Home inspectors; authorize home inspections on new construction without having residential home builders license.
Impact
The bill represents a notable shift in the regulatory landscape for home inspections in Mississippi. By removing the necessity for home inspectors to obtain an additional builders license, the legislation aims to facilitate the inspection process, making it more accessible for inspectors to operate in the new construction sector. This alteration may lead to increased competition among home inspectors and possibly lower costs for consumers seeking home inspection services.
Summary
House Bill 484 seeks to amend Section 73-60-27 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, allowing licensed home inspectors to perform inspection services on new construction for a fee without needing to obtain a residential home builders license from the Mississippi Board of Contractors. This change aims to streamline processes related to home inspections and potentially expand the scope of work that licensed home inspectors can undertake. The bill is positioned to take effect on July 1, 2025, if approved.
Contention
There could be points of contention surrounding House Bill 484, as the change may raise concerns about the qualifications of home inspectors in performing inspections on new constructions, which can be significantly different from existing homes. Critics may argue that the lack of additional licensing requirements could compromise the quality and safety of inspections, ultimately risking potential issues for homeowners. Furthermore, there may be pushback from builders and contractors who feel that the change in licensing requirements could undermine professional standards within the industry.