A home inspection is a practical snapshot of visible conditions—not a warranty and not a prediction of every future repair. Use it to prioritize safety, understand costly systems, and decide which specialists to call.
What a general inspection actually covers
A typical inspection reviews accessible structure, roofing, attic, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and other visible components. Scope and exclusions matter: hidden pipes, concealed framing and inaccessible spaces may not be evaluated. In Texas, verify the inspector’s TREC license and ask about the applicable standards of practice.
Before the inspector arrives
Collect seller disclosures, past roof invoices, foundation repairs, HVAC maintenance records and permits when available. Make utilities and attic access available. Ask whether the inspector will operate HVAC equipment under current conditions and how inaccessible areas will be documented.
Foundation, grading and drainage
Look for standing water near the slab, negative grading, significant door or window binding, and cracks with movement patterns. Texas soils can expand and shrink with moisture; an inspector can flag symptoms but a structural engineer may be needed to determine causes and remedies.
Roof, attic and moisture
Review roof age and material, flashing, penetrations, gutters, attic stains, ventilation and signs of leaks. A general inspector may not walk a steep or unsafe roof. After hail or wind, a dedicated roofing assessment can help document damage without assuming insurance will pay.
HVAC, electrical and plumbing
For HVAC, ask about age, cooling and heating operation, condensate drainage and visible duct condition. For electrical, look for unsafe panel conditions and missing protective devices where applicable. For plumbing, check active leaks, water heater condition, fixture drainage and whether a sewer camera inspection is warranted.
Read the report by risk—not by page count
Sort findings into immediate safety hazards, active water intrusion, structural or major-system concerns, maintenance and cosmetic issues. Request estimates for the largest items before the negotiation or repair deadline. An inspector’s recommendation is a starting point for specialist evaluation.
Insurance inspections are a different question
A buyer’s general inspection is not the same as an insurer’s underwriting inspection or a Texas coastal windstorm compliance inspection. For eligible coastal properties, ask your agent whether TWIA eligibility and a WPI-8 or WPI-8-E certificate are relevant before starting roof work.
Questions worth asking your inspector
What could not be inspected? Which items are urgent? Which need a licensed specialist? What documentation should the seller provide? Is a reinspection useful after repairs? Ask for photos, clear limitations and a written report.
