Home Inspector
Required for anyone performing home inspections for compensation in Wisconsin. Home inspectors evaluate the condition of residential properties, typically during real estate transactions.
How to Get a Home Inspector in Wisconsin
| Issuing Body | WI DSPS |
| Initial Fee | $60 |
| Exam Required | Yes — Must pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) and the Wisconsin Home Inspector Supplemental Exam. NHIE fee is approximately $225. Wisconsin supplement is approximately $65. |
| Experience Required | Completion of at least 120 hours of approved pre-license education and participation in at least 25 supervised home inspections. |
| Application | Apply online → |
Continuing Education
Wisconsin requires 40 hours of continuing education every Biennially (even-numbered years, December 14) to renew your home inspector.
40 hours of approved continuing education per 2-year cycle, including Wisconsin standards of practice updates and report writing.
License Lookup & Verification
Verify a home inspector holder's credentials through the Wisconsin DSPS online license lookup tool.
Verify a License →Frequently Asked Questions — Home Inspector
What education do I need to become a home inspector in Wisconsin?
You need 120 hours of approved pre-license education covering structural systems, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, exteriors, interiors, and insulation. Several Wisconsin technical colleges offer approved programs.
How much do home inspectors make in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin home inspectors typically charge $300-$500 per residential inspection. Full-time inspectors performing 200-300 inspections per year can earn $80,000-$150,000 annually. Income varies by region and season.
Do home inspectors need insurance in Wisconsin?
While not strictly required by DSPS, errors and omissions (E&O) insurance is strongly recommended and many real estate agents will not refer inspectors without it. Typical policies cost $1,500-$3,000 per year.
How many supervised inspections are required in Wisconsin?
You must complete at least 25 supervised inspections under a licensed Wisconsin home inspector before you can apply for your own credential. These must cover a range of residential property types.
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