Thinking about becoming a home inspector in New York? You’re not alone. Home inspection is a growing field with solid earning potential, flexible schedules, and a clear path to getting licensed. Whether you’re changing careers or just curious about how to get started, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step—without the fluff.

We’re focusing specifically on New York State because the licensing process here is more detailed than in many other states. There are state requirements, education mandates, and a hands-on component you’ll need to complete before you’re ready to work. Let’s break it all down so you know what to expect.

Before getting into the licensing steps, it helps to understand what the job involves. A home inspector provides professional opinions about the condition of a home, typically during the buying or selling process. You’re looking at everything from the roof and foundation to plumbing, HVAC systems, and electrical work. It’s not about fixing things—it’s about identifying issues and helping clients understand what they’re getting into.

In New York, your inspection must meet the state’s standards of practice, which cover specific systems and areas you’re required to inspect. Your final report will influence whether someone moves forward with a purchase, asks for repairs, or negotiates a better deal. It’s a big responsibility, and doing it well means building trust with clients and real estate professionals alike.

To become a home inspector in New York, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
  
• Have a high school diploma or GED
  
• Be legally allowed to work in the United States

That’s the easy part. The more involved steps come next.

New York requires you to complete 140 hours of training from a state-approved school. This isn’t something you can skip or shortcut—it’s a requirement to get your license. The training is divided into two parts:

1. Classroom Instruction (100 hours):
   This covers topics like structural systems, roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, interior systems, and how to write inspection reports. You’ll also learn about New York’s specific laws and regulations related to home inspection.
2. Field Training (40 hours):
   This part includes hands-on training under the supervision of a licensed home inspector. You’re required to observe at least 10 actual home inspections as part of this section.

Some of the well-known schools offering approved training in New York include:

• American Home Inspectors Training (AHIT)
  
• Inspection Certification Associates (ICA)
  
• Main Street Success
  

Each program is slightly different, but they all meet the same state requirements. Many offer flexible scheduling, which is helpful if you’re working a full-time job while training.

Once you finish your training, the next step is to pass the state exam. This test is designed to make sure you understand everything you’ve learned, and that you can apply it in the field.

The exam is administered through PSI Exams. It covers areas like:

• Building systems and components
  
• Reporting procedures
  
• Professional practices and ethics
• New York laws

The exam includes multiple-choice questions and requires you to demonstrate a good grasp of home inspection principles. You’ll receive your results immediately after finishing the test.

After passing the exam, you’re ready to apply for your license through the New York State Department of State (Division of Licensing Services). You’ll need to include:

• Your completed application
  
• Proof of completing the 140-hour training
  
• A copy of your passing exam score
  
• A $250 application fee
  

The application is available on the NY Department of State’s website, and you can either mail it in or complete some steps online.

Once you have your license, you can start working. But before you jump in, it’s smart to think about how you’ll structure your business and protect yourself legally.

Most home inspectors work as independent contractors or start their own businesses. In either case, you’ll need:

Errors and Omissions Insurance (E&O):
This protects you in case a client claims you missed something during an inspection. It’s not required in New York, but most professionals strongly recommend it.

General Liability Insurance:
This covers any damage or injury that could happen while you’re inspecting a home.

Business Setup:
You might want to set up an LLC or another legal structure. This depends on your business goals and how you plan to operate. Talk to a business attorney or accountant if you’re not sure what’s best for you.

Now that you’re licensed, the next challenge is getting clients. This often comes down to networking and marketing. Here are a few ways new inspectors get started:

• Work with a licensed inspection company to gain experience
  
• Connect with real estate agents in your area
  
• Create a simple website that explains your services and how to book you
  
• Ask for reviews and referrals from your first few clients
  

Like any small business, it takes time to build momentum. But good service and strong relationships go a long way in this field. Many successful inspectors say their best business comes from repeat agent referrals and word-of-mouth.

Yes. New York requires licensed home inspectors to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years to renew your license. This helps keep you up to date with changes in building codes, inspection technology, and best practices.

Many training schools that offer initial licensing courses also provide continuing education options. You can often complete these online or in short workshops.

Becoming a home inspector in New York isn’t something you do overnight, but it’s a straightforward process if you follow each step carefully. The combination of classroom learning, field experience, and passing the state exam makes sure you’re prepared to do the job well.

It’s a field where you get to work independently, meet new people, and offer a service that really matters during one of the most important decisions someone makes—buying a home. If you enjoy working with your hands, paying attention to detail, and helping people make informed decisions, it might be a great fit.

And once you’re licensed, there’s room to grow—whether you decide to expand your services, bring on a team, or simply enjoy the flexibility of running your own business.