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Property Inspector

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April 29, 2024 Updated June 5, 2024 3 minute read

Property inspectors perform detailed inspections of a property, identifying and reporting on any issues that may affect the property's value, safety, or habitability. This information is vital to both buyers and sellers, as it can help them to make informed decisions about the property.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Property inspectors typically have a wide range of responsibilities, which may include:

  • Inspecting properties for structural damage, such as cracks in the foundation, walls, or roof.
  • Identifying potential safety hazards, such as gas leaks, electrical hazards, or fire hazards.
  • Inspecting the property's mechanical systems, such as the heating, cooling, and plumbing systems.
  • Inspecting the property's exterior, including the roof, siding, and landscaping.
  • Inspecting the property's interior, including the walls, ceilings, floors, and cabinetry.
  • Creating a detailed report of the inspection findings, including photographs and other supporting documentation.
  • Answering questions from clients about the inspection findings.

Education and Training

Property inspectors typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may have a college degree in a related field, such as construction, engineering, or architecture. Many property inspectors also complete a formal training program or courses in property inspection. These programs typically cover topics such as building codes, inspection techniques, and report writing.

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Salaries for Property Inspector

City
Median
New York
$67,000
San Francisco
$76,000
Seattle
$106,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$67,000
San Francisco
$76,000
Seattle
$106,000
Austin
$69,000
Toronto
$45,000
London
£42,000
Paris
€31,000
Berlin
€49,000
Tel Aviv
₪76,500
Singapore
S$68,000
Beijing
¥121,000
Shanghai
¥190,000
Bengalaru
₹488,000
Delhi
₹220,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

Path to Property Inspector

Take the first step.
We've curated two courses to help you on your path to Property Inspector. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
Sorted from most relevant to least relevant:

Reading list

We haven't picked any books for this reading list yet.
Widely recognized and comprehensive textbook covering all major home systems and the standards for inspecting them. It is excellent for gaining a broad understanding of home inspection and serves as a foundational text often used in training programs. The third edition includes updated information and guidance on starting a business.
Is an essential resource for any landlord. It provides clear and concise explanations of the laws that govern landlord-tenant relationships, and it includes sample forms and documents that you can use in your own practice.
Focused specifically on electrical systems and the National Electrical Code (NEC), this illustrated guide helps inspectors navigate complex electrical requirements. It's an indispensable tool for understanding electrical safety and identifying common wiring issues in residential settings.
This illustrated guide provides essential code information for residential plumbing and mechanical systems based on the UPC and UMC. It's a practical, easy-to-use reference for inspectors in the field to quickly understand code requirements and spot non-compliant installations in these critical home systems.
Comprehensive guide to property management that covers everything from the basics of finding and screening tenants to the more complex issues of dealing with evictions and foreclosures. It valuable resource for any landlord or property manager.
Comprehensive guide to home inspections, covering everything from the basics of home inspection to advanced topics such as radon testing and mold inspection. Carson Dunlop Canadian company specializing in home and building inspections with over 40 years of experience.
Comprehensive guide to home inspection, covering everything from the basics of home construction to advanced topics such as electrical and plumbing systems. A great choice for someone who wants an in-depth understanding of all aspects of the home inspection process.
A comprehensive manual detailing the inspection of a home's exterior, interior, and electro-mechanical systems. is valuable for both beginners seeking a broad understanding and experienced professionals needing a detailed reference. Its practical approach includes illustrations, worksheets, and checklists.
As the model code adopted by many jurisdictions, the IRC fundamental reference for home inspectors. While not a guide on *how* to inspect, it defines the minimum standards for residential construction. A thorough understanding of the IRC is crucial for identifying deficiencies and provides the basis for much of the inspection criteria.
Comprehensive guide to managing rental properties. It covers everything from finding and screening tenants to collecting rent and handling maintenance issues. It valuable resource for any landlord, regardless of their experience level.
Comprehensive guide to rental property management. It covers everything from finding and screening tenants to collecting rent and handling maintenance issues. It valuable resource for any landlord, regardless of their experience level.
Comprehensive guide to effective property management practices. It covers everything from developing a business plan to marketing your properties and managing your tenants. It valuable resource for any property manager, regardless of their experience level.
Must-read for anyone who is interested in investing in rental properties. It covers everything from finding the right property to financing your investment and managing your tenants.
Comprehensive guide to property management that covers everything from the basics of finding and screening tenants to the more complex issues of dealing with evictions and foreclosures. It valuable resource for any landlord or property manager.
Comprehensive guide to managing rental properties. It covers everything from finding and screening tenants to collecting rent and handling maintenance issues. It valuable resource for any landlord or property manager.
Authored by experts from the Code Check series, this book offers a detailed and systematic approach to inspecting electrical systems in existing homes. It delves deeper into the application of the NEC for inspections and provides historical context for code changes, making it valuable for deepening understanding of electrical inspections.
Considered a foundational book in the field, this guide provides a comprehensive approach to performing a whole house inspection. It covers evaluating major systems, distinguishing structural issues from cosmetic ones, and identifying environmental hazards. It is useful for gaining a broad understanding and deepening knowledge.
This illustrated reference book provides a detailed overview of residential construction and operating principles for various home systems. It's an excellent resource for building foundational knowledge and serves as a practical guide for understanding how homes are built and function. It is widely used by inspectors and homeowners alike.
Practical guide to renting out your property successfully. It covers everything from finding and screening tenants to collecting rent and handling maintenance issues. It valuable resource for any landlord, regardless of their experience level.
Practical guide to maximizing your rental income. It covers everything from finding and screening tenants to collecting rent and handling maintenance issues. It valuable resource for any landlord, regardless of their experience level.
This guide from the NAHB outlines performance expectations for residential construction, often used to manage warranty issues. It's a valuable reference for home inspectors to understand industry standards for acceptable performance and provides context for evaluating the significance of observed conditions during an inspection.
Provides a comprehensive overview of property management, covering everything from finding and screening tenants to collecting rent and handling maintenance issues. It great resource for anyone who is new to property management or who wants to brush up on their skills.
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