Michigan has no licensing program for home inspectors. In the states where licensing laws have been enacted, there is little evidence that licensing has improved the quality of service to the public. If home inspection were simply a matter of knowing codes and filling out forms, this would not be a problem. However, a good home inspector needs far deeper and broader knowledge than that, in order to grasp complex mechanical issues in homes, understand obsolete systems and methods, and be familiar with the various ways homes age and are abused. And of course, all that knowledge is useless if it isn't clearly communicated to you. So, who are the good guys?
Start with The American Society of Home Inspectors ®. Becoming a member of ASHI isn't easy. It takes verified experience and proven expertise to get Member status. This organization's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics are recognized nationwide. The continuing education required to maintain membership involves a hefty commitment of time and money, each and every year.
Is that a guarantee that every ASHI inspector is a prince? No, it means that by choosing an ASHI inspector, you'll get someone who takes inspection seriously. The people who think inspection is an easy way to make a buck, who think they already know all there is to know, or who do it as a part-time adjunct or retirement pastime are not on the ASHI membership lists. ASHI members are serious about being the best.
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