How to Become a Home Inspector in Delaware: Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a licensed home inspector in Delaware involves meeting specific education, training, and licensing requirements. This structured guide breaks down each step – from initial training to launching your career – with clear details on what you’ll need and what to expect.

Licensing Requirements in Delaware

Delaware uses a two-tier licensing system: you must first register as a Home Inspector Trainee, then fulfill requirements to become a licensed Home Inspector . Key state licensing requirements include:

• Trainee Registration – You must register as a Home Inspector Trainee with the Delaware Board of Home Inspectors before performing any inspections . This involves finding a Delaware-licensed home inspector to act as your supervisor and submitting a supervision verification form. Once approved, you can begin the required training inspections.
• Pre-Licensing Education – Complete 140 hours of approved home inspector training (either in classroom or online). The training program must be approved by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) . You’ll need to upload certificates proving you completed the 140 hours when you apply for your license .
• Supervised Inspections – Perform 75 home inspections under direct supervision of your licensed supervisor(s) as a trainee. These must be logged and signed off in an experience log . You can only start counting these inspections after your trainee registration is approved.
• National Exam – Pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE), a standardized exam required by Delaware . The NHIE consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and is known to be challenging – thorough preparation is recommended. You must have a passing score report sent directly to the Delaware board .
• Insurance – Obtain the required insurance coverage and provide proof. Delaware mandates at least $50,000 in errors and omissions (E&O) insurance and $250,000 in general liability insurance for home inspectors . A Certificate of Insurance from your carrier must be sent to the Board showing you meet these minimums.
• Education Level – You must have a high school diploma or GED to get licensed in Delaware . (No college degree is required.)
• Application and Fees – Submit your licensure application through the state’s online portal (DELPROS) along with the required documentation and fees. The application must be notarized and include disclosure of any criminal history (Delaware doesn’t require fingerprints, but you must report any convictions) . The state charges an application fee of $160 for the trainee registration and $293 for the home inspector license . These fees are paid to the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.
• License Issuance – Once you’ve met all the above requirements, Delaware will issue your Home Inspector license. Licenses are valid for two-year cycles and expire on August 31 of odd-numbered years (e.g. 2025, 2027), with a continuing education requirement for renewal (described below) .

Training Programs (Pre-Licensing Education)

To fulfill Delaware’s 140-hour education requirement, you can choose from several accredited training programs – available online or in-person. Here are some recommended options:

• InterNACHI Online Courses – InterNACHI offers a free Delaware-approved 140-hour pre-licensing course online for its members . This allows you to complete all required education at your own pace. Note that access requires InterNACHI membership (currently $49 per month or $499 per year for unlimited training) , which also includes many other benefits. InterNACHI’s curriculum is approved by Delaware, and upon completion you’ll receive a certificate to use in your license application.
• AHIT (American Home Inspectors Training) – AHIT provides a comprehensive Delaware Home Inspector training course that meets the 140-hour requirement. Their Professional Home Inspector course is available online and covers all essential topics, often supplemented with videos and practice questions. AHIT’s programs are ASHI-approved and Delaware-recognized . They offer tiered packages – for example, a basic online package (~$699) and advanced packages with extra features (up to ~$1,399) . These typically include exam prep tools, textbooks, and sometimes additional certifications (like radon or commercial inspection courses in the higher-tier packages).
• ICA (Inspection Certification Associates) – ICA provides an online home inspector training course approved for Delaware licensure. The course is self-paced and covers the required 140 hours. ICA often bundles extra resources such as bonus courses (e.g. mold, radon) and NHIE exam prep materials. Tuition is roughly in the $700–$800 range for the full program. ICA emphasizes that its training meets Delaware’s standards and is recognized by both InterNACHI and ASHI . Upon completion, students receive a certificate and often a one-year membership in a professional association (a value-add ICA includes) .
• ATI Training – All-American Training Institute (ATI) offers a Delaware-approved 140-hour Home Inspection “Master Course” . ATI provides options for online learning as well as regional in-person classes. The course covers the state’s required topics and includes support for the NHIE exam. Costs for ATI’s program are in a similar range (often around $800 or more, depending on the package or any live training components). ATI also advertises additional resources like marketing training and ongoing support for graduates.
• Other Programs – There are other educational providers as well, such as ASHI’s own training programs (often delivered through partner schools or The ASHI School), and platforms like PHII (Professional Home Inspection Institute) or local community college courses. When choosing a program, ensure it is approved by Delaware’s Board (either via ASHI or InterNACHI approval) so that it will be accepted for the 140-hour requirement. Delaware’s Board of Home Inspectors provides a list of approved education providers, which can guide you in selecting a compliant course.

Tip: Many online courses allow you to study at your own pace, which can be completed in a few weeks of full-time effort or spread out over a few months if you’re working around a job. In-person classes (if available) may offer quicker completion with hands-on training, but require you to attend scheduled sessions. Choose the format that best fits your learning style and schedule.

Costs Involved

Becoming a home inspector in Delaware entails several costs. It’s important to budget for all the required expenses (education, exams, licensing) as well as some optional or ongoing costs (tools, insurance, memberships). Below is a breakdown of typical costs:

• Pre-Licensing Education: Training courses can range from $0 to around $1,000 depending on the provider. If you use InterNACHI’s online training, the course itself is free but requires a membership (~$499/year) . Other schools like AHIT, ICA, or ATI charge tuition fees – often around $600 to $1,400 for comprehensive packages . The cost may vary based on included materials (textbooks, extra certifications, etc.). Be sure to factor in any travel costs if you attend in-person classes.
• Exam Fee: The National Home Inspector Exam costs $225 per attempt in most states , including Delaware. This fee is paid to the exam provider when you schedule the NHIE. If you don’t pass on the first try, you’ll have to pay the fee again for each retake, so investing in exam prep can save you money by helping ensure you pass the first time.
• State Licensing Fees: Delaware charges fees for both the trainee registration and the actual license application. The Home Inspector Trainee application fee is $160, and the Home Inspector license application fee is $293 . These are one-time fees paid to the state (via DELPROS) at the time of application. License renewals every two years will also have a renewal fee (Delaware’s renewal fee was around $255 in recent cycles, though fees can be subject to change ).
• Insurance: You’ll need to secure E&O and liability insurance before you can get licensed. Insurance premiums for home inspectors typically run on the order of a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per year, depending on coverage limits and your provider. A ballpark estimate is around $40–$50 per month for a basic policy that meets Delaware’s minimums (approximately $480–$600 per year). You may pay more if you opt for higher coverage or add-ons. Shop around and get quotes – some associations offer discounted insurance for members.
• Business License: In addition to your inspector license, Delaware law requires you to obtain a state business license to operate a home inspection business. The Delaware business license for a professional service costs $75 per year (for your first location) , and it must be renewed annually (or you can opt for a three-year license). This license is obtained from the Delaware Division of Revenue and essentially registers your business for tax purposes.
• Equipment and Tools: Aspiring inspectors should budget for basic tools and equipment to perform inspections safely and effectively. This includes items like a quality flashlight, GFCI tester, electrical multimeter, ladder, infrared thermometer, moisture meter, camera (for photos of defects), and personal safety gear. You may also need a mobile device or laptop and home inspection software to generate reports. Some training packages include report software for free or trial use , otherwise you might purchase software separately (which can range from a one-time ~$300 fee to a monthly subscription). The initial outlay for tools can easily be a few hundred dollars up to $1,000+ if you buy advanced tools, but you can start with basic versions and upgrade as you grow.
• Optional Expenses: Consider costs for professional memberships (InterNACHI’s $499/year, ASHI’s dues, etc.), which often pay off in benefits but are not mandatory. Additionally, marketing expenses (like setting up a website, business cards, insurance for a branded vehicle, etc.) will come into play if you start your own business. Finally, while not an upfront cost, remember that continuing education will be required every renewal cycle – sometimes these courses have fees unless you utilize free member benefits from an association.

By planning for these expenses in advance, you can avoid surprises and ensure you have the financial resources to complete the licensing process. Many new inspectors treat the training and startup costs as an investment into starting their own small business.

Expected Salary in Delaware

How much do home inspectors make in Delaware? Earnings can vary based on experience, volume of work, and whether you’re self-employed or working for a company. Here’s an overview of salary expectations:

• Average Annual Salary: The average home inspector in Delaware earns roughly $60,000 per year. ZipRecruiter reports an average of about $60,397/year (about $29 per hour) as of 2025 . Similarly, Talent.com estimates the average salary at around $65,000/year . This figure typically reflects inspectors in the mid-range of experience, doing a moderate volume of inspections.
• Entry-Level: New inspectors just starting out (with fewer inspections under their belt) will likely earn on the lower end. Entry-level positions (for example, working as a junior inspector for a company) might start around $50,000 per year . In the beginning, it may take time to build a client base, so income can be modest until you establish yourself.
• Experienced Inspectors: With experience, a solid reputation, and a steady stream of clients, earnings increase. Fully licensed inspectors with several years in the field in Delaware average closer to $75,000–$80,000 per year . ZipRecruiter data for “licensed home inspectors” in DE shows an average around $79,632/year (about $38/hour) . Many experienced inspectors augment their income by taking on more inspections per week or offering additional services (like radon or mold testing for extra fees).
• High Earners/Self-Employed: Top earners, especially those who are self-employed and handle high volumes, can make over $100,000 annually. It’s not uncommon for a busy solo inspector (or someone who expands into a multi-inspector firm) to break six figures after a number of years. Indeed.com reported that as of 2022 the average total pay for Delaware home inspectors was about $88,000/year when factoring in commissions (many inspectors who work for companies get paid per inspection, which is akin to commission). An inspector charging ~$400 per inspection and doing 250 inspections a year would gross $100,000 – this is achievable with experience, strong referrals, and efficient workflow.
• Income Factors: Keep in mind that income can fluctuate based on the real estate market. Home inspectors generally earn more during strong housing markets (more home sales = more inspections) and might see a dip in slower markets. Seasonality can also play a role (spring and summer are typically busier for home sales than winter). Additionally, if you are self-employed, your net profit will be your gross inspection fees minus expenses (insurance, gas, tools, marketing, etc.). On the other hand, working for a company might provide a steadier base salary but with a split of the inspection fee.

In summary, you can expect a comfortable middle-class income as a home inspector in Delaware, with the potential to earn a higher salary as you gain experience and if you grow your business. It’s a field where your effort in building expertise and reputation directly impacts how much you make.

Job Prospects and Outlook in Delaware

Job Outlook: The demand for home inspectors is closely tied to the real estate market. The good news is that home inspections are a standard part of most home sales – in fact, about 90% of home buyers use a home inspector before closing on a property . This means there is consistent demand for qualified inspectors. As long as properties are being bought and sold, “home inspectors are in business” . Delaware, although a smaller state, has active real estate markets (for example, the Wilmington area, Dover, and the coastal communities), ensuring ongoing opportunities for inspections.

However, growth in this career is expected to be steady but not rapid. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies home inspectors with “Construction and Building Inspectors,” and projects little or no employment change (around 0% growth) from 2023 to 2033 . In other words, nationally the number of inspector jobs is expected to hold fairly stable over the next decade. This suggests that while the field isn’t exploding in growth, there will also not be an oversaturation — people will retire or leave the profession and new inspectors will step in to replace them at about an equal rate. Delaware’s total number of home inspectors is relatively small (around 600 inspectors statewide in recent estimates) , which means local competition is not overwhelming, but each market area might only support a certain number of active inspectors.

Employment Options: Home inspection is often a self-driven, entrepreneurial career. Many inspectors in Delaware choose to work for themselves, operating independent inspection businesses. This allows flexibility (setting your own hours and fees) and the ability to grow your income directly by taking on more work. If you go this route, you’ll be responsible for generating your own business – typically by networking with real estate agents, marketing to home buyers/sellers, and building a strong reputation through quality service.

There are also opportunities to work for established companies. Some home inspection firms or franchises hire inspectors as employees or independent contractors. In Delaware and the surrounding region, you might find multi-inspector companies (including franchises like AmeriSpec, Pillar to Post, WIN Home Inspection, HouseMaster, etc.) that take on new inspectors. Working for a company can provide a guaranteed flow of inspection leads and possibly benefits, though the trade-off is you often earn a portion of the fee (or a salary) rather than the full inspection fee. When starting out, this can be a way to gain experience and mentorship without immediately having to generate your own client base.

Additionally, a few inspectors might find roles in related areas: for example, doing inspection work for government agencies (though code compliance inspectors for municipalities have different licensing) or insurance and relocation companies that perform specialty inspections. Some large engineering or construction firms also employ inspectors for specific projects. These opportunities are less common but worth noting.

Self-Employment and Business Growth: If you plan to start your own inspection business in Delaware, the job prospects will depend on your ability to capture a share of the market. Building relationships with real estate agents is critical – they are often the source of referrals. Joining local Realtor association events or networking groups can help you connect. The relatively small size of Delaware’s market means word-of-mouth and reputation are very important; a few key connections can lead to a steady stream of clients. Over time, satisfied clients and agents will refer more business. Some inspectors expand by hiring additional inspectors and covering a larger service area (for instance, covering all counties in Delaware or extending into nearby Pennsylvania/Maryland). With Delaware being bordered by other states, licensing in multiple states can broaden your prospects (many Delaware inspectors also get licensed in Maryland or Pennsylvania to increase their territory).

In summary, the demand for home inspectors in Delaware is stable and tied to the housing market’s health. While the field isn’t expected to see explosive growth, there is a consistent need for new inspectors as older ones retire or as markets develop. By honing your skills, maintaining high standards, and actively marketing yourself, you can find ample opportunities – either by joining an existing firm or by carving out your own successful business.

Necessary Certifications to Enhance Your Career

Beyond the basic state license, obtaining professional certifications can greatly enhance your credibility and knowledge as a home inspector. While Delaware does not mandate these certifications, they are highly respected in the industry and often valued by clients and real estate professionals. Here are two of the most prominent certifications:

• InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector (CPI) – InterNACHI’s certification program is one of the most recognized in the field. To become a CPI, you join InterNACHI and must complete their certification requirements (which include passing InterNACHI’s online inspector exam, completing a code of ethics course, and submitting mock inspections). InterNACHI provides online testing and certification programs for members . Earning the CPI designation shows that you have met a robust set of standards and are committed to ongoing education (InterNACHI requires members to fulfill continuing education annually). Since Delaware already accepts InterNACHI’s pre-licensing courses, achieving CPI can be a natural step during your training process. The CPI logo and credential can be used on your marketing, instilling confidence in clients that you’re backed by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, which is “the world’s leading association for home inspectors” .
• ASHI Certification (American Society of Home Inspectors) – ASHI is the oldest professional organization for home inspectors in the U.S., and obtaining status as an ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI) is another mark of excellence. ASHI’s certification typically requires passing the NHIE (which you’ll do for Delaware licensure) and completing a certain number of fee-paid inspections (usually 250) to demonstrate experience, as well as a review of reports. While you likely won’t attain full ASHI certification until after you’ve done those inspections, you can join ASHI as an Associate member earlier and work toward ACI as you gain experience. ASHI is known for its strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics – its mission is “to set the highest standards in property inspections and provide essential education that fosters excellence” . Being ASHI-certified can reassure clients and brokers of your professionalism. Many government and commercial contracts also favor or require ASHI-certified inspectors for their projects.
• Other Certifications – There are additional credentials you might consider as you advance. For example, the Certified Master Inspector (CMI) designation is a level above CPI, offered by a board affiliated with InterNACHI, and requires at least 1,000 hours of combined education and inspection experience. Some inspectors also pursue certifications in specialized areas like commercial property inspections, mold inspection, or energy assessment. While these go beyond standard home inspections, they can broaden your service offerings over time. Focus first on InterNACHI or ASHI certification, as those will give you a strong foundation and are most recognizable to the public.

Obtaining these certifications is typically optional but can significantly boost your credibility and marketing appeal. They often come with additional benefits too: InterNACHI and ASHI both offer extensive resources, support networks, and education to their certified members. As a new inspector, leveraging these certifications can differentiate you in a competitive market and signal your commitment to excellence.

Professional Associations to Join

Joining a professional home inspector association is highly recommended. Associations provide ongoing education, support, and networking opportunities that can help you build and sustain a successful career. The two major associations in the industry are:

• InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) – InterNACHI is the largest home inspector association, with members across the globe. It offers numerous benefits: free and unlimited training courses, certifications, marketing and business development tools, a robust online forum community, and local chapters. Membership in InterNACHI in Delaware can connect you with other inspectors in the region and keep you informed of best practices and updates. InterNACHI’s focus is on helping inspectors be successful – “Everything you need to get started, make more money, and grow your inspection business” is provided in one place for members . They also host events, webinars, and even have the House of Horrors® training facilities (hands-on practice houses) that members can visit for training. By joining InterNACHI, you not only satisfy Delaware’s education approval (since Delaware recognizes InterNACHI courses), but you gain a lifelong partner in your professional development.
• ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) – ASHI is a well-respected non-profit professional organization that has been around since 1976. Joining ASHI gives you access to a network of experienced inspectors nationwide and often within your local area (ASHI members in nearby states or regions frequently hold chapter meetings or educational seminars). ASHI offers its members ongoing education (including an annual conference), a monthly magazine, technical support, and a Standards of Practice that is widely used in the industry. Being an ASHI member can be a great way to network with seasoned professionals and even find mentors. Many consider ASHI membership as a mark of committing to the “highest standards in property inspections” and a dedication to professional excellence . Delaware does not have its own state-specific home inspector association, so ASHI’s Mid-Atlantic chapters (covering the region) would be your outlet for in-person networking under the ASHI umbrella.
• Other Associations – There are a few other organizations you might come across. NAHI (National Association of Home Inspectors) historically was another group, but it merged with ASHI, so ASHI now represents those members. A newer group, NA-AHI (North American Association of Home Inspectors), offers membership and resources to inspectors in the U.S. and Canada , though it’s smaller compared to InterNACHI/ASHI. Additionally, if you plan to offer specialized services, there are associations like AARST for radon testers or NACBI for commercial building inspectors, etc. As an aspiring home inspector, your primary focus should be InterNACHI or ASHI (many inspectors choose to join both to maximize benefits). Membership dues are a worthwhile investment as they often come with marketing materials, client brochures, logos for your use, and even legal resources or discounts on software/insurance.

Networking & Support: Being part of an association means you don’t have to navigate your new career alone. You can ask questions of veteran inspectors (for instance, InterNACHI’s online forums or ASHI chapter meetups), find ride-along opportunities, and even get referrals for business that other inspectors can’t handle. Associations also keep you updated on any changes in state laws (like if Delaware updates its requirements or standards) and provide resources for continuing education to meet renewal requirements.

In short, joining a professional association gives you credibility and a community. Clients may look for logos like “InterNACHI Certified” or “ASHI Member” on your website as an assurance of quality. And you’ll gain immeasurable knowledge and confidence through the association’s resources.

Additional Considerations and Tips

Finally, here are some extra tips and considerations to help you navigate the process of becoming (and succeeding as) a home inspector in Delaware:

• Delaware Business License: Don’t forget to obtain your Delaware business license in addition to the home inspector license. As mentioned, this is required to legally operate any business in the state. It’s a simple process through the Division of Revenue – you’ll select a business category (likely “Professional Services”) and pay the $75 fee . Operating without this license can result in penalties, so handle this step as you near the point of doing paid inspections. Also check if any local city licenses are needed (most Delaware municipalities don’t require an additional license for home inspectors, but if you operate in Wilmington or other large towns, verify local regulations).
• Continuing Education (CE): Once licensed, Delaware inspectors must complete 40 hours of approved Continuing Education every two years by the license renewal date (August 31 of odd years) . Be proactive in completing your CE – you can spread it out or do it in one chunk. There are many free or low-cost CE options (InterNACHI offers a lot of CE courses online at no extra cost for members, and Delaware has approved many of them). Keeping up with CE not only satisfies the requirement but also keeps your knowledge current. Topics for CE can include advanced electrical, HVAC, structural issues, new building codes, etc., which will make you a better inspector.
• Finding a Mentor/Supervisor: One of the more challenging parts of Delaware’s process is the 75 supervised inspections. It’s up to the trainee to find a willing supervising inspector. Start making connections early – reach out to established home inspectors in Delaware to ask if they are open to taking on a trainee. You might find leads through association chapters or forums. For example, an InterNACHI chapter meeting or ASHI meeting is a good place to network and express your interest in ride-alongs. Emphasize that you are willing to help and learn (you might offer to assist for free, carrying tools, etc., in exchange for the learning opportunity). Having a good mentor will not only allow you to log your required inspections but also teach you real-world practices that you can’t get from a textbook.
• Timeframe: Expect the entire licensure process to take several months at minimum. The 140-hour course could take a month or more depending on your pace. Scheduling and passing the NHIE might take another month or two of preparation. Completing 75 supervised inspections can take a while – if you’re able to go on 2-3 inspections a week, it could take ~6-9 months just to get those done (timing will vary with the availability of your supervising inspector and the real estate activity). Plan accordingly; some trainees complete everything within a year, while others take longer. Delaware does offer a temporary practice permit option in certain cases (for out-of-state inspectors waiting on the exam, etc.), but as a new inspector you’ll likely be under the trainee route until fully licensed.
• Building Your Toolset: Use your trainee period to build up your inspection toolkit and skills. As you attend supervised inspections, take note of tools your mentor uses that you might not have, and consider investing in them. Practice writing reports based on the inspections you observe – even if they are just “mock” reports for your learning. By the time you’re licensed, you want to be comfortable performing a complete inspection solo and producing a professional report. Many trainees compile a library of report templates, checklists, and reference materials (for example, code reference books or illustrations of home systems) that will be invaluable later. Delaware follows standard home inspection practices (based on ASHI or InterNACHI Standards of Practice), so become very familiar with what’s required to inspect and report on each system of a house.
• Liability Management: Home inspection is a profession with significant responsibility – buyers are relying on your report. Even with good training, mistakes or omissions can happen. This is why having E&O insurance is mandated. It’s wise to also implement strategies to manage liability: use a solid inspection agreement/contract that clients sign (outlining the scope and limitations of your inspection), and follow the Standards of Practice diligently so you don’t overlook required items. Both InterNACHI and ASHI provide sample contracts and legal resources for members. As you start inspecting on your own, always err on the side of caution – if you’re not sure about something, recommend further evaluation by a specialist. These habits will protect you and serve your clients well.
• Offering Ancillary Services: To increase your value (and income), consider getting certified to offer ancillary inspection services. Common add-on services include radon testing, wood-destroying insect (termite) inspections, mold sampling, well water testing, septic system inspections, etc. In Delaware, radon testing is regulated by the state’s Division of Public Health – you must obtain a separate radon certification (through AARST-NRPP or NRSB) and a Delaware business license specifically for radon services if you want to provide this service. Termite inspections (often called WDI – Wood Destroying Insect inspections) typically require you to have a pest control applicator’s license from the Delaware Department of Agriculture or to partner with a licensed pest control company. While you don’t need to do these add-ons to be a successful home inspector, having them allows you to be a one-stop shop for clients (many home buyers and agents prefer an inspector who can also do the termite inspection and radon test at the same time as the home inspection). Each additional certification will have its own training and costs, but it can pay off by enabling you to charge extra for bundled services.
• Reciprocity and Multiple Licenses: If you are considering working in neighboring states (since Delaware is small, you might be near Maryland, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey clients), be aware of each state’s licensing requirements. Delaware offers a license by endorsement for those already licensed in another state – meaning if you get licensed in Delaware and later move or want to work elsewhere, Delaware can endorse your credentials to that state (if that state has reciprocity agreements). Conversely, if you move to Delaware but were licensed elsewhere, you might skip some steps by applying by endorsement. Always check the latest state rules. Many Delaware inspectors choose to get licensed in Maryland or Pennsylvania to expand their service area. Just ensure you meet each state’s education/exam requirements (the NHIE is accepted in most places, and the 140-hour training covers many states’ hour requirements, though some states might require a few extra modules or state-specific exams).
• Business and Marketing: Plan for how you will launch your business or job search once you’re licensed. If going solo, start working on a simple business plan: decide on a business name, register an LLC (if you choose to form one), create a logo, and start building a basic website. Many new inspectors begin marketing themselves even before the license is in hand – for example, networking at real estate offices or joining local Facebook groups. If you intend to seek employment with an inspection company, begin reaching out to those companies as you near completion of your requirements; having your license (or being on the verge of getting it) plus your trainee experience logged will make you an attractive candidate. Delaware’s community is tight-knit, so reputation is everything – always conduct yourself professionally and ethically, even as a trainee, because word can travel among real estate circles.

Becoming a home inspector in Delaware may seem involved, but by tackling it step by step – education, trainee experience, exam, and licensure – you will build a solid foundation for a rewarding career. Delaware offers a clear path with its requirements, and by following this guide, you can navigate the process efficiently. Good luck on your journey to becoming a certified home inspector!

A Delaware home inspector examines a door frame’s alignment during a residential inspection. Hands-on training under a licensed inspector is a key part of the licensure process, ensuring new inspectors gain real-world experience.

Sources:

1. Delaware Division of Professional Regulation – “Home Inspector Licensure by Examination” (official requirements) .
2. American Home Inspectors Training (AHIT) – “Delaware Home Inspection License Requirements” (summary of state requirements) .
3. InterNACHI – “How to Become a Home Inspector in Delaware” (state-specific guidance) .
4. AHIT – “How to Become a Home Inspector in Delaware: 6 Steps” (blog post, includes exam and salary info) .
5. ZipRecruiter – “Home Inspector Salary in Delaware” (salary data, accessed Mar 2025) .
6. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook: Construction and Building Inspectors (job outlook and employment data) .
7. ATI Training – “Are Home Inspectors in Demand?” (industry outlook and facts) .
8. Delaware DPR – Approved Home Inspector Education Providers (verification of 140-hr courses, e.g. ATI Master Course) .
9. InterNACHI – Delaware Continuing Education Requirements (40 hours biennially) .
10. Delaware Division of Revenue – “Business License” (fee and renewal for professional services) .