Alaska

Alaska Home Inspector

Without question, there is peace of mind that comes with the opportunity to choose someone you can trust to objectively and independently provide a comprehensive analysis of your home’s major systems and components. As of July 1, 2004 Alaskans have been relying on certification of Alaska home inspectors that provide such a service apart from anyone's interests other than their own.

Prior to 2003 there were no specific licensure requirements for home inspectors in Alaska. That was until Chapter 134 SLA was signed into law by Alaskan Governor Frank Murkowski. At present, Alaskan home owners and home buyers are protected by specific laws and regulations that pertain to home inspections.

Alaska Licensure Chapter 134 SLA was enacted in 2003. To paraphrase the legislative notes, the chapter states that:

Home inspectors and associate Alaska home inspectors need to obtain a certificate of registration that is issued by the Department of Community and Economic Development. In order to do so, they must take and pass the National Home Inspector Examination. There are educational and experience requirements that they must meet. These requirements are determined by the Department. A complete application for registration must be submitted within one year of passing the exam. There are specific crimes of which these professionals must not have been convicted in the past seven years. If an inspector applicant has had authority to perform home inspections revoked in the state or another jurisdiction, they will not be issued a certificate. Likewise, if they are the subject of an unresolved criminal complaint or unresolved disciplinary action in the state they need not apply. Finally, there are appropriate fees that the inspector must pay to obtain certification.

According to Sec. 08.18.023 of the Alaska State statute, Alaskan home inspectors must submit a written report that fulfills certain requirements. These requirements include: 1. Home inspector's registration number; 2. Scope of intended inspection; 3. Written notice of defects noted during the inspection along with a recommendation, if any; 4. Review of the condition of each system and component identified as being within the scope of the intended inspection; 5. Oral inspection report by the inspector; 6. In the case of new construction that is the subject of a loan by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation or another lender, an inspector's written report may be in the form required by the corporation or other lender, as indicated by the lender.

After completion of an Alaska home inspection the report is submitted to the person who requested it. Once the report is submitted, it remains valid for 180 days.

The law allows for civil action to be taken against home inspectors for one year from the date of the inspection and subsequent report. All inspectors must carry insurance and a $5,000 bond.

For more information, contact a local Alaska Home Inspector by clicking here Find Alaska Home Inspector. Enter the propery information for a free quote and instant local inspector search. This should be your first step in buying or selling your home!