Becoming a Flooring Inspector
Flooring inspectors verify flooring materials and ensure proper installation methods. They interview installers and constructors, making certain that the proper steps were taken during installation. Inspectors also examine the flooring and sub-floor materials to make sure that those materials meet state and federal standards.
Flooring inspectors usually work full-time, primarily during business hours on weekdays. In the case of new construction, inspectors will need to wear protective clothing and gear in order to minimize exposure to personal risk. Most inspectors work independently, but may be asked to collaborate as part of a team on larger projects.
Career Requirements
Getting into this career requires a high school diploma. Formal training and/or formal training and/or comparable experience is typically required. Licensure or certification varies with location. Licensure or certification requirements may include field experience, state-approved exam, or minimum education level. Flooring inspectors receive much of their training on the job. They must learn the applicable codes and standards. Onsite inspections under supervision also may be a part of the training. Key skills include communication skills, being detail-oriented, having knowledge of all materials and procedures involved, and knowledge of applicable building codes. In 2018, the median annual salary of construction and building inspectors was $59,700, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Now let’s take a look at the different steps to getting into this career.
Steps to Becoming a Flooring Inspector
Step 1: Become familiar with floor coverings
Floor inspection workers need to understand the different types of floor coverings, installation procedures, and maintenance. Different types of flooring require specific installation preparation. For example, wood flooring and carpeting often require a sub-floor structure that meets state and federal building codes. Similarly, concrete floors may require metal mesh and rebar support structures to be in place prior to pouring the concrete. The particular purpose for each floor covering choice is another key issue inspectors need to consider.
Step 2: Gain Know-how and experience through apprenticeship or training
Knowledge of floor coverings maybe gained in a variety of ways. Aspiring flooring inspectors may begin informal work experience with flooring installers or inspectors. They may enter into a formal apprenticeship to gain knowledge and experience. Certificate and associate degree programs in building and construction inspection are not required, but they will help students better understand the field.
Step 3: Get training and certification through a flooring organization
In addition to postsecondary education, apprenticeships and work experience, aspiring floor inspectors may choose to complete a voluntary training program through an official flooring organization, such as Flooring Inspection Training Services (FITS), the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IIRCRC) or the National Institute of Certified Floorcovering Inspectors (NICFI). In addition to educational opportunities, these organizations offer certification options that could help flooring inspectors demonstrate competency and commitment to the field.
Step 4: Advance your career through specialization
Make yourself more valuable by getting a specialized certification. In addition to general industry certification, flooring inspectors can also achieve specialty certification in a specific type of flooring. For example, the National Wood Flooring Association offers the Certified Wood Flooring Inspectors title.
With some formal training or on-the-job experience, along with necessary certification or licensure, flooring inspectors can earn about $60,000 a year to verify flooring materials and ensure proper installation.
