As a building Inspector, you will be responsible for making sure that buildings are structurally sound, meet industry standards and do not violate any building codes. As long as you have a high school diploma or GED, you can get a building inspector license in California.
Gain experience in construction. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that anyone seeking to becoming a Certified Building Inspector should have five years' work experience in construction and one year of building inspector experience.
Become familiar with the NFPA's standards. Anyone wanting to become a Certified Building Inspector in the state of California is required to know the NFPA's standards and pass the NFPA Certified Building Inspector examination.
Locate and enroll in an educational facility that offers a Building Inspector Certification Program. Many local community colleges offer such a program.
Pass the California Home Inspector Exam and the NFPA exam. Once you have passed these exams, you are now a Certified Building Inspector in the state of California.
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Become a member of the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA). You can only do this after you have your license. To become a member the CREIA requires that you have 30 documented credit hours of continuing education relating to real estate inspection. They also require that you attend two CREIA meetings, that you have passed the California Home Inspector Exam and that you participate in the CREIA mentoring program. Becoming a member of the CREIA is optional, but your membership will give customers confidence in your credentials and experience.