What is a real estate inspector?

Texas licenses inspectors under Chapter 1102 of its Occupations Code. Section 1102.001 defines a real estate inspection as a written or oral opinion on the condition of a property's improvements. That covers structure, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems, and equipment.

The same section defines three kinds of inspector. A professional inspector is trained to do real estate inspections and takes jobs from buyers and sellers. A real estate inspector does the same work under the indirect supervision of a professional inspector. An apprentice inspector is in training under direct supervision.

Every tier needs $100,000 of professional liability insurance or a $100,000 bond. A real estate inspector pays a $100 application fee and renews every 2 years for $50, with 32 hours of continuing education. The Texas Real Estate Commission issues all three licenses. For the Texas rule on an inspector who is also a real estate agent, see can a real estate agent be a home inspector.

The usual path to a professional license runs through this tier. A licensed real estate inspector sponsored by a professional inspector finishes 134 hours of education and logs 12 months and 175 inspections. The other path skips the experience and takes 194 hours, including a 40-hour Texas practicum.

For the courses, fees, and exam in full, see how to become a home inspector in Texas and the Texas home inspector courses guide.

Most states call the license a home inspector license. Some, such as Delaware, add a trainee step before it. A few, such as California and Colorado, have no state license at all. For the rule where you live, see home inspector license requirements by state. For the difference between a state license and an association credential, see home inspector certification vs. license.