How Home Inspection Standards Guide Professional Inspections

Home inspections are a crucial step in protecting the safety, functionality, and value of a property. Professional inspectors follow state-required minimum standards of practice, and often supplement them with guidance from organizations such as ASHI and InterNACHI. These standards help ensure inspections are thorough, consistent, and protective of consumers.

---

What Is ASHI?

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), founded in 1976, is one of the most respected home inspection organizations in the U.S. Its Standards of Practice provide guidance for conducting comprehensive inspections.

 

Key Points:

 

• Scope & Purpose: Visual examination of the structure and systems.
• Systematic Coverage: Structural components, roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, interiors, insulation, and fireplaces.
• Limitations & Exclusions: Cosmetic issues or code compliance are not included.
• Code of Ethics: Ensures objectivity and avoids conflicts of interest.

ASHI standards are regularly updated and often referenced in state regulations, providing inspectors with guidance that complements legally required practices.

What Is InterNACHI?

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) is the world’s largest network of property inspectors. It provides a globally recognized Standards of Practice, a Code of Ethics, and training programs.

 

Highlights:

 

• Non-Invasive Inspections: Focused on visual assessments of accessible areas.
• Defined Scope: Roof, exterior, foundation, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, insulation, and interiors.
• Material Defects: Identifies issues affecting value or safety.
• Limitations & Exclusions: Concealed defects or life expectancy predictions are not included.

InterNACHI standards are designed to enhance state-required inspections, providing additional structure and guidance.

Why Standards Matter

Following established standards helps:

 

• Protect Consumers: Ensures inspections are thorough and unbiased.
• Professionalize the Industry: Supports certification, ongoing education, and ethical practices.
• Clarify Scope: Helps inspectors and clients understand what is included—and excluded—in an inspection.
• Meet Legal Requirements: State standards set the baseline for all inspections, and additional industry standards help ensure no detail is overlooked.

At ProTec, our inspections follow all state-required minimum standards of practice, while also incorporating industry best practices from ASHI and InterNACHI. This combination ensures inspections are both compliant and highly detailed.

Why Choose ProTec Inspection Services?

Founded in 1986, ProTec has completed over 80,000 inspections and earned more than 4,500 five-star reviews.

 

What Sets Us Apart:

 

• Certifications & Training: All ProTec inspectors are licensed and members of InterNACHI. Several inspectors also maintain an ASHI membership.
• 200% Satisfaction Guarantee: Not satisfied? We’ll refund your fee and cover another inspection.
• Same-Day Reports: Fast, detailed, interactive summaries.
• Comprehensive Services: From radon and mold testing to luxury and commercial inspections.
• Advanced Training: Inspectors stay up-to-date on state and industry standards. All inspector undergo ongoing education on a regular basis.

ProTec combines state-required standards, industry best practices, and decades of experience to deliver inspections that give clients confidence and peace of mind.