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

Becoming a home inspector in Ontario is a great career choice that offers both personal fulfillment and plenty of opportunities. Whether you want to run your own business or work with a company, home inspectors play an important role in keeping homes safe and secure. This guide will take you through the essential steps to becoming a home inspector and help you get started on the right track.

Qualifications

Before starting your career as a home inspector, there are a few qualifications you need to meet. While there isn’t an official license required to become a home inspector in Ontario, education and certification are strongly recommended. 

Education and Training: The first step is to complete a home inspection program. Durham College’s Professional and Part-Time Learning offers a comprehensive Home Inspection program in partnership with Seneca College and Carson Dunlop and Associates. This program covers everything from inspecting plumbing and electrical systems to roofing and structural components. 

Certification: Although it’s not required, certification will help you build your reputation. The Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI) offers certification for inspectors who meet certain education and experience requirements. By completing the program at Durham College, you will be well-prepared to pursue certification. 

Durham College’s Home Inspector Program

Durham College’s Professional and Part-Time Learning offers the Home Inspection program, which includes 10 courses that covers everything from basic to advanced topics, such as: 

  • Structural and roofing systems 
  • Electrical and plumbing systems 
  • Heating and cooling systems 
  • Environmental and safety considerations 
  • Legal aspects of home inspection 
  • Business strategies for home inspectors 

This approach ensures you’re learning the skills needed to perform detailed home inspections. It follows industry standards and provides a solid foundation for your career. 

Getting Certified

Certification is an important step in becoming a recognized home inspector. After completing your training, you’ll want to get certified by a professional organization like OAHI. Certification involves passing an exam and completing a number of inspections under supervision. Certification shows clients that you are qualified and helps you stand out in a competitive job market. 

Once you're certified, there are many career options available. Home inspection is flexible, and you can choose to work for yourself or for a company. Some of the main career paths include: 

  • Start Your Own Business: Many home inspectors start their own business, offering flexibility and control over their work hours. The Durham College program also teaches you the basics of running a business, such as marketing and customer relations. 
  • Work for a Company: If you’d prefer not to handle the business side, you can work for a home inspection company. This allows you to focus on inspections and gain experience without worrying about the day-to-day management of a business. 
  • Collaborate with Real Estate Professionals: Home inspectors often work closely with real estate agents and brokers. This can lead to steady work and valuable networking opportunities. 
  • Explore Other Industries: As a home inspector, you may also find opportunities in related fields like construction, insurance, or property management. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about becoming a home inspector in Ontario: 

  • What qualifications do you need to be a home inspector in Ontario? You need to complete an accredited home inspection program, like the one at Durham College, and pursue certification from a professional organization such as OAHI. 
  • How much does a home inspector make in Ontario? Home inspectors in Ontario typically earn a median salary of 35.71 per hour, depending on experience and whether they are self-employed or working for a company.  
  • How much does it cost to become a home inspector in Canada? The Home Inspection program at Durham College is paid on a course-by-course basis, with each course typically costing between $330 and $380. Since you can enroll in individual courses, there is no fixed total cost for the program. Additional expenses may include textbooks, certification exam fees and costs related to starting your own business, should you choose that route. 

Next Steps

If you're ready to begin your journey toward becoming a home inspector in Ontario, Durham College’s program provides everything you need to get started. With a solid education and certification, you'll be prepared to succeed in this growing and rewarding field. 

What is DC Professional and Part-Time Learning?

DC Professional and Part-time Learning offers a diverse selection of over 50 programs and more than 900 courses designed to help you achieve your career goals. Investing in your career development can lead to promising future opportunities. You can register for many PPL courses either with Monthly Intake Online options, which start every month, or at the beginning of regular semesters such as Fall, Winter, and Spring.

What is Monthly Intake Online?

Monthly Intake Online courses are conducted on the OntarioLearn LMS platform and have a unique feature—they start every month, even outside of the regular semester dates. If you need flexibility in your course start date, Monthly Intake Online is an excellent choice. For financial assistance, please visit the OSAP Eligibility webpage. When you're ready to take the next step, explore your part-time learning options at www.durhamcollege.ca/PPL.