A complete guide to working as a home inspector in Michigan — no state license required, but professional certification, standards of practice, and recommended insurance still set the bar. Plus the software Michigan inspectors trust to grow their business.
| RECOMMENDATION | DETAILS | STATUS / RESOURCE |
| Professional Certification |
Voluntary, but the industry standard |
|
| Continuing Education |
Voluntary but recommended annually Michigan has no CE mandate, but national associations require ongoing training to maintain certification — typically 16–20 hours per year. CE keeps you current on building codes, materials, and inspection techniques — particularly valuable in Michigan where older housing stock surfaces issues newer inspectors haven't seen. |
|
| Liability & E&O Insurance |
Strongly recommended even though not required Michigan doesn't mandate insurance, but working inspectors typically carry general liability of $100K–$300K and errors & omissions (E&O) coverage of $250K–$500K. Most lenders, real estate brokerages, and home warranty companies require proof of coverage before referring you business — so insurance is functionally required even where it's legally optional. |
Recommended
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| Michigan Business Registration | Required for operating any business in Michigan Although Michigan doesn't license home inspectors specifically, you must register your business entity with the state to operate legally. Most working inspectors organize as single-member LLCs through LARA — filing fee is $50. Sole proprietors using their own legal name may be exempt; LLCs, corporations, and DBAs must file with LARA and stay current on annual reports. |
Required Register with LARA |
| HELPFUL RESOURCES |
| MI LARA — Business Entity Filing michigan.gov |
|
LARA Bureau of Construction Codes |
| Michigan Radon Program michigan.gov |
| NHIE-Michigan Page nationalhomeinspectorexam.org |
| MICHIGAN AT A GLANCE | |
| Pre-Licensing Education | Not Required |
| State License | Not Required |
| Liability & E&O Insurance | Not Required (Recommended) |
| Business Filing | Required (LARA) |
Join Michigan inspectors who use Spectora to schedule jobs, write reports, get paid, and grow — all from one place.
No credit card required
SAMPLE REPORTS
Spectora's reports are designed to meet standards — clear findings, photo documentation, and professional presentation that protects you legally and impresses your clients.
WHY SPECTORA
Michigan has more freshwater shoreline than any other state — and a lot of it has houses on it. Spectora handles waterfront inspections, lake cottages, and the rest of your work with one workflow.
From Inspection to Invoice in One Tool
Schedule inspections, sign agreements, write reports, collect payments, and manage your clients — all in Spectora. No spreadsheets, no chasing PDFs, and no juggling disconnected tools. Just one login for your entire inspection business workflow.
Inspect Anywhere — Online or Off
From lakeside cottages to U.P. cabins, Spectora's mobile app captures photos, voice notes, and findings on the spot, then syncs the moment you're back online. Your work doesn't wait on a cell tower — and your draft is already started by the time you reach it.
Automated Scheduling for Michigan Buyers
Half of Michigan's homes were built before 1970 — and buyers want answers fast. Online scheduling, confirmation texts, and automated reminders keep your calendar tight whether you're working Detroit, Grand Rapids, or Ann Arbor.
Grow Referrals From Detroit to the U.P
Automated Google review requests after every report, plus a referral source tracker so you know exactly which agents and clients send you business across Michigan — Detroit, Grand Rapids, and beyond.
Spectora is the #1-rated home inspection software. Start your free trial and see why Michigan inspectors run their business on Spectora.
No credit card required
Disclaimer: This page in intended as a general informational resource and does not constitute legal advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures are subject to change. Always verify current requirements directly with the MI Secretary of State before submitting your business application. Information last reviewed April 2026.
