Licensing of home inspectors only sets a minimum standard. Much like being up to code, any less would be illegal. That's why I have worked to become a member of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). As a NACHI member, I:
- Pass NACHI's Online Inspector Examination every year. This general, not association-specific exam is an industry standard required by NACHI and some state licensing boards,
- Adhere to the industry's largest, most comprehensive Standards of Practice,
- Abide by NACHI's Code of Ethics,
- Follow a strict continuing education policy that requires, among other things, that I receive 24 hours of continuing education each year,
- Have completed NACHI's ethics "obstacle course" which ensures that I am aware of my ethical duties as a home inspector,
- Have passed NACHI's Standards of Practice quiz,
- Have signed and submitted an affidavit legally agreeing that I have and will continue to adhere to all NACHI standards, ethics and education requirements,
- Maintain a continuing education log that is verified by NACHI,
- Submit a portion of my inspection reports to NACHI's report review committee for outside evaluation,
- Am required to successfully complete NACHI's comprehensive Standards of Practice course and examination, Roofing course and examination, Structural course and examination and Electrical course and examination,
- Attend at least one chapter meeting or educational seminar every two years.
- Have access to the Inspector's Quarterly so I can keep up-to-date on all the latest issues in the home inspection industry,
- Have access to a number of learning tools such as inspection tips and technique illustrations, a library of home inspection books and videos, the industry's largest message board, NACHI's "what's new" publication of recent inspection news, Dear NACHI," a detailed advice column, free online courses, quizzes, and exams, and the NACHI University,
- Have access to a time-tested agreement that helps avoid lawsuits,
- Have access to a free report review and mentoring service,
- Have access to the NACHI Mall, and
- Provide access to a free consumer hot-line.
If you need a home inspection performed, don't settle for anything less than a NACHI-certified home inspector.
With over 30 years of combined construction and home inspection experience, CSI offers a superior service to consumers in the State of Iowa.
Michael Pardekooper is a member and is certified by:
ICC-International Code Council in Residential Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing categories.
NACHI-National Association of Certified Home Inspectors,
in Electrical, Roofing, and Structural categories.
City of Des Moines, Certified to perform home inspections on any contract sales within the city limits.
ESA-Environmental Solutions Association, Certified Radon Specialist,
& Certified Indoor Air Quality Technician
IAEI-International Association of Electrical Inspectors / Member
HSFSA-Hawkeye State Fire Safety Association / Member
IBT-International Brotherhood of Teamsters / Member
Unfortunately under current standards, the State of Iowa does not require any type of licensing to become a home inspector. This opens the door for untrained personnel and home inspectors lacking in the knowledge required to perform an adequate whole house inspection. When considering an inspector, be sure to look for nationally and internationally recognized certifications to ensure your getting a home inspector qualified to inspect in all areas of your home.
