July 25th, 2022 at 3:14 pm

Multiple Choice Question: Which of the following is a true statement about home inspectors? Pick the best answer:

A. They must be licensed.
B. They can be certified.
C. They can offer their buyer-clients a nice discount on repair services after close of escrow.
D. All of the above. 

Answer: As background, a home inspection is generally defined as a noninvasive, physical examination of a property conducted to identify material defects in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, and the structural and essential components.

Answer A is wrong (so Answer D is wrong too). There is currently no California licensing requirement for home inspectors. That means that clients should be very careful when selecting a home inspector, by checking their qualifications, experience, insurance, bonding, reviews, and other matters.

Answer B is the correct answer. A home inspector can be certified by non-governmental groups, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). ASHI is a membership organization committed to enhancing professionalism among home inspectors, such as by requiring its members to abide by an ASHI Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics.

Answer C is wrong. California law specifically prohibits a home inspector from performing any repair services for a fee within 12 months after preparing a home inspection report for that property.

-Thank you to Stephanie Payab (Encino Office) for suggesting this week’s legal tip!

Copyright© 2022 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP). All rights reserved. Any unauthorized reproduction or use of this material is strictly prohibited. This information is believed to be accurate as of July 25, 2022. It is not intended as a substitute for legal advice in individual situations, and is not intended to nor does it create a standard of care for real estate professionals. Written by Stella Ling, Esq.

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