Certification Process

There are two stages to the National Certification Program's requirements which have been adopted by PHPIC.

1. Candidate: The entry point and first step into PHPIC for evaluation and verification of your credentials.

2. PHPI: Full members of PHPIC and certified National Home Inspectors: (The completion of the National Certification Program's criteria).

Note - Maintaining Candidate status: after two years, Candidates who have not become full members must reapply to retain their Candidate status.


Mandatory requirements to become a full member are:

• Complete a minimum of 200 hours of academic training courses specific to home and property inspection from an accredited institution. To see the list of accredited institutions click here

• Pass all training course exams

• Complete a minimum of 75 hours of practical field training

• Perform a minimum of 150 fee paid home and property inspection or approved mentored inspections as a Candidate, using an inspection system that complies with ASHI or PHPIC's Standard of Practice

• Be in the home inspection business for one year

• Successfully pass the NHICC National Home Inspection Exam (80%)

• Pass one test inspection of a house with known defects, and have them reviewed by a peer (TIPR)

• Signed agreement to comply with standards of practice and code of ethics

It is also recommended (though not a requirement for certification) that applicants should have a high school diploma and two years of practical experience in residential construction or renovation plus one or more of:  

• A diploma or degree program in a building science

• A journeyperson provincial or Red Seal trade ticket in construction trade

• Substantial work experience in residential construction or renovation, or equivalent work experience

To maintain your PHPI status, inspectors must:
Complete a minimum of 20 hours each year of continuing education through any of the following:

• Technical courses or workshops directly related to home and property inspection profession

• Courses in law, ethics, business practices, communication, conflict resolution, or other relevant subjects, or

• Service to the National Board, Committees, Certification Body or Chapters

Note:

• ½ of your credits must be from education.

• Payment of annual renewal fees by July 1st each year

• PHPI full members must maintain their National Home Inspector certificate in good standing

• Complete one TIPR every five years

• Continue to comply with the PHPIC's Code of Ethics and Standard of Practice