Becoming a Home Inspector in Arizona: Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a licensed home inspector in Arizona involves meeting education requirements, passing a national exam, gaining field experience, and applying for state certification. Arizona regulates home inspectors through the State Board of Technical Registration (AZBTR), so you'll need to follow their guidelines. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide covering licensing requirements, training programs, costs, timeline, professional associations, earnings, and additional tips.

Licensing Requirements in Arizona

Arizona requires home inspectors to be at least 18 years old and to fulfill several key licensing steps:

• Complete 84 Hours of Approved Home Inspection Training: You must attend 84 hours of classroom or equivalent training from an accredited provider. This training should cover all major home systems (structure, roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.) and prepare you for the exam. (See “Training Programs in Arizona” below for recommended schools.)
• Pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE): Arizona uses the NHIE as its licensing exam. This is a 4-hour, 200-question multiple-choice test covering property inspection, analysis of findings, and professional responsibilities. A passing score of 500 (on a 200–800 scale) is required, and the exam fee is about $225 per attempt. If you don’t pass, you must wait 30 days to retake it.
• Complete 30 Parallel Inspections: After passing the NHIE, you need to perform 30 home inspections in the field under the supervision of an Arizona-certified home inspector. These are called “parallel inspections,” where you accompany a mentor inspector on actual inspections. You must log each inspection (with dates and addresses) and have your supervising inspector(s) sign off on an affidavit for each one. One of your completed inspection reports will also be submitted with your application as a work sample.
• Obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card: Arizona law requires home inspector applicants to complete a background check. You’ll need to submit fingerprints to the Arizona Department of Public Safety and obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card. (Previously, applicants provided two fingerprint cards to AZBTR, but now an active DPS clearance card is required.) There is a fee for processing fingerprints (around $50–$70) and it may take a few weeks to receive your clearance, so plan accordingly.
• Obtain Liability Insurance or Bond: Within 60 days of getting certified (and before doing any paid inspections), Arizona home inspectors must have a form of financial assurance on file. This can be an Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance policy of at least $200,000 aggregate and $100,000 per claim, or a $25,000 surety bond (or proof of $25,000 in cash or assets). This requirement protects consumers in case of inspector negligence, and failure to maintain the insurance/bond can lead to revocation of your certification.

By fulfilling all the above requirements, you’ll be eligible to apply for your Arizona Home Inspector certification.

Step 1: Complete Required Home Inspector Training (84 Hours)

The first step is to complete 84 hours of approved home inspection education. Arizona mandates this pre-licensing education to ensure you have a solid knowledge base of all home inspection topics. You can meet this requirement through in-person classes or online courses, as long as the provider is accredited (approved by the U.S. Dept. of Education or AZ private post-secondary education board). Key details include:

• Course Content: The training will cover Arizona’s Standards of Practice for home inspectors and all major components of a home, including structural systems, roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, interior/exterior, insulation, and more. A good program will also familiarize you with writing inspection reports.
• Approved Providers: There are several schools and programs for Arizona. For example, the Arizona School of Real Estate & Business (ASREB) offers an AZBTR-approved 84-hour Home Inspection Certification Program (available via live-stream or in person in Scottsdale). Tuition for ASREB’s course is around $1,095. National training companies like American Home Inspectors Training (AHIT) and Inspection Certification Associates (ICA/PDH Academy) also offer Arizona-approved courses (often online) covering the 84-hour curriculum. InterNACHI® School provides an 87-hour online course free for members, which is accredited and accepted by AZBTR.
• Tips: Ensure the course you choose provides a certificate of completion, as you’ll need to submit proof of your 84 hours with your license application. Many programs also include exam prep materials to help you get ready for the NHIE, which can be very beneficial. If you take an online course (like InterNACHI’s), verify that you can obtain an official transcript or certificate to send to AZBTR for approval.

Most trainees complete the 84 hours in a matter of weeks (for a full-time classroom course, it may be a 2-week program of 8-hour days, while part-time evening classes might span 4–8 weeks). Once you finish your education, you’re ready for the next step: the national exam.

Step 2: Pass the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)

After your training, you must pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE), a standardized test required in Arizona and many other states. Here’s what to expect:

• Exam Format: The NHIE consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (only 175 are scored; 25 are unscored pilot questions) and you have 4 hours to complete it. The exam is administered via PSI test centers. It covers three primary domains: Property and Building Inspection/Site Review, Analysis of Findings and Reporting, and Professional Responsibilities. Essentially, it tests your knowledge on all aspects of home inspections – from technical knowledge of systems to ethics and report writing.
• Registration and Cost: You can register for the NHIE through the exam provider (PSI) online or by phone. The fee is about $225 each time you take the exam. Be prepared to pay at registration. If you need to reschedule, check PSI’s policies to avoid losing your fee.
• Passing Score: The NHIE is scored on a scale of 200–800, and 500 is the passing score. You will receive a score report; a passing result is needed for your license application. If you fail, Arizona requires a 30-day waiting period before retaking the exam, so it’s wise to study hard and pass on the first try.
• Exam Preparation: Given the cost and the breadth of material, good preparation is crucial. Use your 84-hour course materials and consider additional exam prep resources. Many training programs offer practice quizzes or exam prep classes. InterNACHI offers a free online practice exam and a comprehensive exam prep course for members. Utilizing practice tests can help identify areas where you need more review. Also, ensure you’re familiar with Arizona-specific standards (Arizona follows its own Standards of Professional Practice for Inspectors, which align largely with national standards).

After passing the NHIE, you’ll receive a score report or certificate. Keep this document, as you must submit proof of passing with your license application. Now you’re ready to gain the required field experience.

Step 3: Complete 30 Parallel Inspections (Field Experience)

Arizona is somewhat unique in requiring new inspectors to log field experience before getting licensed. You must complete 30 parallel home inspections under the guidance of an already-certified Arizona home inspector. “Parallel” means you are effectively shadowing or co-performing the inspection:

• Finding a Mentor: You’ll need to find one or more Arizona-certified home inspectors willing to let you ride along on inspections. Many new inspectors network through their training school or professional associations to find mentors. For instance, InterNACHI’s mentor program can connect you with experienced inspectors in Arizona. You can also reach out to local home inspection companies – some may allow trainees to accompany them (sometimes for a fee or by signing a waiver).
• During Parallel Inspections: As a parallel inspector, you observe the inspection process and often perform the inspection yourself under supervision. This hands-on training lets you apply your classroom knowledge to real homes. Pay attention to how the mentor conducts the inspection, interacts with clients, and writes the report. You should practice taking your own notes and photos as if you were doing the inspection solo, then compare your findings/report with your mentor’s. This is invaluable experience that helps build confidence and competence.
• Logging the Inspections: Keep a detailed log of each inspection. Arizona requires a Parallel Inspection Log listing the date, property address, and the certified inspector you worked with for all 30 inspections. The AZBTR provides a log form or you can use a spreadsheet—just ensure it’s legible and contains all required info. Each parallel inspection must be verified by the supervising inspector. Typically, your mentor(s) will sign an affidavit for each inspection or one affidavit attesting to all inspections you did with them. These affidavits (notarized) will accompany your application as proof of experience.
• Inspection Report: You will also need to submit one complete home inspection report from your parallel inspections with your application. Choose one that you are proud of – perhaps have your mentor review it beforehand. The report should comply with Arizona’s Standards of Practice and cover all required elements (the AZBTR has a checklist you’ll include to show your report hits all points).

Completing 30 supervised inspections can take a couple of months or more, depending on how quickly you can schedule them. For example, if you can do 2–3 ride-alongs per week, you might finish in ~10–15 weeks. It’s a good idea to start seeking a mentor early (even while you’re studying for the exam) so you can begin the parallels soon after passing the NHIE.

Step 4: Obtain Fingerprint Clearance and Required Insurance

Before you submit your application, make sure you have taken care of a couple of additional requirements: fingerprint clearance and insurance/bonding.

• Fingerprint Clearance Card: Arizona requires home inspectors to pass a background check. You’ll need to obtain an Arizona Department of Public Safety Fingerprint Clearance Card (Level I) as a condition of licensure. The process involves filling out an application (which can often be done online through the DPS or via an authorized vendor), paying the fee (approximately $70), and submitting your fingerprints (via fingerprint card or live scan). The DPS will conduct a criminal background check and, if you meet the criteria, issue you a wallet-sized clearance card. This can take a few weeks, so it’s smart to initiate the fingerprint process early (even while doing your parallel inspections). You must include a copy of your active clearance card or proof of fingerprint submission with your AZBTR application as required documentation.
• Errors & Omissions Insurance or Bond: As mentioned under licensing requirements, Arizona mandates that inspectors carry E&O insurance or a bond once licensed. You do not need the policy/bond in place to get your initial certification approved, but you must have it before performing any fee-paid inspections (and within 60 days of certification). When you apply for certification, you will sign an affidavit (the “Notice to Home Inspectors” form) acknowledging you’ll secure the required insurance or bond. Plan for this business expense: a typical E&O insurance policy for a new inspector might cost a few hundred dollars per year (varies by coverage limit and provider), and a $25,000 surety bond might cost around $250 annually. Many inspectors opt for E&O insurance, often bundled with General Liability insurance for broader protection. Make sure the coverage meets Arizona’s minimum ($100k per claim, $200k aggregate). If using a bond or proof of assets, be prepared to file that documentation with the Board.

Tip: It’s wise to line up an insurance quote or bond provider in advance so you can activate your coverage as soon as you’re certified. Some professional associations (InterNACHI, ASHI) have recommended insurers or member discounts on E&O insurance.

Step 5: Submit Your Application for Arizona Home Inspector Certification

Once you have completed your education, passed the NHIE, done your 30 parallel inspections, and obtained your fingerprint clearance, you can formally apply for your Home Inspector license with the Arizona State Board of Technical Registration. Here’s how to navigate the application process:

• Application Form and Fee: Download the “Home Inspector Application” from the AZBTR website and fill it out completely. The application will ask for your personal details and a checklist of all requirements. You must submit a $175 application fee (as a check or money order payable to the AZBTR) with the application. (Note: Arizona does not currently allow online application submission; you’ll likely mail or hand-deliver the packet. Ensure payment is included – applications without the fee won’t be processed.)

• Required Documentation: Along with the form and fee, you need to include several attachments to prove you met the requirements:

  • A copy of your NHIE exam results showing a passing score (must be dated within two years of applying).
  • Your 84-hour training certificate or transcript from the school.
  • The Parallel Inspection Log listing at least 30 inspections.
  • The notarized affidavits signed by each supervising inspector who oversaw your parallel inspections.
  • One complete home inspection report from your parallel inspections, along with the AZBTR’s “Report Checklist Supplement” form showing you cover all required report items.
  • A photocopy of your Fingerprint Clearance Card (or fingerprint cards if still applicable) and the AZBTR’s fingerprint verification form.
  • A signed Arizona Statement of Citizenship or Alien Status form with a copy of your government-issued photo ID (proving you are legally allowed to work).
  • The signed AZBTR Notice to Home Inspectors (acknowledgment of insurance requirement).
  • If applicable, disclosure of any prior criminal convictions or professional license discipline (with explanatory statements).

  Double-check the AZBTR instructions to ensure you have all documents in order; missing items will delay your application.

• Submission and Processing: Submit your full application packet to the AZBTR (mail or drop-off). Once received, the Board will review it for completeness. The processing time for a home inspector application in Arizona is typically about 8–12 weeks after they have everything, so be prepared to wait a couple of months. (The Board may contact you or your listed references if they need to verify any information.) You can call the Board or check online to track the status after a few weeks.

• Certification: If everything is in order, the Board will approve your certification and issue your Arizona Home Inspector license (you’ll receive a certificate/registration number). Once certified, remember that before you inspect for a fee, you must have your E&O insurance or bond in place and file proof with the Board within 60 days. Also, your license will need to be renewed annually on or before its expiration (one year from issuance). Arizona currently does not require continuing education for home inspectors to renew, but you will need to pay a renewal fee each year (approximately the same as the application fee, around $175–$250; the exact renewal fee is set by the Board’s fee schedule).

By following these steps, you can become a certified home inspector in Arizona. The key is to stay organized and meet each requirement in sequence. Next, we’ll cover some resources and information to help you in this process, such as training programs, professional associations, costs, and career outlook.

An Arizona home inspector in training examines an electrical outlet during a home inspection. Gaining hands-on experience through parallel inspections is a crucial step in the licensing process.

Training Programs and Schools in Arizona

Choosing the right training program is important for both meeting the 84-hour education requirement and preparing you for a successful career. In Arizona, there are several recommended home inspection courses and schools:

• Arizona School of Real Estate & Business (ASREB): ASREB offers a state-approved 84-hour Home Inspection Certification program. This course is available via live classroom (Scottsdale campus) or live-stream online. It covers all required topics and aligns with the NHIE content. Tuition is about $1,095 for the full program, and classes are offered in both intensive weekday formats or evening schedules. ASREB’s program is well-regarded in Arizona and provides in-person instructor support.
• American Home Inspectors Training (AHIT): AHIT is a national company that provides Arizona-approved home inspector training. They often have online coursework combined with live webinars or in-field components. AHIT’s curriculum meets the 84-hour requirement and is geared toward passing the NHIE. Many AHIT packages include additional resources like textbooks, practice questions, and reporting software. (Pricing can vary; expect somewhere around $800–$1,500 for comprehensive packages, depending on included materials and whether there’s a live class component.) AHIT also hosts free webinars and has student support for graduates entering the business.
• InterNACHI® (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors): InterNACHI operates an accredited online “InterNACHI School” that offers a free 87-hour Home Inspector Certification Course for its members. This course is broken into modules and can be taken at your own pace online. InterNACHI’s course is accredited by ACCET (an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education), which means AZBTR will accept it as equivalent to the 84-hour classroom training. While the training itself is free, you would need to become an InterNACHI member (annual membership is about $499, or $49 monthly). For self-motivated individuals, this is a cost-effective option that also provides access to InterNACHI’s vast library of resources and ongoing education.
• Inspection Certification Associates (ICA / PDH Academy): ICA, also branded as PDH Academy for their home inspection course, offers an online 84-hour Arizona Home Inspection Training Program. Their program is fully online and self-paced, and is approved to satisfy Arizona’s requirements. ICA often bundles extras like a year of home inspection report software (Report Form Pro) and bonus courses (e.g., mold and radon inspection courses) at no additional cost. They also advertise a free one-year membership in a professional development platform (Edcetera Home Inspection) for graduates. The cost for ICA’s course is typically around $700–$800 (often with occasional discounts).
• Local Community Colleges or Technical Institutes: A few community colleges or technical schools in Arizona sometimes offer home inspector training as well. For example, some programs might be available through adult education or continuing education departments in Phoenix or Tucson. These can be worth checking out if you prefer a classroom environment and local instructors. Ensure any such program meets the 84-hour requirement and is recognized by the AZ Board.

When selecting a program, consider your learning style, schedule, and budget. Classroom courses offer live interaction and hands-on demonstrations (helpful if you benefit from in-person learning), whereas online courses offer flexibility to work at your own pace. All the above options will cover the same core content; the difference is in delivery and support. Regardless of which school you choose, make sure upon completion you receive a certificate and that the school is ready to assist if the Board needs any verification of your training.

Certification Bodies: InterNACHI and ASHI

Aside from state licensing, many home inspectors choose to join professional associations for certification, networking, and ongoing education. Two of the most prominent organizations are InterNACHI and ASHI. While these certifications are not required for you to work as a home inspector in Arizona, they can enhance your credibility and provide valuable resources.

• InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors): InterNACHI is the largest home inspector association, and it offers the Certified Professional Inspector (CPI) designation. To become an InterNACHI-Certified inspector, you must: join as a member, pass InterNACHI’s Online Inspector Exam, complete their Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice courses, submit four mock inspection reports, and sign a membership affidavit. These steps ensure you meet InterNACHI’s standards of knowledge and practice. Once you complete the requirements, you earn the CPI credential and can use the InterNACHI logo and marketing materials. InterNACHI membership (around $499/year) includes access to countless online training courses (over 1,000 hours), free webinars, marketing and business development tools, inspection software discounts, and more. InterNACHI is very education-focused, so it’s a great resource for new inspectors to continue learning beyond the initial 84 hours. They also require ongoing Continuing Education (at least 24 hours per year) to maintain certification, which helps keep you up-to-date. Many clients and real estate agents recognize the InterNACHI CPI designation as a mark of a committed professional.
• ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors): ASHI is the oldest professional organization for home inspectors in the U.S. They offer the ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI) credential, which is a well-respected certification. To achieve ACI status, an inspector must pass the NHIE (which as an Arizona inspector you will have done), complete at least 250 paid home inspections to demonstrate experience, and have their inspection reports pass a review for compliance with ASHI’s Standards of Practice. They must also agree to ASHI’s Code of Ethics and complete at least 20 hours of continuing education per year. Obviously, the ACI is not an entry-level certification – it’s something you work up to after gaining experience. However, ASHI also has introductory membership levels (Associate or Inspector Member) for those with fewer inspections. New inspectors can join ASHI and benefit from their resources and chapters while working toward full certification. ASHI provides education, an annual conference, a home inspector magazine, and a strong ethical framework. In Arizona, there is a local ASHI chapter which can be a great place to find a mentor and attend monthly meetings or training events.

Which to choose? You don’t have to choose one – many inspectors end up belonging to both InterNACHI and ASHI. InterNACHI is often praised for its abundance of online training and marketing support, whereas ASHI is valued for its long-standing reputation and stringent standards. For someone just starting, InterNACHI’s free training and immediate “CPI” designation is very accessible. As you gain experience, adding ASHI membership can further solidify your credentials. Clients will often simply look for whether you are “certified” by a reputable body. Both InterNACHI and ASHI logos on your marketing materials can reassure clients that you adhere to industry best practices.

Costs Associated with Training, Exams, and Licensing

Becoming a home inspector in Arizona does require an upfront investment. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs you can expect during the process:

• Training Course Tuition: Depending on the program you choose, the 84-hour training can cost anywhere from $0 to $1,500. Online options like InterNACHI can be effectively free if you amortize the membership fee over all the training you get (InterNACHI membership ~$499/year). Schools like ASREB charge about $1,095 for the full course, and other private training companies (AHIT, ICA) are usually in the $700–$1,300 range for their packages. Consider also any travel or lodging costs if you attend an in-person class out of town.
• Books and Materials: Some courses include textbooks or e-books in their tuition, but if not, you might spend ~$50–$100 on reference materials or practice exam books. (For example, the NHIE study guide is a popular book that costs around $40–$60.) These are optional but recommended expenses for studying.
• NHIE Exam Fee: $225 each attempt. Hopefully, you only pay this once by passing on the first try. If you need to retake, budget another $225 for each additional attempt.
• Fingerprint Clearance: The DPS application fee for the Fingerprint Clearance Card is roughly $67 (as of recent years for Level 1 clearance). If using an electronic fingerprint service, they may charge an additional processing fee (around $10–$20). So total could be about $70–$90 for fingerprints.
• Application Fee: $175 to apply for the Arizona Home Inspector certification. This is paid to the AZBTR when you submit your application.
• License Renewal Fee: Arizona’s renewal fee is in the same ballpark as the application fee. Although no education is required for renewal, you will pay a fee annually to maintain your license. (One AZBTR document example noted a renewal fee of $225 in a particular cycle, but confirm current fees with the Board; it’s often around $150–$250/year).
• Insurance Costs: If you opt for E&O insurance, plan for an annual premium. For a new inspector, E&O insurance might cost roughly $600–$800 per year for the minimum coverage. This can vary based on your coverage limits and if you bundle general liability insurance. A $25,000 surety bond, if you go that route, costs around $250/year. While this cost isn’t upfront to get licensed, it’s a required cost before you start working.
• Association Memberships: If you join InterNACHI or ASHI (or both), factor in those dues. InterNACHI is ~$499/year (or $49 monthly) and ASHI’s dues for an Associate start around $399/year (plus a one-time application fee ~$25). These are optional but beneficial expenses for professional development.
• Equipment and Tools: As you start your business, there will be costs for inspection tools (good quality flashlight, GFCI tester, ladders, moisture meter, infrared camera, etc.), and possibly a tablet or laptop and inspection software subscription. This easily can add $1,000–$2,000 in business startup costs, though you may acquire tools gradually. (For example, many inspectors invest in a software like Spectora or Home Inspector Pro which might be $800+ for a license or an ongoing monthly fee). While not part of licensing, it’s wise to budget for these as you plan your new career.

In summary, if you choose a mid-range training course and include all fees, getting licensed might cost roughly in the range of $1,500 to $2,500 when you add up training, exam, application, and initial business setup (not counting a vehicle and general business incorporation fees, if any). If you go with lower-cost training (InterNACHI) and minimize extras, you might keep it under $1,000 to get licensed. It’s a relatively low-cost entry compared to many professions, especially considering the income potential once you start working.

Estimated Timeline for Completing the Process

The time it takes to become a licensed home inspector in Arizona can vary based on your personal schedule and how quickly you move through each step. Here’s an estimated timeline from start to finish:

1. Education (84 hours): If attending a full-time class (8 hours a day on weekdays), you can finish in about 2 weeks. If you do night classes or self-paced online, it might take 4–8 weeks to complete, depending on how much time you dedicate each week. Some people stretch it out while working a day job, whereas others tackle it intensively.
2. Exam Prep and NHIE: After education, you might want a little time to review and take practice exams. Some go straight to the NHIE, especially if the material is fresh, scheduling it the week after finishing the course. Others may study an additional few weeks. Let’s assume 1–3 weeks of prep, then take the exam. You will get your score immediately at the testing center. If you pass on the first try (hopefully), you can proceed. (If not, add a mandatory 30-day wait and more study time.)
3. Parallel Inspections (30 Inspections): This is perhaps the most variable part. It largely depends on how quickly you can find a mentor and line up 30 inspection opportunities. If you can devote full days to ride-alongs, you might do several per week. Suppose an established inspector lets you join 2 inspections per week – at that pace it would take about 15 weeks (~3.5 months) to get 30 done. If you can manage 3–4 per week, you could finish in 8–10 weeks (~2 months). Networking through InterNACHI or local ASHI chapters might help you find multiple inspectors to accelerate this. Conversely, if you have scheduling constraints or difficulty finding mentors, it could take longer (some people take 6+ months to gather 30 inspections). It’s smart to start parallel inspections as soon as possible, even while waiting for exam results or your fingerprint card, to compress the timeline.
4. Fingerprint Clearance Card: The processing time for fingerprints can be anywhere from 1–6 weeks. Often it’s around 2–4 weeks if there are no hiccups. Since you can apply for the clearance early, this may run in parallel to other steps. Ideally, initiate this as soon as you decide to pursue the license (since you know you’ll need it). By the time you finish exams and parallels, your clearance might be ready.
5. Application Submission: Once you have all pieces (education done, passed exam, completed parallels, fingerprint card in hand), assembling your application might take a week or so as you gather signatures and notarize forms. Try not to delay at this stage – fill everything out carefully and double-check your packet.
6. Application Processing: After you mail/submit your application to AZBTR, expect about 8–12 weeks for the Board to review and approve it. In some cases, if everything is very complete and there’s no backlog, it could be quicker (perhaps 4–6 weeks), but officially 8–12 weeks is common. During this time, the Board might contact you if they need any clarification or additional info, so stay responsive.

Given the above, a motivated individual could potentially go from start to licensed in around 4–6 months under optimal conditions. For instance: 1 month study, 1 month exam+fingerprints, 2–3 months parallel inspections (overlapping with fingerprint processing), then 2 months application processing. More realistically, many people take around 6–9 months total, especially if working another job concurrently or if scheduling is tricky. If you need to retake the exam or struggle to find inspection opportunities, it could extend to a year.

Tip: To shorten the timeline, overlap tasks when possible (e.g., start fingerprinting early, do parallels while studying for the exam, etc.). Also, ensure your application is complete to avoid delays – an incomplete application could be rejected or sit idle until you supply missing pieces, adding weeks. With good planning, you’ll be ready to launch your home inspection career within a few months of starting the process.

Potential Earnings and Career Prospects

Home inspection can be a rewarding career in Arizona, both personally and financially. Earnings can vary widely based on factors like your location, experience, and how many inspections you perform, but here are some insights:

• Average Income: According to recent data, the average annual salary for a home inspector in Arizona is around $65,000. Salary.com reports a range typically between about $57,000 and $75,000 per year for residential home inspectors in AZ, with the median being roughly $65K. This assumes a full-time workload. Indeed.com lists a similar average (around $69K for Arizona). Keep in mind, many home inspectors are self-employed, so “salary” can depend on how much business you drum up. In the Phoenix metro area, where demand is high, incomes might trend higher, whereas rural areas might be lower.
• Income per Inspection: Home inspectors generally charge $300–$500 (or more) per home inspection in Arizona, depending on the size and age of the home and any additional services (like pool inspections, termite inspections, etc.). As a new inspector, if you start by charging say $350 per inspection and you perform 2 inspections per week, that’s about $700/week, which annualizes to ~$36,000. If you build your business to doing 8–10 inspections per week (which is a full schedule, roughly two per day), the gross revenue could be around $3,000+ per week – over $150,000 a year. Of course, you’ll have business expenses to deduct from that. An ICA infographic illustrates that in Arizona, doing 5 inspections a week could yield roughly a six-figure income (around $100K/year), and 10 inspections a week might reach ~$180K/year (though 10 a week consistently is quite busy and may require working Saturdays or hiring help). Many inspectors find a comfortable middle ground, doing perhaps 3–5 inspections per week especially when starting out, and then increasing as their reputation grows.
• Career Prospects: The real estate market drives home inspection demand. Arizona, particularly cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and their suburbs, has seen steady growth and lots of home buying activity. This means strong demand for home inspections. Even when the market cools, people still buy homes (and every home bought should have an inspection). Beyond pre-purchase inspections, there are other niches: pre-listing inspections for sellers, annual maintenance inspections for homeowners, new construction phase inspections, and specialty inspections (pool/spa, mold, energy audits, etc.). With Arizona’s climate, there’s also demand for inspectors who can inspect for termite damage (wood-destroying organisms) – note, you’d need a separate certification from the Arizona Office of Pest Management to perform official termite inspections. Expanding your services over time can increase your earnings.
• Employment vs. Self-Employment: Some new inspectors start by working for an established inspection company on a split-fee basis (or salary). This can provide a more stable income initially and more field experience. However, the majority of home inspectors are eventually self-employed, running their own business. As a solo operator, your income potential is tied to your ability to market yourself and book jobs. The upside is that as you build a network with real estate agents and a good reputation, you can get a steady stream of referrals. Seasonally, spring and summer tend to be the busiest for home sales, so you might have higher income in those months and a bit less in the winter – planning and budgeting for the cyclical nature is important.
• Growth and Advancement: After gaining experience, some inspectors branch out into related fields or advanced roles. For example, you might become a multi-inspector firm owner (hiring other inspectors under your brand), which can significantly boost your earnings if managed well. Some experienced inspectors also get into commercial property inspections, which are more complex but command higher fees. Others add services like radon testing, mold inspection, or home energy audits (each of which might require additional training or certification, but can generate extra income per client). Additionally, with enough experience, you could consider becoming an instructor for home inspection courses or even a consultant/expert in construction defect litigation. The career paths are flexible – you can keep it a one-person shop or expand as you see fit.

In summary, as a home inspector in Arizona you could earn anywhere from a modest income to a very high income based on your effort and business acumen. Many inspectors report that beyond the money, the job offers independence (you set your schedule) and the satisfaction of helping homebuyers make informed decisions. With Arizona’s continuing growth, the job outlook remains positive – there will always be homes to inspect and a need for qualified inspectors to do the job.

Additional Tips and Relevant Details

• Continuing Education: Although Arizona doesn’t require CE for renewal, staying educated is important. Building knowledge in specific areas (like roofing, HVAC, plumbing) will make you a better inspector. Take advantage of the free courses from InterNACHI or other training providers to continually upgrade your skills. This also helps if you ever seek licenses in other states (many states do require CE).
• Tools and Software: Invest in good tools and a good reporting software early on. A professional home inspection report is your product, so having software that allows you to include photos and deliver a clear, organized report is key to client satisfaction. Many new inspectors practice by doing a few mock inspections on friends’ or family’s homes to get comfortable with the process and using the software before doing it for paying clients.
• Mentorship and Networking: Don’t underestimate the value of connecting with other inspectors. Joining local inspector meetups or associations (like the Arizona ASHI Chapter or InterNACHI’s local events) can provide support and mentorship beyond the parallel inspection phase. Experienced inspectors can offer advice on everything from what insurance to get to how to handle tricky situations in the field. Plus, sometimes established inspectors overflow with work and may refer excess jobs to newbies they trust.
• Business Setup: If you plan to operate your own business, take care of business fundamentals: register an LLC (if desired), obtain any needed local business licenses, and consider consulting an accountant about how to manage income and taxes. Arizona may require a business registration for providing professional services – check AZBTR’s rules on firm registration. (For instance, in some states, if you use a company name, that company might need a separate registration. As an individual Arizona-certified inspector, you may not need to register a firm unless you incorporate or have multiple inspectors, but it’s worth verifying with the Board or an attorney familiar with AZ laws.) Also, maintain a professional website and marketing materials. Many new inspectors get their first clients by reaching out to real estate agents with brochures or doing office presentations – having a polished brand helps.
• Quality and Ethics: Always perform thorough inspections and adhere to the Standards of Professional Practice (Arizona has specific standards you will learn in training, largely based on industry norms). It can be tempting to cut corners to save time, but your reputation will be built on being detail-oriented and honest. Follow the Code of Ethics of your association (InterNACHI, ASHI, or both) to avoid conflicts of interest – for example, inspectors should not perform repairs on houses they inspect, and should remain impartial and not influenced by real estate agents. Arizona’s regulations and the professional bodies all emphasize ethical practice. This not only keeps you out of trouble but also is the right thing for your clients.
• Universal Licensing (for Out-of-State Inspectors): If you’re already licensed in another state and moved to Arizona, there is a provision for “universal licensure” by reciprocity. Arizona may grant you a license if you have been licensed in another state for at least one year and meet certain conditions. The process would involve the Universal Licensure Application and proof of your out-of-state credentials. This doesn’t apply to new inspectors but is good to know if you or colleagues ever relocate.
• Start Part-Time (if needed): Some new inspectors ease into the field part-time while still working another job, until they have enough business to go full-time. This can be a practical approach as you build a client base. Just ensure you remain available to clients and agents – inspections often need to happen on short notice during real estate transactions. Great customer service (prompt communication, timely report delivery, etc.) will set you apart and lead to referrals.
• Keep Records: Maintain organized records of all your inspections, insurance, and clients. Arizona requires you to keep inspection reports for at least five years, as part of the standards. Good record-keeping will help if you ever have a question or claim arise down the line.

Embarking on the path to become a home inspector in Arizona is an exciting step. By following the requirements for licensing, investing in quality training, and continually developing your skills, you can build a successful career in the home inspection industry. There’s a learning curve, but resources from AZBTR and organizations like InterNACHI and ASHI are there to support you. Good luck on your journey to becoming a certified home inspector in Arizona!

Sources:

• Arizona State Board of Technical Registration – Home Inspector Licensing Requirements
• Arizona School of Real Estate & Business (ASREB) – License Requirements and Course Details
• InterNACHI – Arizona Certification Requirements & InterNACHI Training
• AHIT – How to Become a Home Inspector in Arizona (Step-by-Step)
• Salary.com – Average Home Inspector Salary in Arizona
• ASHI – ASHI Certified Inspector Requirements