How to Get Your Arizona Home Inspector Parallels (and Start Your Career Right)

How to Get Your Arizona Home Inspector Parallels (and Start Your Career Right)

If you’re getting ready to start your home inspection career in Arizona, you’ve probably heard the term “parallel inspections.” They’re one of the final — and most important — steps to becoming a licensed home inspector through the Arizona Board of Technical Registration (AZ BTR).

At DoubleTree Home Inspection Services, we help new inspectors complete their required parallels at no cost. We know how hard it can be to get started in this field, so we make it easy to get the experience you need — without worrying about extra fees or confusing requirements.

If you’re ready to schedule your parallels, you can call or text us at (602) 326-7665 to get started right away.

Free Parallel Inspections with DoubleTree

Our goal is simple: help the next generation of inspectors succeed. We offer hands-on, one-on-one parallel inspections for aspiring home inspectors throughout the Phoenix area and beyond — completely free of charge.

During your parallels, you’ll ride along with an experienced, AZ BTR-certified home inspector. You’ll see real-world inspections, learn how to identify and document findings, and even get the chance to write your own reports for review and feedback.

Each parallel counts toward your official BTR requirement, so you’ll be building both confidence and credit toward your certification.

What Are Parallel Inspections (and Why They’re Required)

The Arizona Board of Technical Registration requires every applicant for home inspector certification to complete 30 parallel inspections under the supervision of a certified inspector.
This requirement is found in Arizona Administrative Code R4-30-247, which outlines the qualifications and steps to become certified.

A “parallel” simply means you accompany a licensed inspector during a full home inspection, observing and documenting what they do. You’ll then complete your own report and compare it to theirs to make sure you’re learning to meet the same professional standards.

These parallels are designed to bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world experience — giving you the chance to see everything from electrical panels and roof structures to plumbing systems and foundations in a variety of homes.

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Home Inspector in Arizona

Here’s a simple breakdown of the full licensing process with the Arizona BTR:

  1. Complete an Approved Training Course
    You’ll need at least 84 hours of classroom or online instruction from a BTR-approved provider. This covers everything from construction basics to report writing and professional standards.

  2. Pass the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)
    This is a standardized test recognized nationwide. You can register directly through the official NHIE website once your coursework is complete.

  3. Complete 30 Parallel Inspections
    Ride along with a certified home inspector (like the ones at DoubleTree Inspections) for 30 complete home inspections, submitting your reports for review and comparison.

  4. Submit Your Application to the Arizona BTR
    Once your parallels are done, you’ll send in your completed application, proof of education, NHIE score, and fingerprint clearance card.

Why Do Your Parallels with DoubleTree

At DoubleTree, we’ve trained and mentored many of Arizona’s top home inspectors. Our parallels aren’t just about checking a box — they’re about learning to perform complete, consistent inspections and apply classroom knowledge to real homes.

You’ll gain insight into photo documentation, field procedures, and how to properly evaluate and record conditions — things you can’t always learn in a classroom.

And because we believe in growing the industry, we never charge for parallels. You’ll get hands-on experience from working professionals who want to see you succeed.

FAQs About Home Inspector Parallels in Arizona

Do I need tools for my parallel inspections?
No. You’ll primarily be observing during your parallels. However, bringing a flashlight, notepad, and phone for note-taking or photos is always a good idea.

How many parallel inspections are required in Arizona?
The Arizona BTR requires 30 parallel inspections under a certified home inspector, as outlined in rule R4-30-247.

Can I get paid for parallel inspections?
Typically, no. Parallels are a learning experience — not a paid position — but the value you get in training and licensing credit is worth far more than a short-term paycheck.

How long does it take to become a home inspector in Arizona?
Most people complete the full process in 3–6 months, depending on how quickly they finish coursework, testing, and parallels.

Can I do my parallels with DoubleTree if I trained somewhere else?
Absolutely. You don’t have to take your courses with us to qualify for free parallels — we’re happy to help anyone working toward BTR certification.

Ready to begin? 

Call or text us at (602) 326-7665 to schedule your free parallel inspections.
We’ll guide you through what to bring, how to prepare, and how to make the most of every ride-along.

Spaces can fill quickly, especially during the busy season, so reach out soon to reserve your spot.
We’ve all been where you are — excited, nervous, and ready to start a new chapter. Let’s help you start strong.