What does a Field Inspector do?
Field Inspectors travel to various properties to evaluate the condition, check for damage and estimate the value. Insurance companies and lenders often use their services to keep an eye on the properties they have a stake in, such as homes insured by the company or properties financed through the lender. The Field Inspector collects information on the property on behalf of the company to see if they need to take additional action or to help the company establish a value for the property. This job requires a physical inspection of the property, which requires the Field Inspector to travel to the location. They also document what they find so they can create a comprehensive report. Field Inspectors can work as independent contractors, completing inspections for a variety of companies, or they can find a job with one company to handle all of their field inspections.
Field Inspector skills and qualifications
Field Inspector careers have specific skills the candidate needs to be successful. Some of the skills and qualifications you might expect include:
-
Understanding of building codes and common property issues
-
Strong writing skills and report-writing knowledge
-
Photography skills
-
Interpersonal skills
-
Ability to travel to job sites
-
Comfort with technology, including software and mobile devices
-
Organizational and time-management skills
-
Research skills
Field Inspector experience requirements
Many companies prefer Field Inspector candidates who have at least some experience in the position. However, it’s possible to land an entry-level Field Inspector job with relevant online training. Previous experience in insurance, lending, construction or property management can be relevant to this position.
Field Inspector education and training requirements
Most Field Inspector positions only require a high school diploma or GED. Some organizations might prefer candidates with an associate degree or bachelor’s degree. Many employers offer on-the-job training when they hire a new Field Inspector. Candidates can also complete training programs before applying for Field Inspector careers.
Field Inspector salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Field Inspector is $65,713 per year. It’s common to see variations in that amount based on location, company, experience and training.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Field Inspector isn’t what you need, you can browse these additional job descriptions for similar positions:
Field Inspector job description FAQs
What qualities make a good Field Inspector?
A good Field Inspector has a strong attention to detail so they’re able to assess property accurately. They need to be independent and able to work without much direction or supervision since they work in the field. These professionals also need to be able to inspect various spaces inside and outside of buildings, such as roofs, basements and crawl spaces.
Do Field Inspectors have different responsibilities in different industries?
The specific type and details of the inspection can vary depending on the type of company that’s hiring the Inspector. Insurance companies might need Field Inspectors to check the condition of a home after damage or verify repairs are made. Lenders might have Field Inspectors check the condition before closing a loan, when a homeowner is delinquent or after a foreclosure.
What is the difference between a Field Inspector and a Home Inspector?
Field Inspectors usually work for insurance companies or lenders, while Home Inspectors are often hired by home buyers. Field Inspectors look at the property overall, come up with a general value and document the condition. Home Inspectors often do a more detailed inspection of all the home’s systems and structures to look for issues that a buyer needs to know.
How can you make your Field Inspector job description stand out?
When hiring a Field Inspector, write a job description that details the specific duties of the Inspector, as they can vary. Describe the types of inspections they’ll perform and what type of reporting or follow-up the position requires. Include the geographical area and any perks you offer, such as providing a tablet to use in the field.
*Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your recruiting or legal advisor, we are not responsible for the content of your job descriptions, and none of the information provided herein guarantees performance.
