This course describes both sloped and flat roof construction. Detailed descriptions and illustrations help to explain flashing details and the intersections that are often problems on roofs. Roof problems, causes and implications are identified for all of the common roofing materials. Included are sections on how to inspect roofs and what to watch for with various roofing materials.

All the structural elements of a building from the footings and foundations to the floor, wall and roof assemblies are addressed in detail. Elements of good construction are explained and illustrated, along with common failure modes and how to identify them.

This program starts with a description of house electricity and develops an understanding of the basics. The course moves on to address getting electricity into the house, and distributing it safely to its end-use points including switches, lights and receptacles. The course is designed to provide people who do not have an electrical background with the skills necessary to perform the electrical part of a professional home inspection.

This course provides an introduction to residential heating systems, starting with a description of fuels and then focusing on furnaces and boilers. Detailed instructions on operational tests, common failure modes and life expectancies of various systems are included.

The heating discussion is continued with a focus on chimneys, wood heating, fireplaces, steam heating, electric heating systems and space heaters. Each topic starts with a description of how the system works. Again, this course concentrates on inspection strategies, test procedures and problem identification.

These complex mechanical systems are broken down into simple components. The course starts with basic principles of operation and builds an understanding. Considerable detail is provided on how these systems fail. Upon completion, the learner is able to test and inspect air conditioning and heat pump systems as a professional home inspector.

The plumbing course is broken into four segments - supply piping, water heaters, waste piping, and plumbing fixtures. The physics of water is covered at the beginning in a simple, common sense way. Instruction on how systems work and common failure modes is provided. Again, the illustrations add significantly to the learning experience.

This subject covers retaining walls, grounds, window wells, lot grading, driveways, patios, walkways, decks, balconies, stoops and steps, porches, railings, wall cladding, flashing trim, eaves, soffits, fascia, as well as exterior doors and windows. Students learn to describe the exterior wall covering and inspect all aspects of the exterior named above.

Focus is on the inspection of thermal insulation, vapor retarders and ventilation systems, as well as the inspection of interior elements of residential dwellings such as walls, ceilings, floors, basements, doors, windows, interior stairs/railings, installed countertops and cabinets, and garage doors/door operators.

The professional home inspector is required, both verbally and in writing, to describe the inspection process and communicate inspection findings to the client. It is important that the home inspector be able to communicate clearly and effectively to ensure that clients understand the inspection results and the report. Students develop their oral and written communication skills, and learn the reporting requirements and proper conduct for a professional home inspector.