NJ 180 Course Description

11 Weeks total

Below is a breakdown of our 180 NJ home inspection course.

Interior & Insulation Inspection NIHI-101

The interior inspection of residential properties encompasses a wide range of critical elements:

1. Thermal Insulation: This includes assessing the effectiveness of insulation materials such as fiberglass, foam boards, or spray foam to ensure they provide adequate thermal resistance and help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while reducing energy consumption.

2. Moisture Management Techniques & Issues: This involves examining the building’s moisture barrier, waterproofing systems, and drainage solutions to prevent water intrusion, condensation, mold growth, and structural damage caused by excess moisture.

3. Vapor Retardants: Evaluating the use of vapor retardant materials like vapor barriers or diffusion retarders to control the movement of moisture vapor through building assemblies, reducing the risk of moisture-related issues within walls, ceilings, and floors.

4. Ventilation Systems: Inspecting ventilation systems including exhaust fans, ductwork, and natural ventilation strategies to ensure adequate air exchange, moisture control, and indoor air quality for occupant health and comfort.

5. Interior Elements:

Walls, Ceilings, Floors: Checking for structural integrity, proper insulation, moisture resistance, and fire safety in these surfaces.
Basements: Assessing waterproofing, foundation integrity, moisture control, and potential risks like radon.
Doors & Windows: Inspecting for proper sealing, weather-stripping, and energy efficiency.
Interior Stairs/Railings: Ensuring safety, stability, and compliance with building standards.
Installed Countertops & Cabinets: Checking for quality of installation, durability, and potential moisture damage.
Garage Doors/Door Operators: Examining for proper operation, safety features, and security.

By focusing on these areas during inspections, you contribute significantly to ensuring the overall safety, efficiency, and durability of residential properties.

Roofing Inspection NIHI-102

The NIHI Roofing Inspection module focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of the various elements involved. This includes:

1. Types of Roof Coverings: Students learn about different types of roof coverings such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing, tile, and flat roofs. They understand the common defects associated with each type, such as shingle granule loss, metal corrosion, tile cracking, or flat roof membrane punctures.

2. Drainage Systems: This aspect covers gutters, downspouts, and the overall drainage design of the roof. Students learn to identify issues like clogged gutters, improper slope for water runoff, or inadequate downspout placement that can lead to water damage or leaks.

3. Flashings: Flashings are critical for preventing water intrusion around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys. Students learn to inspect flashings for proper installation, deterioration, or gaps that can compromise the roof’s integrity.

4. Skylights and Chimneys: Skylights and chimneys are common penetration points on roofs that require careful inspection. Students learn about potential issues such as cracked skylight seals, flashing leaks around chimneys, or damaged chimney caps that can lead to water infiltration.

5. Other Roof Penetrations: This includes items like vents, HVAC units, satellite dishes, and solar panels. Students understand how these penetrations can impact roof integrity and how to assess their condition during inspections.

6. System Performance: Beyond identifying defects, students also analyze the overall performance of the roofing system. This includes evaluating ventilation, insulation, and energy efficiency to ensure the roof functions optimally.

7. Safety Concerns: Safety is paramount in roofing inspections. Students learn about safety protocols, equipment usage, and how to assess potential hazards such as weak roof structures, slippery surfaces, or electrical risks.

8. Compliance with Codes and Standards: Throughout the training, emphasis is placed on understanding and applying relevant building codes, industry standards, and best practices. Students learn how to ensure that roofing installations and repairs meet regulatory requirements.

The training approach typically involves a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on practical exercises, case studies of real-world roofing issues, and assessments to gauge student comprehension and proficiency. It’s a holistic approach aimed at producing skilled and knowledgeable roofing inspectors capable of effectively evaluating and maintaining roof systems.

Exterior Inspection NIHI-103

The NIHI Exterior Inspection module is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of inspecting and describing various exterior elements of residential dwellings. This includes:

1. Retaining Walls: Assessment of structural integrity, drainage systems, and potential issues such as cracking or settlement.

2. Grounds: Examination of landscaping features, drainage patterns, and any potential hazards or safety concerns.

3. Window Wells: Inspection of window well covers, drainage, and protection against water infiltration.

4. Lot Grading: Evaluation of slope and drainage around the property to prevent water damage.

5. Driveways: Assessment of surface condition, drainage, and any signs of damage or wear.

6. Patios and Walkways: Examination of materials, condition, slope for drainage, and safety hazards.

7. Decks and Balconies: Inspection of structural integrity, support systems, railing safety, and any signs of deterioration or damage.

8. Stoops and Steps: Evaluation of stability, condition of steps, handrails, and potential tripping hazards.

9. Porches: Assessment of structural soundness, support posts, flooring, and railing safety.

10. Railings: Inspection of strength, attachment points, height requirements, and compliance with safety standards.

11. Wall Cladding: Examination of exterior wall materials, condition, moisture barriers, and potential water intrusion points.

12. Flashing Trim: Evaluation of flashing installation around windows, doors, and roof penetrations to prevent water infiltration.

13. Eaves, Soffits, and Fascia: Assessment of overhangs, ventilation, and condition of these components.

14. Exterior Doors and Windows: Inspection of seals, frames, glass integrity, hardware, and operation.

By learning to describe and inspect these exterior elements comprehensively, students gain valuable skills in identifying defects, assessing safety risks, and understanding the overall condition of a property’s exterior.

Structural Inspection NIHI-104

The NIHI Structure Inspection module provides a comprehensive understanding of the structural components of residential dwellings. Students delve into the following areas:

1. Foundations and Footings: Examining the integrity and stability of foundation systems, including assessing for cracks, settlement issues, waterproofing, and proper load-bearing capacity.

2. Floors: Evaluating the condition of flooring materials, structural support, moisture issues such as rot or mold, insulation, and compliance with building codes related to floor systems.

3. Walls: Inspecting interior and exterior walls for structural soundness, moisture penetration, insulation, proper framing techniques, siding materials, and adherence to fire safety standards.

4. Roof Ceiling Structures: Assessing the roof structure for signs of damage, leaks, improper installation, ventilation issues, insulation effectiveness, and compliance with roofing codes and standards.

Throughout the course, students learn to apply their knowledge to identify common defects such as structural cracks, inadequate support, water damage, improper installation of materials, and insulation deficiencies. Emphasis is placed on understanding how these components interact within the overall structure, ensuring system performance, addressing safety concerns, and promoting compliance with good construction practices and building codes.

Heating Inspection Part 1 NIHI-105

The NIHI Heating Inspection 1 module is designed to equip inspectors with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess and evaluate installed heating systems in residential dwellings. The course focuses on gas and oil furnaces, as well as hot water boilers, covering various aspects such as source identification, material types, conditions, safety concerns, and equipment inspection.

Key Learning Objectives:

1. Source Identification: Students will learn to identify the source of heating systems, including gas and oil furnaces, and hot water boilers, understanding their operational mechanisms and fuel sources.

2. Material Type and Condition Assessment: Inspection techniques will be taught to assess the material types used in heating systems and evaluate their overall condition, including components such as burners, heat exchangers, controls, and piping.

3. Safety Concerns: Emphasis will be placed on identifying safety hazards associated with heating systems, such as gas leaks, carbon monoxide emissions, improper venting, and electrical hazards, and implementing appropriate safety protocols.

4. Equipment Inspection: Students will develop skills in conducting thorough inspections of heating equipment, including testing functionality, checking for leaks, assessing combustion efficiency, evaluating heat distribution, and verifying compliance with relevant codes and standards.

5. Documentation and Reporting: The course will cover best practices for documenting inspection findings, creating comprehensive reports, and communicating findings effectively to clients, including recommendations for maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.

Heating Inspection Part 2 NIHI-106

The NIHI Heating Inspection 2 module is designed to provide comprehensive training on various heating systems and components. Here’s a more robust course description:

This module delves into the intricate details of heating systems, focusing on vent systems, flues, chimneys, fireplaces, other wood heating appliances, and electric heating systems. Students will gain a deep understanding of how these systems function, their components, and the critical inspection points necessary for professional home inspection practices.

1. Vent Systems and Flues: Students will learn about the different types of vent systems and flues used in heating appliances, including their design, materials, and installation requirements. Emphasis is placed on inspecting for proper sizing, clearances, and condition to ensure safe and efficient operation.

2. Chimneys: The course covers chimney construction, materials, and common issues such as blockages, deterioration, and improper installation. Students will develop skills in assessing chimney integrity, identifying defects, and recommending necessary repairs or maintenance.

3. Fireplaces: This section explores various types of fireplaces, including traditional masonry fireplaces, prefabricated units, and gas fireplaces. Students will learn about firebox construction, hearth requirements, damper operation, and safety features.

4. Wood Heating Appliances: Students will study the inspection of wood-burning stoves, pellet stoves, and other wood heating devices. Topics include combustion chamber evaluation, clearance requirements, flue pipe connections, and safety considerations related to wood fuel usage.

5. Electric Heating Systems: The module covers electric heating methods such as baseboard heaters, electric furnaces, and heat pumps. Students will examine electrical components, thermostat operation, heat distribution mechanisms, and potential hazards associated with electric heating systems.

Throughout the course, students will engage in case studies, and real-world scenarios to reinforce their learning and prepare them for effective heating system inspections in residential properties. By the end of the module, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to identify defects, assess system performance, and provide valuable insights as professional home inspectors.

AC / Heat Pumps Inspection NIHI-107

The NIHI AC/Heat Pumps course module provides a thorough exploration of air conditioning and heat pump systems, focusing on their inspection and maintenance. Here’s a more robust course description:

1. Fundamentals of Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps: Students delve into the principles and components of air conditioning and heat pump systems, including refrigeration cycles, compressors, condensers, evaporators, and refrigerants.

2. System Installation and Configuration: Understanding proper installation techniques and configurations for different types of air conditioning and heat pump systems, including split systems, package units, ductless systems, and geothermal heat pumps.

3. Troubleshooting and Diagnosis: Learning to identify common defects, malfunctions, and performance issues in air conditioning and heat pump systems. Students develop skills in troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and refrigeration problems.

4. Safety and Compliance: Emphasizing safety protocols, electrical codes, and regulatory compliance related to air conditioning and heat pump installations and inspections.

5. Efficiency and Performance Optimization: Techniques for optimizing system efficiency, improving performance, and maximizing energy savings in air conditioning and heat pump operations.

6. Environmental Considerations: Understanding environmental impacts, refrigerant regulations, and sustainable practices in air conditioning and heat pump maintenance and repair.

7. Documentation and Reporting: Guidelines for thorough documentation of inspections, findings, recommendations, and compliance with industry standards and best practices.

By completing the NIHI AC/Heat Pumps course module, students gain the expertise needed to conduct comprehensive inspections, diagnose issues accurately, and ensure the efficient and safe operation of air conditioning and heat pump systems.

Plumbing Inspection NIHI-108

The NIHI Plumbing Inspection module is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct thorough inspections of plumbing systems in residential dwellings. The course covers a wide range of topics, including:

1. Interior Water Supply Systems: Students learn to inspect and evaluate the functionality of the entire water supply system within a home, including pipes, fittings, valves, and water pressure regulators. They also gain an understanding of different pipe materials and their implications for plumbing performance.

2. Water Distribution Systems: The course delves into the inspection of water distribution systems, which involve assessing the layout, piping configurations, and connections that deliver water to various fixtures throughout the home. This includes examining the integrity of pipes, fittings, and connections for leaks or signs of wear.

3. Fixtures and Faucets: Students learn to evaluate the condition and functionality of fixtures such as sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs. This includes assessing water flow, drainage efficiency, and identifying any defects or issues that may affect the usability or safety of these fixtures.

4. Water Heating Equipment: The module covers the inspection of water heating systems, including traditional tank-based water heaters and tankless water heaters. Students learn to assess the condition, performance, and safety features of water heating equipment, as well as potential issues such as leaks, corrosion, or inadequate heating capacity.

5. Drain/Vent/Waste Systems: The course includes a comprehensive examination of drain, vent, and waste systems within a residential property. This involves inspecting drainage pipes, venting systems, traps, and waste disposal units to ensure proper functionality, adequate ventilation, and compliance with plumbing codes and standards.

6. Related Fixtures: Additionally, students learn about related fixtures such as garbage disposals, sump pumps, and backflow prevention devices. They understand the importance of these components in maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system.

Throughout the module, emphasis is placed on identifying common defects, safety concerns, and compliance with industry regulations. Students gain knowledge through practical exercises and case studies, preparing them to perform professional plumbing inspections with confidence and accuracy.

Electrical Inspections NIHI-109

The NIHI Electrical Inspection module equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thoroughly inspect and assess the performance of electrical systems in residential settings. The course covers a wide range of essential components, including:

1. Services Drops: Students learn to inspect the connection point between the utility’s power line and the building’s electrical system, ensuring proper installation and functionality.

2. Grounding Systems: The module delves into the grounding infrastructure of residential buildings, focusing on the effectiveness of grounding electrodes, conductors, and connections to mitigate electrical hazards.

3. Service Panels: Students are trained to evaluate service panels (also known as breaker panels or fuse boxes) to verify proper wiring, labeling, overcurrent protection, and overall compliance with electrical codes.

4. Wiring Systems: The course covers various types of wiring commonly found in residential properties, such as Romex, conduit, and knob-and-tube wiring. Students learn to identify wiring defects, assess wiring integrity, and ensure safe electrical connections.

5. Devices: Inspection techniques for electrical devices like outlets, switches, light fixtures, and appliances are emphasized. Students learn to identify common defects, assess device functionality, and check for proper wiring and grounding.

6. Fixtures: The module includes inspection protocols for electrical fixtures such as ceiling fans, chandeliers, sconces, and built-in lighting systems. Students learn to evaluate fixture installation, condition, and compatibility with electrical systems.

Throughout the course, students also learn about safety protocols, code compliance standards, common electrical defects, troubleshooting techniques, and reporting procedures. Practical exercises and case studies are often included to enhance field training and real-world application of inspection skills.

By completing the NIHI Electrical Inspection module, students are prepared to conduct thorough and accurate assessments of electrical systems in residential buildings, ensuring safety, performance, and compliance with industry standards.

Effective Communication for Professional Home Inspectors NIHI-110

Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful home inspection practice. In this course, students will develop and refine their oral and written communication skills to effectively convey the inspection process and findings to clients. Emphasis will be placed on clarity, professionalism, and thoroughness in communication, ensuring that clients have a clear understanding of the property’s condition.

1. Verbal Communication Skills:

– Develop clear and concise verbal communication techniques for explaining inspection processes to clients.
– Practice effective listening skills to understand client concerns and questions during the inspection.
– Learn how to address client inquiries and provide explanations in a professional manner.

2. Written Communication Skills:

– Master the art of writing detailed inspection reports that are easy to understand for clients.
– Learn to document inspection findings accurately and comprehensively.
– Understand the importance of using professional language and formatting in written communications.

3. Client Interaction and Education:

– Explore strategies for building rapport with clients and establishing trust during the inspection process.
– Learn how to educate clients about maintenance, safety, and potential issues discovered during the inspection.
– Practice delivering feedback and recommendations in a constructive and informative manner.

4. Ethical and Legal Considerations:

– Understand the ethical responsibilities of communication in home inspection, including confidentiality and honesty.
– Learn about legal requirements related to reporting and disclosing inspection findings to clients.
– Explore best practices for handling sensitive information and addressing client concerns ethically.

5. Professionalism and Customer Service:

– Develop a professional demeanor and attitude when interacting with clients and other stakeholders.
– Explore strategies for managing difficult conversations and handling client feedback professionally.
– Understand the importance of customer service in maintaining a positive reputation and generating repeat business.

By the end of this course, students will have developed the necessary communication skills to effectively communicate inspection processes, findings, and recommendations to clients in a professional and thorough manner. These skills are essential for success as a Professional Home Inspector in the field.

Report Writing and Business Development NIHI-111

1. Narrative Creation: Students learn how to craft compelling narratives that effectively convey information, tell stories, and engage readers. This includes understanding narrative structures, character development, setting descriptions, and dialogue techniques.

2. Report Writing: Emphasis is placed on writing clear, concise, and informative reports. Students learn about different types of reports, such as analytical reports, progress reports, and investigative reports. They also develop skills in organizing information, using visual aids effectively, and presenting findings logically.

3. Standards of Practice: Students delve into industry-specific standards and guidelines governing their field of study or profession. This includes understanding ethical standards, best practices, regulatory requirements, and compliance with legal frameworks.

4. Risk Management through Report Narratives: This involves integrating risk assessment and management principles into report writing. Students learn how to identify, analyze, and mitigate risks through the narratives they create, ensuring that reports not only inform but also address potential challenges and liabilities.

5. Business Development: This aspect focuses on strategies for growing and sustaining businesses or professional practices. Students explore market research, customer relationship management, networking, marketing techniques, and strategic planning to foster business growth and success.

6. Protocols: Students learn about established protocols and procedures relevant to their field, ensuring that their work adheres to industry standards and expectations. This includes protocols for data collection, analysis, reporting, communication, and collaboration with stakeholders.

By covering these areas comprehensively, students gain a well-rounded understanding of professional communication, risk management, ethical considerations, and business acumen within their respective industries.

Home Inspection Field Training Program NIHI-FT

The home inspection field mentoring certification program fulfills the 40-hour field mentoring training required for licensure as a home inspector in New Jersey. The student/applicant accompanies a licensed NJ Home Inspector on 40+ hours of live home inspections.

The 40 hours of field training inspections are arranged on our online scheduler.