A career in home inspection offers flexible hours and good income potential. It also lets you help people make confident choices about buying or selling property. To become a licensed home inspector in Florida, start by taking a state-approved pre-license course.
At LEAP Academy in Orlando, FL, we provide the education you need. We also offer tools to help you succeed in this growing field. In this article, we will explain what the Florida Home Inspector pre-license course includes. We will also discuss why it is important and how to begin.
Who Needs to Take the Pre-License Course?
To do paid home inspections in Florida, you need a Home Inspector license. You can get this license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete a 120-hour pre-license course from a DBPR-approved provider
- Pass a state-approved exam
- Submit fingerprints and a license application
LEAP Academy is here to guide you through this process from starting to finishing.
What does the Florida Home Inspector Pre-License Course cover?
The 120-hour course helps you get ready for the state licensing exam. It also prepares you for daily tasks as a home inspector.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
1. Structure and Components of Residential Homes
This is the core of your training. You’ll learn how to inspect and evaluate:
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- Foundations and crawl spaces
- Framing and structural components
- Roofs and attics
- Walls, ceilings, and floors
- Windows and doors
You’ll also learn how to identify signs of damage, wear, or potential safety issues.
2. Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC Systems
A home’s systems are critical to its safety and value. You’ll learn how to:
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- Inspect electrical panels, outlets, and wiring
- Check plumbing systems for leaks, pressure, and functionality
- Evaluate heating and cooling systems for proper operation
These sections often involve visual inspections only—you’re not making repairs, just noting conditions and safety concerns.
3. Exterior and Site Conditions
This section covers the parts of the home and property you can observe from the outside, including:
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- Grading and drainage
- Driveways, walkways, and patios
- Decks, porches, and balconies
- Siding, trim, gutters, and downspouts
You’ll also learn how to spot signs of potential water damage, erosion, and structural issues.
4. Building Codes and Standards
Home inspectors do not enforce building codes. However, you should know basic code principles and standards. This knowledge helps you find unsafe or outdated conditions. The course will familiarize you with:
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- Florida-specific regulations
- National inspection standards
- Industry best practices
This knowledge is especially helpful when working with buyers, sellers, and real estate agents who rely on your expertise.
5. Report Writing and Inspection Software
A good inspector doesn’t just find issues—they know how to document them clearly. You’ll learn:
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- How to write clear, professional inspection reports
- Common tools and software used in the industry
- Best practices for organizing photos, notes, and recommendations
LEAP Academy includes real-life examples and templates to help you practice before you step into your first inspection.
6. Client Communication and Ethics
As a licensed home inspector, you’re responsible for providing unbiased, honest information. You’ll be trained on:
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- How to explain findings to clients without causing alarm
- Ethical boundaries (such as not offering repairs on homes you inspect)
- Building trust with clients and agents
Communication is key—especially when working in fast-moving real estate transactions.
How the Course Works at LEAP Academy
At LEAP Academy in Orlando, FL, we offer a 120-hour pre-license course online. You can study at your own pace from anywhere in Florida. No matter if you come from construction, real estate, or another field, we designed our training for you.
You’ll receive:
- Easy-to-follow lessons
- Real-world examples
- Instructor support
- Practice quizzes and final exam prep
Our goal is to help you pass your licensing exam and feel fully prepared for your first professional inspection.
Why Become a Home Inspector in Florida?
The demand for licensed home inspectors continues to grow, especially in high-transaction areas like Central Florida. With no college degree required, you can launch a new career in a matter of weeks.
Home inspection is ideal for people who:
- Enjoy working independently
- Have a background in construction, trades, or real estate
- Are detail-oriented and curious
- Want flexible income opportunities
Many inspectors work part-time, while others turn it into a full-time business. With the right training and certification, you can build a rewarding career in a stable, in-demand industry.
Your Home Inspection Career Starts Here
At LEAP Academy, we don’t just help you pass a test—we help you launch a career. The DBPR approves our Florida Home Inspector Pre-License Course. Students in Orlando and all Florida trust it.
We’re here to guide you from your first lesson to your first licensed inspection.
Ready to become a licensed home inspector? Enroll in LEAP Academy’s 120-Hour Course Today »
