Effective July 1, 2025, Iowa’s new home inspection law (SF 460) implements new legal requirements for the home inspection industry. While there is likely more that can be done in regulating home inspections for the protection of sellers and buyers, the Iowa Code now clearly defines who is qualified to perform inspections, sets conflict-of-interest prohibitions for inspectors, and establishes detailed disclosure and reporting requirements. These updates impact realtors, buyers, sellers, landlords, contractors and inspectors alike, with practical implications for transactions and contracts going forward.
To help you navigate these changes, we have prepared a concise informational guide summarizing the key requirements under the new law — including inspector qualifications, required report contents, prohibitions, insurance mandates and contract limitations.
Read the full guide (PDF), which details information on:
- Who is qualified to conduct a home inspection in Iowa.
- What prohibitions governing home inspectors regarding conflicts of interest.
- What disclosure requirements apply to home inspectors.
- What are the necessary contents within a home inspection report.
- What is allowed in a home inspection contract.
If you have questions regarding Iowa’s new home inspection law or general construction matters, please contact Jodie McDougal.
ShareholderJodie is a construction and real estate attorney who handles both litigation and transactional matters for her clients within the construction, real estate and landlord/leasing industries in Iowa and beyond.
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