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In 1976 a small group of professional home inspectors, dissatisfied with the lack
of standardized technical and ethical practices, formed the
American Society
of Home Inspectors, (ASHI®). Their goals were to establish formal inspection
and reporting guidelines, to create and uphold a professional
code of ethics,
and to provide consumers with an assurance of quality and professionalism.
Today ASHI®, with numerous U.S. and Canadian chapters and over 6000 members,
has raised the profession's standards and reputation higher than ever.
ASHI®
requirements for full membership are rigorous, including the performance of
at least 250 paid professional home inspections, and the successful
completion
of two (2) written exams which test the applicant's knowledge of building systems
and components, report writing and ASHI® Standards and the
diagnosis of building
defects. Since changes in technology and in the residential real estate marketplace
occur almost daily, ASHI® members are required to
participate in a number
of continuing education programs, provided at the organization's national and
chapter levels. 20 Continuing Education Credits (CEU's)
are required each year
to be a member in good standing.
To eliminate any possible conflict of interest, ASHI® Code of Ethics forbids members
from endorsing any contractors for specific repair work
recommended in an inspection
where there may be a conflict of interest, or from doing the work themselves.
The ASHI® Standards of Practice, which define professional home inspections,
and include an inspection of the central heating and air conditioning
systems,
interior plumbing and electrical systems, roofing, insulation, ventilation, walls,
ceilings, floors, windows, doors, and the foundation (i.e.
crawl space or basement).
Many ASHI® inspectors provide helpful maintenance tips, as well, to guide home
buyers in the proper care of their new home. Above
all, if the inspector is a member
of ASHI®, he or she has proven qualifications to perform a professional home
inspection.
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