NJ 180 Hour Home Inspector Course Description (Live Virtual + Field Training)

180-Hour Program Breakdown

The New Jersey 180-hour requirement is fulfilled as follows:

• 140 hours – Live virtual classroom instruction
• 40 hours – Supervised home inspection field training

Both components are required to complete the program.

Live Virtual Classroom Curriculum (11 Weeks)

Live instruction is delivered via Zoom, allowing real-time interaction with instructors. All sessions are recorded and emailed the next day for review or missed classes.

Core Inspection Modules

Interior & Insulation Inspection – NIHI-101

Students learn to inspect and describe interior components and environmental controls, including:

• Thermal insulation effectiveness
• Moisture intrusion and vapor retardants
• Ventilation systems and indoor air quality
• Walls, ceilings, floors, basements
• Interior doors, windows, stairs, railings
• Garages, door operators, cabinets, and countertops

Focus is placed on safety, performance, and moisture-related defect identification.

Roofing Inspection – NIHI-102

This module develops a systematic approach to roof inspections, including:

• Roof covering types and common defects
• Drainage systems (gutters and downspouts)
• Flashings, skylights, chimneys, and penetrations
• Ventilation and system performance
• Safety protocols and code considerations

Students learn both defect recognition and roof system evaluation.

Exterior Inspection – NIHI-103

Covers inspection and reporting of exterior components such as:

• Lot grading and drainage
• Retaining walls and window wells
• Driveways, patios, walkways
• Decks, balconies, porches, railings
• Wall cladding, flashing, trim
• Eaves, soffits, fascia
• Exterior doors and windows

Emphasis is placed on water management and safety risks.

Structural Inspection – NIHI-104

Students learn to evaluate:

• Foundations and footings
• Floor systems
• Wall framing and materials
• Roof and ceiling structures

Training focuses on identifying structural defects, water damage, improper construction, and system interaction.

Heating Inspection – Part 1 (NIHI-105)

Inspection of:

• Gas and oil furnaces
• Hot water boilers
• Equipment condition and materials
• Safety hazards (CO, venting, gas leaks)
• Operational testing and reporting

Heating Inspection – Part 2 (NIHI-106)

Advanced heating systems including:

• Vent systems and flues
• Chimneys and fireplaces
• Wood-burning appliances
• Electric heating systems

Students learn inspection protocols, safety considerations, and defect recognition.

AC & Heat Pump Inspection – NIHI-107

This module covers:

• Refrigeration fundamentals
• Installation types and configurations
• Defect diagnosis and troubleshooting
• Safety and compliance
• Efficiency and environmental considerations
• Documentation and reporting

Plumbing Inspection – NIHI-108

Includes inspection of:

• Water supply and distribution systems
• Fixtures and faucets
• Water heating equipment
• Drain, waste, and vent systems
• Sump pumps, disposals, and related components

Electrical Inspection – NIHI-109

Students are trained to inspect:

• Service drops and grounding systems
• Service panels
• Wiring methods
• Devices and fixtures
• Common electrical defects and safety hazards

Effective Communication – NIHI-110

Focuses on:

• Verbal communication with clients
• Clear written inspection reporting
• Client education
• Ethical and legal responsibilities
• Professionalism and customer service

Report Writing & Business Development – NIHI-111

Students learn:

• Clear narrative report writing
• Standards of practice
• Risk management through reporting
• Business development fundamentals
• Professional protocols

Supervised Field Training (40 Hours)

The field training program fulfills the 40-hour supervised inspection requirement for New Jersey licensure.

• Students accompany a licensed NJ Home Inspector
• Inspections are performed on real residential properties
• Field training inspections are scheduled through an online scheduler
• Students have up to 6 months to complete field hours

Report Writing & Feedback After Every Inspection

After every field inspection, students must:

1. Write a full inspection report
2. Submit the report for instructor review
3. Receive written feedback and corrections

This feedback loop ensures students improve inspection accuracy, reporting clarity, and professional communication before licensing.

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