Service overview
You need a Home Inspector’s License to perform home inspections in Philadelphia.
You don’t need this license if you are:
- A professional architect licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
- An engineer licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
- An employee acting on behalf of a government agency.
Who
Individuals can apply for this license.
Requirements
Other licenses and registrations
Age minimum
You must be at least 18 years old to qualify for this license.
Insurance
All insurance must be submitted on a Certificate of Insurance and include minimum amounts.
- Commercial General Liability (including products and completed operations): $100,000 per occurrence with $500,000 total and deductibles of $2,500 or less.
- Automobile Liability Insurance: $100,000
- Workman’s Compensation:
- $100,000 per accident
- $100,000 per employee
- $500,000 policy limit
- Professional Liability Insurance: $100,000 per occurrence with $500,000 total and deductibles of $2,500 or less.
Testing and Certification
You must be certified by a nationally-recognized professional organization. The organization needs to be approved by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I).
The current approved agencies are:
Proof of employment
If you are not self-employed, submit a statement of current or prospective employment. This statement must be on company letterhead and signed by the employer.
Photo identification
- 2 in. x 2 in., color
Tax compliance
You must be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes.
Where and when
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Cost
A non-refundable application fee of $20 is applied toward the license fee. The balance of the license fee is due once your application is approved.
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How
You can apply for this license online using eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
Online
Applications are reviewed within five business days.
If the application isn’t approved, you will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
In person
L&I can review most applications while you wait.
Renewal requirements
This license must be renewed every three years. You can renew online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
To renew your license, you must:
- Be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes and fines.
- Have proof of an active insurance policy.