Home inspection business for home buyers

Home buyers, who book you during their purchase. Real estate agents are the main source of referrals.

A flat fee per inspection, based on the home's size and age. Add-ons such as radon, sewer scope or termite checks can raise the fee per job.

• Understanding how houses are built and how they fail
• Clear report writing
• Explaining problems calmly to worried buyers
• Building relationships with agents

• Many states require a home inspector license and some do not, so check your state's rules before taking jobs
• Errors and omissions (E&O) and general liability insurance, since a missed defect can lead to a claim
• Follow your state's standards of practice and use a clear pre-inspection agreement to limit disputes
• Slow months in winter or when mortgage rates are high, so keep some cash in reserve
• Climbing roofs and crawl spaces is physically demanding and carries injury risk

Startup costs are typically around $4,000 to $12,000, depending on your tools, training, insurance and reporting software. Costs vary with what your state expects you to complete before taking paid jobs.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many inspections you book and what you charge. Winter or periods of high mortgage rates can be slow, so keep some cash in reserve.

Many states require a home inspector license and some do not, so check your state's rules before taking jobs. Also check errors and omissions (E&O) and general liability insurance, and your state's standards of practice.