A Texas licensed professional home inspection is a thorough, non-invasive evaluation of a residential property’s condition, conducted by a licensed professional home inspector in accordance with standards set by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). The inspection assesses the property’s major systems and components to identify defects, safety issues, or areas needing repair, providing buyers, sellers, or homeowners with a detailed report to inform decision-making.

Key Aspects of a Texas Licensed Professional Home Inspection:

1. Licensing Requirements:
   - Inspectors must be licensed by TREC, which requires completing approved education (e.g., 194 hours for a             Professional Inspector license), passing the National Home Inspector Examination, and meeting experience           requirements (e.g., 200 inspections as an apprentice or real estate inspector under supervision).
   - Inspectors must adhere to TREC’s Standards of Practice (SOPs), outlined in the Texas Administrative Code,           Title 22, Part 23, Chapter 535, Subchapter R.

2. Scope of the Inspection:
   The inspection covers the following systems and components, as required by TREC SOPs:
   - Structural Systems: Foundation, grading/drainage, roof, walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, fireplaces, and       chimneys.
   - Electrical Systems: Service entrance, panels, branch circuits, outlets, switches, and fixtures.
   - HVAC Systems: Heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, including furnaces, air conditioners, and ductwork.
   - Plumbing Systems: Water supply, fixtures, drains, water heaters, and gas distribution systems.
   - Appliances: Built-in appliances like dishwashers, ranges, ovens, microwaves, and garbage disposals.
   - Optional Systems (if present): Pools, spas, sprinkler systems, outbuildings, outdoor kitchens, or other specific          features (additional fees may apply).
   - The inspection is visual and non-invasive, meaning inspectors do not move furniture, remove panels, or                  perform destructive testing unless specified.

3. What It Includes:
   - Visual Assessment: Inspectors examine accessible areas for visible defects, wear, or safety hazards.
   - Performance Evaluation: Systems are tested for basic functionality (e.g., turning on HVAC units, checking                water flow).
   - Report: A detailed written report is provided, typically within 24-48 hours, including:
          - Descriptions of observed conditions.
          - Identification of deficiencies (e.g., leaks, faulty wiring, structural cracks).
          - Recommendations for repairs or further evaluation by specialists (e.g., structural engineers).
          - Photos documenting issues.
   - The report follows TREC’s mandatory format.

4. What It Does Not Include:
   - Code compliance checks (though inspectors note safety issues).
   - Cosmetic issues (e.g., paint or carpet wear).
   - Predictions of future conditions or remaining lifespan of components or systems.
   - Testing for environmental hazards (e.g., mold, asbestos, lead.
   - Accessing inaccessible areas (e.g., crawlspaces too small to enter safely).

   - Inspector is not required to inspect: components, systems, or areas which, in the inspector opinion, is unsafe         to access, open, walk on or enter into.

5. Process and Duration:
   - Typically lasts 2-5 hours, depending on the property’s size, age, and condition.
   - Clients are encouraged to arrive at the end of the inspection to ask questions and gain insights directly from          the inspector.
   - Inspectors use tools like moisture meters (optional equipment), infrared cameras (optional equipment),                   electrical testers, and ladders to access and assess components or systems.

6. Cost:
   - Varies based on location, home size, and additional services.
   - Additional services (e.g., infrared scans, septic inspections, pool inspection) inspected for additional cost.

7. Purpose and Benefits:
   - Helps buyers make informed purchase decisions by identifying potential repair costs.
   - Assists sellers in addressing issues before listing to improve marketability.
   - Provides homeowners with maintenance insights to prevent costly repairs.
   - Required in some real estate transactions or mortgage processes.

8. Regulations and Standards:
   - Governed by TREC’s SOPs (22 TAC §535.227-535.233).
   - Inspectors must carry Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance for consumer protection.
   - Reports must clearly distinguish between “Inspected,” “Not Inspected,” “Not Present,” or “Deficient” for each         component.
   - Inspectors must avoid conflicts of interest (e.g., cannot perform repairs on a home they inspect).

9. Consumer Protections:
   - Clients can file complaints with TREC if the inspector fails to meet SOPs or acts unethically.
 
10. Finding a Licensed Inspector:
    - Verify licensure through TREC’s website (search by name or license number).
    - Look for inspectors with professional affiliations or additional certifications (e.g. infrared thermography).
    - Check reviews or ask for sample reports to assess thoroughness.


For more details or to verify an inspector’s license, visit TREC’s website (www.trec.texas.gov).