On June 4, 2019, new requirements for home inspectors were signed into law in Ohio. They go into effect on April 5, 2020. Whether your home inspector is  a seasoned home inspection professional or new to the industry, he (she) will need to be licensed to practice legally this year.

What Is Ohio’s New Home Inspection Law?

Senate Bill 255, which authorizes the licensure of home inspectors, establishes requirements for education and skill. It also mandates fingerprint-based background checks for all practicing home inspectors.

All new home inspectors now must complete 80 hours of classroom instruction through a recognized education provider. Home inspectors must be at least 18 years of age, possess a valid high school diploma (or equivalent GED), earn a passing score on the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE), and complete 40 hours of field experience. Post-licensure, inspectors must complete 14 extended education hours each year.

Established home inspectors can be grandfathered in under Senate Bill 255 guidelines. To continue as home inspectors they will need to undergo a criminal record check and provide proof of liability insurance. In addition, they’ll need to satisfy at least  three mandated conditions of their choice, such as: 

• Evidence of 200 completed inspections—with proof of client compensation 
• Ownership of an active home inspection business for at least three years
• 80 hours of classroom or online instruction

A proper home inspection should be performed before closing any real estate deal. Archway Home Inspections in Cincinnati, OH, has performed full-service home inspections for more than 17 years. The owner, Jeff Tikkanen, is a licensed home inspector. Visit their website to learn more about their radon mitigation services, or call (513) 871-1473 to schedule an inspection.