A career as a home inspector in Texas is an exciting and rewarding opportunity. However, it’s essential to understand the minimum requirements that must be met before becoming licensed.

The first step in the process is completing the appropriate training courses. These include a national portion and state course modules.

Training

Individuals interested in pursuing careers in home inspection frequently inquire about specialized programs, such as an inspector certification program Texas, seeking comprehensive training and qualifications within the state’s standards and regulations.

The first step in becoming a licensed inspector in Texas is completing the appropriate education courses. It offers the required coursework in a live classroom or online and an exam prep course that increases your odds of passing the national home inspector exam on your first attempt.

Once you have completed the required education, it’s time to apply for your license. The state requires applicants to submit their exam scores, proof of financial responsibility, and educational transcripts. Applicants must also request a Fitness Determination to meet the licensure’s honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity requirements.

After you’ve obtained your license, it’s important to begin marketing your home inspection business. This will help set you apart from competitors, boost visibility, and grow your client base.

Examination

Taking and passing the inspector’s exam is essential to becoming a licensed home inspector. Once you have completed the pre-licensing courses, it’s time to take the state and national exams. The exam prep course helps you prepare for the exam and increases your chances of passing.

The apprentice license is the first level of licensing available in Texas and requires you to be sponsored by a professional inspector. The next step is the Real Estate Inspector License, which allows you to work unaccompanied but still under the indirect supervision of a professional inspector.

Texas has specialized licensing options like Water Quality Testing and Mold Testing. These add-on services can help you grow your business and provide additional value to your clients.

Continuing Education

Many licensed professionals, such as teachers, social workers, and doctors, must take continuing education courses to stay current on their work. These courses help keep their knowledge fresh and allow them to offer a better service to their clients.

To become a licensed inspector in Texas, you must pass the National and State Home Inspection exams. It offers a 194-hour Qualifying Education program that includes the National and State portions. The National portion must be completed before attempting the State exam.

The course is available online or live on campus. Students who thrive on traditional classroom instruction will enjoy attending in-person classes, while those who prefer at-home learning can complete the course online using virtual classroom technology. Once the course is complete, you must submit your certificates of completion, Inspector license application, and, if required, experience records for approval.

Insurance

Inspecting homes can be exciting and challenging. A good home inspector will work with clients to make their home-buying experience enjoyable and stress-free.

The first step in becoming a licensed inspector is enrolling in a pre-license education course at the School of Real Estate. Many include practicum hours to provide field training for inspections.

In addition to the education and examination requirements, some require E&O insurance coverage of $100,000 per claim and $100,000 aggregate. This is a wise investment that can protect you from potential lawsuits. The insurer will assign local, vetted, and specialized counsel to defend you when lawsuits occur. The right insurance can also help you build credibility with prospective home buyers.

Legal Issues

Getting your home inspector license in Texas isn’t easy. Multiple steps must be taken before you can start working as an inspector.

To start, you need to enroll in an approved home inspection school. Many schools offer online and onsite courses. These programs typically include “practicum” hours to provide you with hands-on inspection experience in real homes.

You must also pass the national and state exams. The National Exam has 200 questions and takes 4 hours to complete, while the state exam has 30 questions and requires 45 minutes to take.

After completing the exams, you must submit your education, experience, and application to them by mail. Before doing so, it is recommended that you take the 8-hour Inspector Legal & Ethics and SOP Review course.