Online Home Inspection Course

Program Outcomes

The Home Inspection Course provides theoretical and practical instruction that trains students for entry-level employment in the home inspection industry. Students begin by learning the roles, responsibilities and regulations of home inspection, as well as how home inspection plays an integral role in the real estate industry. Students take a step-by-step journey through the features of a home inspection, including foundations, exterior and interior walls, roofs, electrical systems, plumbing systems, appliances and fixtures, fireplaces and wood stoves, insulation, ventilation, heating and air conditioning systems and exterior structures. They will also learn how to prepare inspection reports, interact with clients and abide by applicable regulations, as well as how to operate a successful home inspection business.

Curriculum

Instruction Pack I: Introduction to Home Inspection, Foundations

Students explore the role of home inspection in the real estate industry and discover the scope of a home inspector’s job, as well as the expected growth of the profession. Then, students delve into the history of house types and styles. In addition, this pack covers construction basics and how to inspect a house’s lot and foundation.

Instruction Pack II: Walls, Roofs and Environmental Concerns

Students continue learning about home construction and inspection—moving “up” the house. Areas covered include frames, roofs, exterior and interior walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, windows and doors. Students then study common environmental concerns that affect the real estate industry and drive home inspection principles. Students also explore green construction, specialization and outsourcing and how each is shaping the future of home inspection.

Instruction Pack III: Electrical Systems, Plumbing and the Interior

Students continue their studies by exploring the following areas: electrical systems, plumbing, kitchens, bathrooms, appliances, fireplaces and wood stoves. Then, they discover tools and technology the home inspector uses on the job.

Instruction Pack IV: Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems; Home Inspection Reports

Instruction Pack IV completes students’ review of residential property with in-depth coverage of insulation, ventilation, moisture management, heating and air conditioning systems, garages, pools and spas and exterior structures. Then, students learn how to prepare professional home inspection reports and estimate repair costs. Students will practice their inspection knowledge with a full-length, exterior, home inspection scenario.

Instruction Pack V: The Business Side of Home Inspection

Instruction Pack V continues the home inspection scenario with a full-length, interior, home inspection. Students round out their inspection knowledge by learning about regulation, licensing, certification, marketing and home business management. Finally, students polish their inspection skills with detailed inspection scenarios.