Home Inspectors: Heroes, Villains or Scapegoats?

CREIA Explains Who's on Your Side and Who's Not!

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. -- In its ongoing mission to inform and educate the public, the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA) reminds homebuyers and sellers, as well as all individuals involved in real estate transactions, that the services of a qualified and professional home inspector are unique in some very important respects.

[TABLE OMITTED]

Homebuyers and sellers are urged to retain the services of qualified inspectors trained and experienced in home inspection. It is also very important that the inspector be a member of a well-founded professional association such as CREIA. Established in 1976, CREIA is the largest and oldest state inspection association in the country. CREIA inspectors must adhere to CREIA's Code of Ethics and follow the Standards of Practice developed and maintained by the Association. Recognized by the State of California, these Standards of Practice 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 rigorous written examination of their knowledge of building systems and components, and complete 30 hours of continuing education each year. CREIA members can earn education credit through various sources, including monthly chapter meetings, educational conferences and seminars, and other approved activities. CREIA keeps records to ensure that members are complying with these requirements.

CREIA is dedicated to consumer protection and education. To locate a qualified CREIA inspector, call CREIA at 800-388-8443, or visit the CREIA website at www.CREIA.org.