Home Inspections in Houston & the Surrounding Areas

A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of a property’s readily accessible systems and components, performed in accordance with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Standards of Practice. The purpose of the inspection is to identify and report material defects observed at the time of the inspection.

Items commonly evaluated include the foundation, roof covering, attic and insulation, exterior and interior surfaces, plumbing, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning equipment, windows, doors, and fireplaces/chimneys where present.

The inspection does not include destructive testing, engineering analysis, code compliance determinations, or predictions of future performance. Concealed, inaccessible, or obstructed areas may be outside the scope of the inspection.

Most residential inspections take approximately 2–3 hours, depending on the size, age, and overall condition of the property.

To help your inspection go smoothly, please ensure all readily accessible inspection areas are clear. This includes access to the attic entry, electrical panel, water heater, HVAC equipment, and the crawlspace (if applicable). Clearing stored items away from these areas helps avoid limitations in the inspection.

Please ensure utilities are on (water, electricity, and gas where applicable) and that built-in appliances are available for normal operation. If you will not be present, arrange for access to the home (including gate codes) and secure or relocate pets for everyone’s safety.

A home does not “pass” or “fail” an inspection. A home inspection is an objective evaluation, and the report documents observed conditions and any material defects identified at the time of the inspection.

Most homes—especially older homes—will have items noted for repair, further evaluation, or maintenance. The value of the inspection is knowing what you are buying so you can make informed decisions.

In many transactions, you may choose to waive an inspection—but doing so increases your risk. A home inspection helps identify material defects that may not be obvious during a walkthrough.

Even newer or well-presented homes can have hidden issues. An inspection gives you documented information you can use to plan repairs, request further evaluation, and budget more accurately.

In Texas, home inspectors must avoid conflicts of interest. A professional inspector’s role is to provide an objective evaluation and written report—not to sell repairs.

If repairs or further evaluation are needed, the report will typically recommend the appropriate qualified trade or specialist (for example: licensed electrician, plumber, HVAC contractor, roofer, or structural engineer), depending on the concern. You remain free to choose the contractor that best fits your needs.

A home inspection and an appraisal serve different purposes. An inspection is focused on the condition of the home’s systems and components, while an appraisal is an opinion of value prepared by an appraiser for lending or valuation purposes.

Inspection findings may be used by buyers and sellers during negotiations, and some lenders or loan programs may require repairs for certain conditions. However, a home inspector does not determine market value and does not provide appraisal services.