Credit: Friends of Tina Davis
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed legislation, introduced by state Rep. Tina Davis, (D-Bucks) that would set statewide standards for home inspectors, as currently, there are no licensing requirements, Tuesday.
“A home is likely the largest, most valuable asset a person purchases in their lifetime, and they deserve to have peace of mind when making that investment,” Davis said. “If an inspector fails to find or report vital information in an inspection, it can lead to costly repairs and could even exacerbate health issues.”
House Bill 2645 would require that individuals seeking to become licensed home inspectors complete at least 80 hours of commission-approved education, register as a home inspector-in-training, fulfill at least 50 mentored home inspections under the direct supervision of a licensed inspector and pass a commission-approved licensing examination.
Additionally, the legislation would require licensed home inspectors to complete 32 hours of continuing education during each two-year renewal period, including specific training concerning manufactured and modular homes.
The State Real Estate Commission would be responsible for administering and enforcing the new home inspection requirements.
“This legislation would establish clear, consistent standards for home inspectors across Pennsylvania and ensure that consumers have the important protections and information necessary to navigate this process,” said Davis.
The bill would also establish requirements for home inspection reports, including descriptions of the inspection’s scope and any material defects identified. Reports would also be required to disclose visible evidence of interior mold and advise the client to seek a professional evaluation.
H.B. 2645 would also eliminate licensing requirements for selling campground memberships and time shares in the commonwealth.
“I’m grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who supported this legislation, and I’m looking forward to working with the Senate to get this bill to the governor’s desk,” said Davis. “This is a common-sense measure that will secure the investments of Pennsylvania homeowners for years to come.”
H.B. 2645 now moves to the state Senate for further consideration.