Program Outline
Here's how it works
Your program consists of courses designed to take you step-by-step through the techniques and skills you'll employ in your new career as a Home Inspector. Your first course will be accessible to you as soon as your enrollment has been accepted. Other courses will follow as you complete your exams, so that you will always have training materials to work with. Not all courses require textbooks; some use electronic instructional material.
HI100 — The Inspection Process
Introduction to the inspection process; the concept of disclosure; identifying clients and sources of referrals; inspector qualifications; employment opportunities and related occupations; pre-inspection agreements; data collection and types of reporting formats; building codes and code enforcement officials; professional standards and practices; tools of the trade.
HI101 — Structural Design
Introduction to structural systems and types of framing; detailed study of architectural building styles; multifamily housing; using house plans in home inspections; the structure inspection; basements and crawl spaces; doors and windows; interior walls and ceilings; floors; stairways; attics; house ventilation.
HI102 — Exterior Inspections
Inspecting the site; foundation and footings; types of roofing and flashings; chimneys; walkways; entrances and stairways; decks and porches; driveways and patios; carports and garages; exterior walls, windows, and doors.
HI103 — Electrical Inspections
Electrical theory and terms; wire types and sizes; service entrances and main panel boxes; circuits and receptacles; standards of electrical inspections; inspecting services, panel boxes, and circuits; inspecting receptacles; safety concerns and electrical hazards.
HI104 — Mechanical Inspections
Introduction to heating systems; forced air and hydronic heating systems; heat pumps; fireplaces; other heating alternatives, such as electric, radiant, and solar heating systems; introduction to plumbing systems; water supply and piping systems; drainage and waste disposal; fixtures; water heaters; inspecting plumbing systems.
HI105 — Interior Inspections
Interior inspection standards; kitchens and their appliances; laundries; bathrooms and their fixtures; insulation and vapor barriers; safety and security devices; smoke detectors; indoor air quality issues, such as mold, radon, and asbestos.
HI106 — Professional Practices
Starting a home inspection business; financial considerations; insurances; licensing; keeping business records; marketing and advertising; maintaining a professional image; professional associations; preparing for certification examinations. (Required textbook provided with course.)
Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School.
We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.
Some states require certification or licensing for Home Inspectors. Please check with your state and local agencies regarding qualification requirements.