Blog by Irene Wong & Mike Mulligan

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Home Inspectors Require Licensing

Since April 01, 2009 Home Inspectors performing residential inspections in BC require licensing with Consumer Protection BC. Inspections on commercial properties are exempt. 

Consumer Protection BC information about home inspectors can be viewed here. Home inspectors must currently meet the qualifications of one of the following three associations:

Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) – Provisional Certified House Inspector, Certified House Inspector or Certified Property Inspector

Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI) – Associate Member or Registered Home Inspector

National Certification Program for Home and Property Inspectors – Candidate or National Certificate Holder

*ASTTBC certifies house & property inspectors who, once registered, become members of the BC Institute of Property Inspectors (BCIPI).

The penalty for conducting home inspections without a license is a maximum $5,000.00 fine. Errors & Omissions & General Liabiltiy Insurance as well as a Criminal Record Check are now part of licensing qualifications for all inspectors in BC.  

Ask to see the inspectors wallet-sized license. A list of qualified inspectors is available at the above listed organizations & Home Inspector's credentials can be viewed here at the Consumer Protection BC website.