Home Inspectors perform a visual inspection of both the structure and major systems of a home. Their observations are prepared as a report for a homeowner, or potential homeowner, so that appropriate decisions can be made about a home's purchase or repair.
A school is accredited when an outside body (an "accreditor" or an "accreditation agency") evaluates the school and determines that its educational programs meet the accreditor's standards. In the United States, accreditation is performed by private, rather than governmental, agencies, though legitimate accreditors are recognized by the either United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Many different types of schools offer home inspection training programs: Many junior colleges and trade schools offer training, as do some real estate schools. In some areas, there are stand-alone schools that specialize in home inspection education. In some cases, these programs are offered by schools that are accredited (such as junior colleges), though many home inspection programs are not offered by accredited institutions.
Not all states require home inspectors to complete a training program before getting their license. If you live in a state that does require that you complete a training program, it is likely that the state will have its own standards for home inspection education. Schools that wish to have their programs approved typically apply directly to the state's licensing commission or agency: Approval is usually based on whether the program's curriculum, materials, and instructors meet the standard set by state law or regulations.
Because state licensing commissions frequently take it upon themselves to approve training programs, it is very important that you not enroll in a school just because it is accredited. Always check with the commission or agency in your state to make sure it is on their list of approved education providers. Failure to do this could mean that you spend a lot of time and money on a program that is useless in helping you get your home inspector's license.