas:

Environmental concerns: asbestos, urea formaldehyde. Walls, ceilings and floors including evaluation of fire separation at attached garage/house. Windows and doors, steps, stairs, balconies and railings. Countertops and cabinets. Evaluation and diagnosis of building deficiencies for residential construction including installation, practices, manufacturing deficiencies, aging characteristics and safety hazards.

Module 9: Systems and appliances

This module covers defect identification and the inspection methods and reporting in the following areas:

Evaluate built-in kitchen appliances, sprinkler systems, garage doors-openers, safety, etc. Detection of little-known problems. High claim concerns: when you should and should not inspect.

14 Hour Introduction to Home Inspection Training Schedule

April Training

Location	Date	Hours	Fees
TBD	TBD	14	$400 (if paid one month in advance) $495 (if not paid in advance or at the door)