State guide
Washington
Washington licenses home inspectors through the Department of Licensing under chapter 18.280 RCW. The licensing law created a phased transition: licenses could begin issuing July 1, 2009, and licensure became required beginning September 1, 2009.
Checked against official sources on October 4, 2026. Rules and links change; confirm with the office listed before you act.
- Licenses home inspectors?
- yes
- Regulator
- Washington State Department of Licensing; Home Inspector Advisory Licensing Board
- License lookup
- Official page →
- File a complaint
- Official page →
Official resources in Washington
Home Inspectors
Official Washington profession page for home inspector licensing, forms, exams, complaints, and laws.
Chapter 18.280 RCW
Official Washington home inspector statute chapter.
Exams: Home inspectors
Official DOL page summarizing Washington training and exam requirements.
Look up the status of a business or professional license
Official Washington professional license verification tool.
File a complaint against a licensed professional or business
Official DOL complaint page for licensed professions including home inspectors.
Key facts for Washington
- Washington requires home inspector licensure under chapter 18.280 RCW.
- RCW 18.280.020 says licensure is required beginning September 1, 2009.
- RCW 18.280.020 says the director may begin issuing licenses on July 1, 2009.
- New applicants need 120 hours of Fundamentals of Home Inspection plus 40 hours of field training.
- Washington requires passing the full exam for new inspectors; qualified out-of-state applicants take the state portion.
- DOL's FAQ says Washington does not require insurance or bonding for home inspector licensure.
What to do next
- Before hiring, use the DOL license lookup and confirm the inspector's license is active.
- If you are applying as a new inspector, complete the 120-hour course first, then arrange supervised field training with a licensed inspector.
- When filing a complaint, gather the inspection agreement, report, timeline, and supporting documents before submitting to DOL.
Helpful guides
- How to check if a home inspector is licensed
- Which states license home inspectors (and which do not)
- How to look up disciplinary actions against a home inspector
- How to file a complaint against a home inspector
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