NOFMA’s program is by far the most comprehensive and credible of any wood flooring inspector certification program that exists. NOFMA’s certified wood-flooring inspectors must undergo extensive training in all aspects having to do with manufacturing standards, installation guidelines and procedures, and performance of wood flooring. Once Inspectors have been trained and have passed the examination, they must prove their ability by submitting written reports for review as well as schedule a series of supervised field inspections.

The five-day course is currently limited to 20 participants. The course is intended for floor covering inspectors, home inspectors, and those in wood flooring related businesses interested in expanding the depth of their expertise. The CWFI course includes sections on wood technology, NOFMA wood flooring specifications, review of installation and finishing, wood flooring complaints and their causes, inspection procedures, and report writing. It will also involve a trial inspection and review of inspection reports.

Pre-requisites for the course include a minimum of high school education plus two years of college with at least three years experience as a floor covering inspector, wood flooring distributor, wood flooring manufacturer, wood flooring contractor or building/remodeling contractor. In addition, candidates must have received a Certificate of Completion for the NOFMA/NWFA/MFMA Hardwood Flooring Installation School offered twice yearly.

Those who achieve these steps must then complete a minimum six-month probationary period before NOFMA certification will be issued. Once issued, the certification will be effective for two years, after which it must be maintained through renewal fee, continuing education, and practice in the flooring inspection field.

Tuition cost is $2,500 upon notification of application approval. Those who successfully complete the course will have the opportunity to become NOFMA Certified Wood Flooring Inspectors (NOFMA CWFI).

To register, dowload the CWFI Registration Packet and submit completed forms by mail to NOFMA.