New regs for building inspectors take effect

Nevada is now one of just a handful of states that licenses home inspectors, in efforts to protect consumers by ensuring inspectors have a verified level of knowledge.

Division chief Joan Buchanan says she's excited the program is up and running, on time and under budget.

Limited regulation began in October 1997, requiring inspectors to maintain liability insurance. As of Wednesday, they must meet standards developed by the state, professional home and builder inspector associations and other entities. The minimum requirements are 40 hours of education and some experience in a related field.

With the basic license, an individual can inspect residential homes or commercial buildings of less than 10,000 square feet. After additional hours of instruction, inspectors can receive higher levels of certification. General inspectors can inspect all properties while master level inspectors are qualified to teach as well.

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