What’s Included In A Home Inspection?

Frequently Asked Questions About What’s Included in a Home Inspection

What exactly is included in a home inspection in Texas?

A Texas home inspection is a visual evaluation of the property’s accessible systems and components. It generally covers structural systems, the roof and attic, exterior and interior areas, electrical systems, plumbing, heating and cooling equipment, and installed appliances. The inspector operates accessible equipment using normal controls and documents observed deficiencies in the inspection report.

Will the inspector check the roof, attic, and foundation?

Yes. The inspector evaluates accessible structural components, including the foundation, roof covering, roof structure, attic, grading, drainage, exterior walls, interior surfaces, doors, windows, ceilings, and floors. Some areas may not be inspected when they are inaccessible or when entering them could be unsafe or cause property damage.

Will the inspector test the plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and built-in appliances?

The inspector evaluates accessible plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, and installed appliance components included within the inspection scope. Equipment is generally operated in at least one mode using ordinary controls and typical settings when conditions allow it to be operated safely.

Does a standard home inspection include termites, a sewer scope, a pool, or sprinklers?

Not automatically. WDI and termite inspections, sewer scope inspections, pool and spa inspections, sprinkler system inspections, thermal imaging, and foundation elevation measurements may be separate or optional services. Ask which services are included when scheduling your inspection with Surety Home Inspections.

Can a home inspector find problems hidden behind walls or underground?

A standard home inspection is visual and non-invasive, so the inspector is not required to inspect conditions that are buried, concealed, or hidden behind walls, floors, ceilings, or stored belongings. However, the inspector may document visible signs that suggest further evaluation is needed.

Is a home inspection the same as a building code inspection?

No. A home inspection evaluates the general condition and performance of accessible systems and components at the time of the inspection. It is not the same as a municipal code-compliance inspection and does not determine whether every part of the property meets current building codes.

Does a home inspection guarantee that nothing is wrong with the house?

No. An inspection provides information about conditions that were visible and accessible on the day of the inspection. It cannot eliminate every homeownership risk, predict future failures, or guarantee that concealed conditions are absent. Buyers should read the entire report and arrange additional specialist evaluations when recommended.

What happens if part of the home cannot be inspected?

If a required system or component cannot be inspected because it is inaccessible, unsafe, shut down, or could be damaged by testing, the inspector should identify the limitation in the inspection report. The report may also recommend that the area or component be evaluated when access or operating conditions improve.