The journey to becoming a successful home and building inspector in Montana can be challenging for those who need more preparation. However, the process can be a breeze for those who have taken the time to research and familiarize themselves with what’s to come.
To help readers fall into the category of those who find their journeys fulfilling and straightforward, we have curated below a guide containing all of the major requirements for launching a successful career as a home and building inspector in Montana.
We break down educational options, certification standards, specific training locations, annual average income, opportunities for career growth, and more.
How to Become a Home and Building Inspector in Montana
Home and building inspectors in Montana typically launch their careers following the path below.
Basic Requirements
In Montana, anybody who would like to start their home and build an instructor career on the right path must have at least a high school diploma. Those who don’t have a diploma may utilize a GED test result in its place.
Educational Consideration
Arguably, the most important step in becoming a home and building inspector is receiving comprehensive education from an approved destination. In Montana, the Montana Department of Labor and Industry specifies that a home and building inspector course must contain at least 40 hours of instruction.
One of the next sections explores notable alternatives for candidates to consider in this regard.
Passing the National Examination
Montana is one of the very few states in the country where passing the national home inspector examination is optional. However, it is still very advisable for candidates to apply for and pass the exam, as it increases their credibility among prospective employers.
To qualify for the exam, candidates must pay a $225 fee and answer 200 multiple-choice questions covering analysis, professional responsibilities, and site review.
Joining a Professional Organization
All home and building inspectors in Montana are expected to become members of a professional home inspection organization. Some of the most popular are the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).
Consider exploring trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
All home and building inspectors in Montana are expected to receive a license. Completing all of the steps above is necessary for candidates to submit an official application to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, which oversees home inspection registration.
The application fee for a license is $80. Afterward, professionals in the field must obtain a minimum of $100,000 coverage for general commercial liability and $100,000 coverage for errors and omissions.
As mentioned earlier, candidates are also mandated to join a national home inspector examination. Lastly, a home inspector license in Montana is valid for 2 years before it needs to be renewed through 40 hours of continuing education.
Top Home and Building Inspector Schools in Montana
These are some of the best training programs for future home and building inspectors in Montana to consider.
Inspection Certification Associates
Online, MT Online Only
The Inspection Certification Associates (ICA) offers Billings residents an online training program in English and Spanish.
Tuition
$495 - $1,395 per ProgramContact
(888) 807-1706
admissions@icaschool.com
American Home Inspectors Training
Online , MT Online Only
American Home Inspectors Training also offers an online program for home and building inspectors. Notably, the program has a 98% student satisfaction rate.
Tuition
$699 - $1,399 per ProgramContact
(855) 493-0531
ahit@theceshop.com
The ASHI School
Online, MT Online Only
Lastly, candidates can also consider the approved program offered by The ASHI School, which is perfect since it belongs to one of the most prominent certification bodies – the American Society of Home Inspectors.
Tuition
$995 - $3,395 per ProgramContact
(888) 884-0440
info@theashischool.com
Explore home and building inspector schools in Montana by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary of a home and building inspector in Montana depends on how long a professional has been on the job and which particular city/destination they choose to secure employment in this state. Of course, other factors like professional credentials and specialty also come into play.
Generally, the annual average salary of a home and building inspector in the state can be around $27,076 if the professional is among the bottom 10% or $55,388 if they are among the median earners. Ultimately, the figure can keep growing to be among the top 10%, in which case professionals will take home an annual average salary of $82,147.
By location, Sidney is the best place to work as a home and building inspector in Montana. Professionals here earn an average annual salary of $65,063. The annual average salary for building inspectors in Bozeman is $65,325, while those who work in Belgrade earn an annual average salary of $64,547.