Requirements To Become a Home Inspector in Florida
In Florida alone, there are 22,359,251 people, and that number continues to grow! Florida is one of the fastest-growing states; with that, there are plenty of opportunities to become a home inspector.
If you’ve thought about becoming a home inspector, you might wonder what the requirements are in Florida. While it can seem challenging to navigate, it doesn’t have to be! Read this guide on Florida home inspector license requirements today.
Requirements for a Home Inspector in Florida
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requires you to complete 120 hours of state-approved pre-license training. You will also need to pass a state-approved exam and submit a license application.
Examination Requirements
Gold Coast School of Construction offers students an opportunity to sit for an open-book, state-approved Home Inspector exam required for licensure. This exam is comprised of 100 questions with 2 hours to complete – passing score required is 70% or above. You can take this proctored exam on-campus or online, and Gold Coast offers a 1-Day Home Inspector Exam Prep Workshop to get you prepared for the test. Contact Gold Coast for prices, dates and times of upcoming workshops and exams.
Commercial General Liability Insurance
You’ll need commercial general liability insurance of at least $300,000. The price could vary based on coverage needs. To get the best rate, speak with a licensed local insurance agent who works with other home inspectors.
Background Checks
Home inspector license requirements include fingerprints and a background check. The state reviews applications on a case-by-case basis.
Even if you have a criminal record, it doesn’t mean you’ll be excluded. It might just require extra paperwork.
Experience
You’ll need to complete a pre-licensing course approved by the department.
The 120-hour program must include review of the following components of a home:
- HVAC
- Home structures
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Roof
- Home site conditions
- Interiors and exteriors
Register Your Business
Once you complete the 120-hour course and pass your state exam, you’ll want to have all required information available to complete your license application.
Information should include the following:
- Proof of insurance
- Application fee
- Fingerprints
- Insurance
- Proof of education
- Exam results
You’ll need to contact the Florida Department of Revenue to inquire about registration. Florida has various rules about sales and uses tax, corporate income, and re-employment tax.
Continuing Education
In the State of Florida, licensed Home Inspectors must renew their license every two years and complete 14 hours of approved continuing education, including a 2-hour wind mitigation requirement. It’s vital to stay up-to-date on CE renewal and home inspection education requirements.
Requirements for a Home Inspector
You’ll need to complete a 120-hour pre-licensing home inspection course and pass a state-approved exam. There are no educational or experience requirements. Afterward, you will need to submit a completed application to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) under the authority of the Florida Home Inspector Licensing Board.
The Examination
The state exam is comprised of 100 questions, requiring 70% or above to pass. There’s also a fee to sit for the examination. If you don’t pass, you’re allowed to retake the test. There will be a fee each time you sit for the exam.
Questions will be randomized so that the test isn’t the same each time. Once you pass, you’ll need to send evidence to the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Next, you’ll apply for your license.
Submit Your Application
You could submit your application online or send in a paper copy with attached documentation. The application will go to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
There’s a registration fee when you apply for an initial license. There may be some waivers available for the application fee if you qualify – verify with the DBPR before submitting your application.
What To Expect as a Florida Home Inspector
After becoming a Florida home inspector, you’ll need to buy high-quality inspection tools and equipment. These include a ladder, a thermal imaging camera, and a moisture meter.
Next, you’ll need to join a home inspector association. This helps you network with other home inspectors in the area. It also enables you to stay up-to-date on the latest industry news and on any industry changes. This helps you provide the best service to your clients. Read industry-related articles, take continuing education courses, and attend home inspector conferences.
Understanding Florida Home Inspector License Requirements
After exploring this guide, you should better understand the Florida home inspector license requirements. Take your time studying for the exam and ensure you have the necessary requirements.
Once you receive your license, don’t stop there; stay up-to-date on continuing education. This will help you to stay current in your licenses. Then you can decide whether to start your own business or work for another company while you learn the ropes.
Are you ready to start as a home inspector and want a program to prepare you for the exam and complete the pre-licensing requirements? Then check out our other various programs today to get started.
If you have any questions along the way, we’re happy to help. We also offer continuing education programs to help you prepare for renewing your licenses. From real estate to contractor license preparation, we have Floridians covered to help them prepare.