(a) Home inspectors shall exhibit honesty and integrity in furtherance of the honor of the home inspection profession. A home inspection has a direct and vital impact on the quality of life for all home buyers. In performing home inspection services, home inspectors shall adhere to the highest principles of ethical conduct.

(b) This Code of Ethics and regulations reflects the current ethical standards for home inspectors. It is the department’s intention that this document be a living document and that changes and updates to this Code of Ethics and regulations be made as deemed necessary by the department in consultation with the Home Inspection Council.

(c) Home inspectors shall fully adhere to and comply with the provisions of article 12-B of the Real Property Law and all regulations promulgated thereunder including, but not limited to, this Code of Ethics and regulations and the standards of practice.

(d) Home inspectors shall be required to cooperate with investigations by the Department of State. Each applicant or licensee shall be obligated, on request of the Secretary of State, to supply such information as may be required concerning his, her or its business, business practices or business methods, or proposed business practices or methods.