How to Become a Home Inspector in Montana

Everyone perceives a residence as a secure haven, but for it to evolve into a genuine domicile, it must be inhabited.

Most dwellings undergo scrutiny during their construction or when significant refurbishments are necessary.

When homeowners contemplate selling their property, they typically require the services of a home inspector.

In Montana, the qualifications to become a home inspector are relatively undemanding, making this the right place to explore this career path.

Home Inspector Job Description in Montana

It’s crucial to recognize that a home inspection’s primary purpose is to identify any issues a house might have.

This process distinguishes itself from a home appraisal, which assesses a property’s value based on various factors.

A home inspector in Montana will assess:

• The heating and cooling systems.
• The plumbing.
• The electrical system.
• The roof.
• The foundation.
• For any damage incurred from fire, water, insects, or other environmental factors.

Following the inspection, the inspector must compose a comprehensive report detailing their findings.

This report can significantly impact the property’s appraisal and its potential for a swift sale.

Depending on the structure’s age, a specialized home inspection may be required.

This could involve investigating issues like termites, pests, lead, asbestos, mold, mildew, radon, chimneys, and other relevant elements, often incurring additional fees.

While there are no specific prerequisites for becoming a home inspector in Montana, individuals in this profession must obtain a license.

Completing Your Home Inspector Training in Montana

Home inspectors in Montana are regulated by the state’s Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Aspiring inspectors must complete a 40-hour training program focused on home inspection.

There are several options for training that we’ll explore next.

ICA (Inspection Certification Associates)

ICA offers an online course for individuals seeking to become home inspectors in Montana.

The course costs $695 and comes with various benefits.

One of them is receiving one month of free membership with InterNACHI (National Association of Certified Home Inspectors) after the completion of the course.

Other perks include:

• One year of access to Edcetera Home Inspection,
• No time limit to complete the course,
• A certificate with a certification number

The topics covered by the course include:

• Introduction to the Home Inspection Industry
• Roofing and Rooftops
• Performing Inspections
• Structural Components
• The Plumbing System
• Writing Inspection Reports

InterNACHI School

This well-known institution offers free training courses to members of the association.

The courses are accessible online, ensuring convenience for all interested individuals.

InterNACHI also provides support for marketing and business development to its members.

Other advantages are also included for its members, including possible discounts for insurance policies.

The membership costs $499 per year.

Passing the Licensing Exam as a Home Inspector in Montana

It’s important to note that Montana does not have a state-specific exam for home inspectors.

Instead, candidates should pass the national-level exam, the NHIE, short for National Home Inspector Exam.

This exam consists of 200 questions, with 25 of them not being scored.

The test duration is 4 hours, and it covers topics such as:

• Property and Building Inspection/Site Review
• Analysis of Findings and Reporting
• Professional Responsibilities

The exam fee is approximately $225, varying based on location.

Candidates who do not pass must wait 30 days before attempting again.

The good news is that this exam can be taken online and some consider it optional.

However, before sitting for the test, candidates must meet specific requirements, including completing their education.

Insurance as a Home Inspector in Montana

Home inspectors in Montana are expected to carry various types of insurance.

These insurance policies include:

• An errors and omissions policy of a minimum of $100,000
• A general liability policy of at least $100,000

These policies will set you back some $59 and $40 per month, respectively.

Furthermore, home inspectors need either one of these:

• A workers’ compensation policy
• An Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC)

Montana demands for home inspectors to be part of an association before applying for their licenses.

After completing all the necessary steps, candidates can submit their license application along with the associated $80 fee, which must be notarized.

Both the application and fee can be submitted online.

Once you obtain your license, you have to renew it every two years.

License renewal requires continuing your education by completing 40 hours of such classes.

Home Inspector Salary in Montana

For those considering a career as a home inspector, it’s essential to gauge potential earnings.

In Montana, the median salary for a home inspector is approximately $50,375 per year.

Here’s a breakdown of median salaries in some of the state’s cities:

Home Inspector by State