The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is the oldest and leading non-profit professional association for independent home inspectors. Since its formation in 1976, ASHI's "Standard of Practice" has severed as the home inspector's performance guideline, universally recognized and accepted by professional and government authorities alike. ASHI Members subscribe to a professional "Code of Ethics" that prohibits them from engaging in conflict of interest activities, which might compromise their objectivity. This is the consumer's assurance that the inspector will not, for example, use the inspection to solicit repair work. In order to assist home inspectors in furthering their education, ASHI sponsors a number of technical seminars and workshops throughout the year, often in cooperation with one of the nearly 50 Chapters. ASHI also serves as a public interest group by providing accurate and helpful consumer information to home buyers on home purchasing and home maintenance.