Senate codifies home-inspection standards, creates civil remedy for negligent reports

The Senate moved a first substitute to SSB62, a bill sponsored by Senator Julander to set a state standard for home-inspection practice by incorporating ASHI guidance into statute and creating a civil remedy for consumers who receive negligent inspections. The sponsor said the measure does not set up licensure, fees, or a regulatory board; rather, it standardizes what an inspection should include and offers homeowners a civil avenue if inspectors materially depart from the codified standards.

Senators debating the bill voiced competing views. Supporters, including several real-estate and home-inspector groups, said standards reduce inconsistent inspection results and protect consumers from missed defects, citing the sponsor's personal example of inconsistent inspections that failed to detect mold and plumbing problems. Opponents warned the bill imposes new government standards on a profession and cautioned against regulatory creep, though the sponsor reiterated the absence of certification or licensing requirements.

The Senate approved the first substitute on a recorded vote of 24 ayes to 2 nays, moving SSB62 to the third-reading calendar.

What was said on the floor: - Sponsor: "I am not setting up certification... I am simply codifying standards so that there is some means of having a civil remedy." (Sen. Julander) - Opponent: "How far do you go when you regulate something? Don't we as individuals have some responsibility for our own homes?" (Sen. Jenkins)

Next steps: SSB62 will proceed to third reading and, if enacted, will standardize home-inspection reports and provide homeowners a civil remedy for negligent inspections without creating a licensing board.