How to Become a Home Inspector in Texas

For many, a house symbolizes a haven of security and solace.

Nevertheless, a house genuinely transforms into a home when it’s inhabited.

Whether it’s during the construction phase, substantial renovations, or when homeowners decide to place their properties on the market, houses often undergo meticulous inspections to ensure their safety and overall condition.

Becoming a home inspector in Texas doesn’t entail a multitude of prerequisites, making this an opportune time to delve into this profession.

Home Inspector Job Description in Texas

It’s crucial to differentiate between a home inspection and a home appraisal.

A home inspection primarily focuses on identifying potential issues within the house, whereas a home appraisal determines the property’s value based on an array of factors.

In Texas, a certified home inspector does the following:

• Thorough examination of heating and cooling systems.
• Scrutiny of plumbing systems.
• In-depth assessment of the electrical system.
• Evaluation of the roof’s condition.
• Analysis of the structural integrity of the house.
• Identification of any damage resulting from fire, water, pests, or other external elements.

Following the inspection, the inspector compiles a detailed report, a document that can significantly influence the property’s appraisal and the speed at which it sells.

Based on the building’s age, specialized home inspections may be necessary.

This usually involves assessing the presence of termites, pests, lead, asbestos, mold, radon, chimneys, and other components, and often incur additional fees.

While there are no stringent prerequisites for becoming a home inspector in Texas, obtaining a license is a mandatory requirement.

Completing Your Home Inspector Training in Texas

In Texas, home inspectors fall under the jurisdiction of the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC).

Aspiring home inspectors must complete an approved training course.

The class has to be at least 154 hours long.

Furthermore, you’ll have to also have to complete 40 hours of practicum.

Let’s see where can you attend such classes.

Inspection Certification Associates

The ICA course costs $995.

It comes with the following benefits:

• Free report-writing software.
• A one-month InterNACHI membership.
• A one-year access to Edcetera Home Inspection (typically valued at $99).
• Flexibility in completing the course.
• Certification

Students will have to sign the Texas Course Student Enrollment Agreement before the class starts.

The practicum class is offered separately for $1,500, and it requires an appointment.

InterNACHI School

The InterNACHI School is the preferred option for prospective home inspectors.

Nearly all individuals aspiring to become home inspectors opt for InterNACHI membership.

Membership is available at an annual fee of $499 or a monthly subscription of $49.

Members receive valuable benefits, including marketing assistance and business support.

Additionally, they enjoy exclusive advantages, such as:

• Substantial discounts on insurance.
• Complimentary access to the House of Horrors.

It’s important to note that there are only two Houses of Horrors in the entire nation, so appointments are necessary.

Within these facilities, members have the opportunity to test various inspection tools, participate in meetings, and gain valuable experience.

Furthermore, InterNACHI offers comprehensive marketing and business support.

Passing the Licensing Exam as a Home Inspector in Texas

In Texas, there is a state-specific licensing exam for home inspectors to pass.

However, the nationally recognized exam is also mandatory.

Those who want to take these tests at the same will pay only $199.

Let’s find out more about these tests!

Texas Home Inspector Exam

This exam is available at any Pearson Vue testing center.

This test has 30 questions.

National Home Inspector Exam

The national examination has three main areas:

• Property and Building Inspection/Site Review.
• Analysis of Findings and Reporting.
• Professional Responsibilities.

The exam fee may differ depending on the testing location, and candidates must respond to 200 questions within a 4-hour time frame.

25 of these questions won’t count toward the final score.

It’s important to note that you’ll have to answer the 30 questions as well in a timeframe of 45 minutes.

In the event of a failure, candidates must wait for a 30-day period before they can attempt the exam again.

Insurance as a Home Inspector in Texas

Home inspectors in Texas are required to carry insurance coverage while practicing.

The policies you’ll need are:

• $100,000 – coverage for violations, per incident
• $100,000 – aggregate annual total

The proof you have the required insurance should be sent to TREC.

If you passed your exams, you now have to apply for your license.

TREC has the form you must fill out.

The application fee is $120 for Real Estate Inspectors and $130 for Professional Real Estate Inspectors.

If you want to keep your license active, you’ll have to complete 32 hours of continuing education every 2 years.

Home Inspector Salary in Texas

It’s natural to be curious about potential earnings when considering a career that involves training and examinations.

In Texas, the median salary for a home inspector is estimated to be approximately $54,167 per year.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of median salaries in cities across the state, please consult the table below.

Regional Salary in Texas

Home Inspector by State