I think it is easy enough to prove that it is a sensible move just from the consumer aspect to put something in place. Even the industry wants to be regulated. The bill revamps the state board that governs real estate appraisers in the licensing department. It would add four members from the home-inspection industry as well as two additional consumer members to create the State Commission of Real Estate Appraisers and Home Inspectors. And for the first time in Maryland history, it would put to an end the practice of allowing anyone to act as a home inspector, regardless of qualifications.
Consumers typically use an inspector when purchasing a home.
Many real estate contracts require the use of a home inspector and make the sale contingent upon an inspection that satisfies both buyer and seller. Under current law, the only thing a home inspector is required to do is give each customer a disclosure that details the value and limitations of a home inspection. We were the only player in the whole real estate process that wasn't licensed. Ultimately, why we want licensing is to improve the profession, set standards and to ensure that people entering the profession are competent. It is not punitive.