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CREIA has recently merged with ASHI

For more information please refer to the FAQ's below or check out ASHI directly (www.homeinspector.org)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Transition to the California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter

As CREIA transitions into the new California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter, we understand that members may have questions about what this means for their membership, credentials, and future involvement. Our goal is to make this transition seamless while preserving the legacy, standards, and professional reputation that CREIA has built over decades.
This partnership with ASHI strengthens our presence nationally while maintaining the local leadership, education, and advocacy that have always defined CREIA in California.

1. Is ASHI membership mandatory?
All current CREIA members will automatically be added to the new California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter to ensure a smooth transition and continued access to chapter benefits.

At the time of your CREIA renewal, membership in the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) will also be required to continue as a member of the California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter. This dual membership ensures that all California inspectors are part of a unified national organization while maintaining a strong, locally focused chapter presence. It provides access to ASHI’s national resources, benefits, and recognition, while preserving the education, networking, and advocacy programs CREIA has built in California.

2. Will this membership include CREIA membership?
Being part of the new chapter provides greater value and inclusivity than ever before, including:

  • Access to the new Young Professionals Meeting Group, connecting and mentoring the next generation of inspectors.
  • Expanded inclusivity for all ASHI member inspectors, affiliates, and educational speakers.
  • Enhanced networking opportunities across California and the western region.
  • Local chapters continuing as active meeting groups, maintaining the close-knit connections that CREIA members value.
  • More virtual meetings to support engagement and accessibility for members statewide.
  • Education, featuring top-tier instructors, technical sessions, and industry leaders.
  • Participation in the Annual ASHI World Conference, where members attending in 2026 will be incentivized with free ASHI membership—an added benefit to support member involvement and professional development.

This expanded structure offers more opportunities for connection, education, and recognition than ever before.

3. How much will the CREIA membership fee be?
The CREIA (California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter) membership fee will be separate from your ASHI national dues. This allows members to clearly see and support the value provided at both the state and national levels. The exact chapter dues amount will be announced prior to the 2026 renewal cycle.

4. Will CREIA still exist?
CREIA will continue to exist as the California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter, maintaining its legacy of leadership and education within a stronger national framework. This transition ensures continued local representation and the long-term sustainability of inspector education and advocacy in California.

5. Will we keep our earned designations?
Your current CREIA designations—such as CCI (Certified CREIA Inspector) and MCI (Master CREIA Inspector)—will continue to be recognized and honored by the California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter. However, these designations will not be recognized by ASHI National and will no longer be offered moving forward. Members seeking new or ongoing credentials will be encouraged to pursue the ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI) or other ASHI-recognized designations.

6. Are the CREIA Standards of Practice (SOPs) the same as the ASHI SOPs?
The Standards of Practice are not identical, but they are similar in scope and intent. Both emphasize professionalism, consumer protection, and inspection consistency. The ASHI Standards of Practice are currently undergoing a major modernization and update, with newly revised standards expected to be released in 2026. Once implemented, the California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter will adopt the updated ASHI Standards as its guiding standard for practice.

7. Will we continue to be able to use the CREIA logo?
As CREIA transitions from a standalone association to the California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter, a new state chapter logo is being developed to represent this next phase. The new logo will be available soon to all chapter members for use in accordance with ASHI’s branding guidelines. Current members should plan to update marketing materials once the new logo is released.

8. What will happen to all the work we’ve been doing through CREIA?
All the progress, relationships, and initiatives CREIA has developed will continue under the California ASHI-CREIA State Chapter. Our leadership remains committed to advancing the inspection profession in California and strengthening the Business and Professions Code to better support inspectors and protect consumers. By continuing to improve our state laws and standards, we strengthen the industry as a whole—ensuring greater professionalism, accountability, and public confidence in home inspection services.

For additional questions or information, please contact the Chapter Office at [email protected].