South Carolina accepts the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) as one of its approved exams. Licensing is handled by the South Carolina LLR, Residential Builders Commission. Pre-licensing education: A formal course of training is one route to qualify. Insurance: Not listed in EBPHI's summary.
South Carolina requirements at a glance
| Exam | National Home Inspector Examination or the South Carolina home inspector exam |
|---|---|
| License type | Home inspector |
| Pre-licensing education | A formal course of training is one route to qualify. |
| Field training / experience | Alternatively, one year under a licensed home inspector or 50 residential inspections. |
| Insurance | Not listed in EBPHI's summary. |
| Continuing education | Not listed as required in EBPHI's summary. Two-year renewal. |
Who regulates home inspectors in South Carolina
South Carolina LLR, Residential Builders Commission
(803) 896-4696 · [email protected] · Official website
How to prepare for the exam in South Carolina
The NHIE is 200 multiple-choice questions (175 scored) with a 4-hour limit, and you need a scaled score of 500 to pass. It is weighted 70% Property Inspection, 20% Analysis & Reporting and 10% Professional Responsibilities, so weight your study the same way. Take a diagnostic practice test first, drill your weakest categories, and sit at least one full timed practice exam before test day.
Summarized from the state regulation summary published by the NHIE's exam board, checked October 2026. Licensing rules change, so confirm current requirements with the South Carolina LLR, Residential Builders Commission before you apply.