The process to becoming a home inspector in New Brunswick can take anywhere from 3 weeks up to 6 months.
Applying for the position of an inspector generally entails having experience in the field, having knowledge on how homes are constructed, and possessing adequate education.
The application process includes being interviewed by current inspectors, compiling documents such as licenses, proof of insurance and certifications that you possess in order to prove your qualifications as a licensed home inspector.
You may also be required to have one or more references that can verify your previous home inspection experience.
With hiring done from within the organization, new recruits must have the necessary background and experience required before ever stepping foot into a home equipped with a mystery shopper. After completing the application process, you will be required to attend a three-day training program.
The training course teaches inspectors how to use a home inspection checklist and gives them methods on how to inspect and classify homes.
Proof of insurance coverage is also mandatory in order for an inspector to perform their job duties properly. After completing the training course, new inspectors must then pass an examination before being offered employment.
Aspiring inspectors should remember that being able to pay for the inspection fee is not a requirement for employment with the organization. This goes for if you are self-employed or previously worked for these firms as well. Simply being able to prove that you have prior experience is all it takes.
With hiring done from within the organization, new recruits must have the necessary background and experience required before ever stepping foot into a home equipped with a mystery shopper. After completing the application process, you will be required to attend a three-day training program. The training course teaches inspectors how to use a home inspection checklist and gives them methods on how to inspect and classify homes.
Getting Started on Becoming a Home Inspector in New Brunswick
An inspector should have no less than five years of experience as a home inspector before even considering becoming part of an official organization listed on the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources’s website. If you haven’t had enough time in the field, you can try working for one of the smaller local inspection companies and building up your resume from there.
One of the first steps that you must take before even applying for the position of an inspector is to register with the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources. You may also be required to complete a multi-step background check process where they will evaluate your previous job history as a home inspector. Aspiring inspectors should remember that being able to pay for the inspection fee is not a requirement for employment with the organization. This goes for if you are self-employed or previously worked for these firms as well. Simply being able to prove that you have prior experience is all it takes.
You will choose the location of your inspection site and decide which homes you would like to inspect. Each home must be inspected on a specific agenda within an allotted time period. Choose a time when your inspectors are not busy working another inspection and have time to fully enjoy the surroundings without rushing to get home. Some inspectors also allow their inspectors a little extra time after an appointment has been made in order to take pictures, review documents and take notes.
Some inspectors may also ask their inspector for suggestions on how to correct problems or answer questions about certain issues discovered during the visit.
The Home Inspector typically inspects the exterior of the home by walking along the exterior, checking for any openings and cracks that could indicate possible problems and defects. Sometimes inspectors go through each room in the home and make sure to check every asset located within such as appliances, fireplaces, window treatments and air conditioning units. The inspector will also take note of any damage that has occurred to a home from wear and tear over time.
Inspectors also take pictures of any defects and damages found throughout the home. This can verify that they have inspected every nook and cranny of the home.
The inspector will then typically move on to the basement, first inspecting for mold, mildew and water heaters. The inspector will check for any signs of moisture buildup or moisture damage located at various points throughout the home. Inspectors make sure to check the furnace, hot water heater and air conditioning unit for proper functioning as well as check for carbon monoxide build up within these units. Many inspectors also make sure that their clients understand which day is best to run an electric heater in order to avoid shocks from electric surges from an elevated water heater or furnace’s motor.
The inspector will perform a thorough check of each room in the home, including the attic. They will inspect all rooms of the home, including bathrooms and kitchens. The inspector will also take special care to check for possible leaks coming from faucets and pipes to make sure that there are no signs of mold or mildew growing on any wooden surfaces in these rooms as well as stoves, refrigerators and ovens. Inspectors also check for plumbing leaks by checking underneath sinks and behind toilets to see if there is any leakage or wet patches around these areas.
Inspectors are expected to note down every defect they discover while they are inspecting the home. Inspectors are required by law to give their clients a written report of their findings and the recommendations for any repairs or repair work done.
Inspectors also record any damages they discover in writing as well. In New Brunswick they are required by law to provide customers with a written report that outlines the defects, repairs and recommendations made on the site. Homeowners often rely on these written reports when making anywhere from minor to major decisions with regards to their home, such as the amount of repair work needed or whether or not they will be purchasing any additional warranties for items of concern.
If there is no need for repairs, you can explain why in your report if needed. This can be done in order to help the owner avoid costly repairs later down the road and allow them time to come up with a plan of action.
If you discover more damage then what was previously mentioned, this is something that you must report as well.
The final step for an inspector is to send the client their inspection report and to make sure what they have written in the report is accurate. After completing their inspection, inspectors take a few moments to gather their thoughts and check for any problems that were missed during their visit. Inspectors also check for any repairs that need made or any additional recommendations for home owners before sending them off.
Helpful Tips:
You must be registered with the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources in order to perform inspections. Failure to do so will result in a fine of $475 and possible loss of your license.
Inspector jobs require a high level of education, training and experience. This is only helpful if you have previous experience and are seeking an entry level position within the industry. If you are just starting out, you may want to start out as a gas technician or electrician because these jobs do not involve extensive training or background checks on their own.
Inspectors can expect to earn around $25 hourly for their assignments. The amount of pay will depend on your experience, location, and employer. Your average income will be around $40 per hour.
The work environment of an inspector is usually very hectic and fast paced. A high volume of work is often expected within a short period of time, therefore an inspector may find it hard to fit in a personal life outside of the office environment. You may find that this position could wear you down over time if you are not prepared for the amount of hours it demands from you.
Learn more about becoming a home inspector here.
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