Standard of Practice

The published document defining what a home inspection includes, what it excludes, and how the inspector reports findings.

Glossary

What is Standard of Practice?

A Standard of Practice is the backbone of a defensible inspection. It states which systems are inspected, that the inspection is visual and non-invasive, that it is a snapshot of conditions on the day, and what is specifically excluded — concealed components, buried lines, code compliance determination, and prediction of future performance among them. Whether you work under a state standard, ASHI, InterNACHI or another, the practical value is the same: it defines the boundary, and it is what protects you when a client asks why something behind a finished wall was not found. Reports should reference the standard being worked under.

Related terms

ASHIThe American Society of Home Inspectors, a membership organisation that publishes a widely referenced Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics for home inspectors.DeficiencyA condition that is not performing as intended, is unsafe, or is at the end of its service life — the general term many report forms use for a reportable finding.EIFSExterior Insulation and Finish System, a multi-layer synthetic stucco cladding that has been associated with moisture intrusion when installed without drainage.Four-point inspectionA limited insurance inspection of the roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems, most commonly required in Florida for older homes.

Browse the full home inspection glossary, or see how Hive Inspect turns findings like this into client-ready reports.