Engaging the Next Generation

The home inspection industry is at a pivotal moment. Long known as a second-career profession, it has benefited from experienced professionals entering from construction, trades, and real estate. However, that same trend has created a demographic imbalance that now presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

Today, the average home inspector is in their mid-50s. Roughly 80% of inspectors are over the age of 40, while fewer than 5% are under 30. As a significant portion of the workforce approaches retirement, the industry must address an urgent question: Who will replace them?

This gap presents a powerful opportunity for the next generation. Younger inspectors entering the field today are positioned to benefit from strong demand, reduced long-term competition, and increased opportunities for leadership and business ownership. At the same time, experienced inspectors have a unique opportunity to build scalable operations, develop teams, and create businesses with transferable value.

Organizations like ASHI play a critical role in maintaining industry standards, advocacy, and professional identity. Without strong engagement, the industry risks fragmentation, leaving individual inspectors vulnerable to external pressures. Supporting the next generation is essential to preserving the strength and credibility of the profession.

While there are an estimated 12,000 to 18,000 inspection companies in the US, production is concentrated among a smaller percentage of firms. Larger multi-inspector companies continue to grow, highlighting the importance of strategy and scalability. Inspectors must decide whether to remain solo operators or build systems that allow for growth.

Technology is accelerating change across industry. From AI-assisted reporting tools to customer relationship management systems and automated scheduling, inspectors now have access to tools that dramatically improve efficiency and client experience. Those who adopt these tools will gain a competitive advantage, while those who resist risk falling behind.

Equally important is a shift in mindset. Success today requires more than technical expertise. Inspectors must view themselves as business owners, marketers, and communicators. This broader perspective enables long-term growth and sustainability.

Despite advancements in digital marketing, relationships remain the foundation of success. Real estate professionals continue to be a primary source of referrals. Building trust requires clear communication, professionalism, and the ability to educate clients without unnecessarily disrupting transactions.

Growth does not always require major changes. Adding just two inspections per week can generate approximately $50,000 in additional annual revenue for a business owner. Small, consistent improvements can have a significant financial impact. 

Mentorship is another critical component of the industry’s future. New inspectors benefit from guidance and support, while experienced professionals have the opportunity to shape the next generation and leave a lasting legacy. Strong mentorship programs can help bridge the generational gap and accelerate development across the profession.

The home inspection industry is not declining; it is evolving. A generational transition is underway, bringing new perspectives, technologies, and opportunities. Those who engage, adapt, and lead will define the future of the profession.

To ensure continued success, inspectors should engage with professional organizations, invest in technology, build strong relationships, and think strategically about growth. The next generation is already here. The responsibility now lies in supporting and empowering them to lead the industry forward.

Join the Next Generation

We invite you to take the next step in shaping the future of the home inspection industry.

If you are a newer inspector—or simply interested in supporting the next generation—we encourage you to join us at our upcoming Young Professionals Network webinar.

This is an opportunity to:

Connect with peers across the industry

Engage in mentorship and leadership development

Share ideas and help drive the future of the profession

Whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience sharing, your voice matters.

Stay Connected & Sign Up

To participate in upcoming webinars, become part of the Young Professionals Network, or simply learn more, email ckerr@morrisoninspects.com or william@morrisoninspects.com. By joining, you’ll gain access to future events, collaboration opportunities, and ongoing discussions designed to support growth at every stage of your career. The strength of this industry depends on those willing to engage, contribute, and lead. We look forward to connecting with you.

William Morrison grew up in Los Angeles and currently serves as Chairman of ASHI’s Young Professionals Network Committee. At just 26 years old, he has already built six years of full time experience in the inspection industry and has performed more than 3,000 inspections. He works for his family business, Morrison Plus Property Inspections, where his experience includes commercial and residential inspections, insurance renewal inspections, and, as of this year, Level 2 chimney inspections. Morrison is an ACI, F.I.R.E. Certified, holds an FAA Part 107 license, and has completed the CDW Commercial Building Inspection Course. 

Chase Kerr was born and raised in Southern California and worked for Morrison Plus Property Inspections in Glendora, California, for three years, where he led the marketing team to help grow overall market share for their home inspection services. Simultaneously, he took on a franchise sales role, guiding home inspection entrepreneurs to open their own Morrison Franchise locations. After a brief hiatus working in the construction sales industry, he returned to the Morrison brand as his own franchise owner in the Boise, Idaho market, alongside his wife, Natalie, and a soon-to-be-expanded team. Chase currently serves as vice chair of ASHI’s YPN committee.