Ask to See the CREIA Badge!; How to Identify Professional Home Inspectors in California.

Business Editors & Real Estate Writers

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PALM SPRINGS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 31, 2003

The name that appears on the badge identifies that person as a qualified Inspector Member of the California Inspection Association.

It is a badge of distinction as it identifies that inspector as having successfully passed a comprehensive written examination of property systems and who has maintained a minimum 30 hours of continuing education each year. The badge ensures REALTORS(R) and consumers that the Inspector has been tested and qualified to CREIA's Standards of Practice. It further is a badge of honor as CREIA's Code of Ethics requires a high degree of professionalism and integrity, and that an Inspector member act fairly and impartially. Any conflict of interest activity must be avoided in order to assure the consumer a completely objective inspection.

Specifically, CREIA members may NOT: (a) use the inspection as a vehicle to obtain repair or related work on the building; (b) reveal the contents of an inspection report to anyone but the client without the client's consent; (c) be involved in any real estate activity from which they might benefit financially as a result of their inspection work; (d) offer an opinion or evaluation on any subject which they are not sufficiently familiar and experienced.

Many inspectors claim to be CREIA members or claim their reports meet or follow CREIA's Standards of Practice. Do not be fooled; ask to see the CREIA BADGE. Only inspectors who meet CREIA's rigorous professional and educational requirement may qualify as members. At the bottom of the badge you will see a date that the membership is good through. Only a membership badge with a current date signifies the member as a current member in good standing. Ask your inspector to SHOW THE CREIA BADGE.

Since 1976, CREIA, a non-profit voluntary membership organization has been providing education, training, and support services to the real estate inspection industry and to the public. Inspectors must adhere to CREIA's Code of Ethics and follow the Standards of Practice developed by the association. These Standards of Practice have been recognized by the State of California, and are considered the source for Home Inspector Standard of Care by the real estate and legal communities.

CREIA requires its members to successfully pass a written test of property systems and complete 30 hours of education each year. Members can accumulate credits through various sources of education including monthly chapter meetings, conferences, and other approved activities. CREIA keeps records to ensure that members are complying with the requirements. Educational topics cover a variety of technical subjects including updates and advances that affect property inspection and the business of real estate inspection. CREIA is dedicated to consumer protection and education. To locate a qualified CREIA inspector near you, call CREIA at 800/388-8443, or visit the CREIA Web site at www.CREIA.com.

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