If you’re buying or selling a home in Texas, one of the first questions you may ask is:
“Is a home inspection required in Texas?”
The short answer: No — Texas does not legally require a home inspection for real estate transactions.
But while inspections aren’t mandatory, skipping one can expose you to major financial and safety risks.
Below, we break down what Texas law says, why inspections are still essential, and how a professional home inspection protects your investment.
Are Home Inspections Required by Texas Law?
No. Texas does not require a home inspection for the purchase or sale of a residential property.
You can legally:
- Buy a home without an inspection
- Sell a home without an inspection
- Close on a property without ever hiring an inspector
However, most real estate professionals strongly recommend getting one — and for good reason. A home inspection is often your only opportunity to fully understand the condition of a home before closing.
Why Most Buyers Still Choose to Get a Home Inspection
Even though inspections aren’t legally required, they’re one of the smartest decisions a buyer can make.
A professional home inspection may reveal issues such as:
- Roof damage
- Foundation movement
- Electrical hazards
- Plumbing leaks
- HVAC problems
- Water intrusion
- Structural defects
Many of these problems aren’t visible during a typical showing. Without an inspection, buyers risk inheriting costly repairs — sometimes worth thousands of dollars.
Does the Texas Real Estate Contract Require an Inspection?
Texas real estate contracts do not require a home inspection.
However, they typically include an option period, which gives buyers a set number of days to:
- Schedule a home inspection
- Review the report
- Request repairs or negotiate
- Cancel the contract if needed
This period exists specifically to protect buyers. Skipping an inspection during the option period means giving up one of your strongest safeguards.
Can You Waive a Home Inspection in Texas?
Yes — and some buyers do, especially in competitive seller’s markets where they want their offer to stand out.
But waiving an inspection means:
- Accepting the home “as-is”
- Taking on unknown risks
- Losing negotiation leverage
Even in multiple-offer situations, many buyers still choose to get an inspection for peace of mind.
Do Mortgage Lenders Require Home Inspections?
Most lenders do not require a home inspection. They require an appraisal, which is completely different.
- Appraisal → Assesses market value and protects the lender
- Inspection → Assesses condition and protects the buyer
An appraisal does not evaluate safety issues, damage, or hidden defects.
Do New Construction Homes Need Inspections?
Yes — even brand-new homes can have problems.
Common issues in new builds include:
- Incorrect electrical wiring
- Missing insulation
- Poor drainage
- Roofing installation errors
- HVAC sizing problems
Texas does not require inspections for new construction either, but many buyers schedule:
- Pre-drywall inspections
- Final phase inspections
- 11-month warranty inspections
These inspections can catch issues before warranties expire.
What Happens If You Skip a Home Inspection?
Skipping an inspection can lead to:
- Unexpected repair costs
- Safety hazards
- Insurance complications
- Difficulty selling later
Once you close on a home, most issues become your responsibility — even if they existed beforehand.
What Does a Texas Home Inspection Include?
A standard home inspection typically covers:
- Roof and attic
- Foundation and structure
- Electrical system
- Plumbing system
- HVAC
- Windows and doors
- Interior and exterior components
You’ll receive a written report outlining findings, photos, and recommendations so you can make informed decisions.
How Much Do Home Inspections Cost in Texas?
Prices vary based on the home’s size, age, and location. In the DFW area, most home inspections start around $300 and increase depending on the property.
Compared to the potential cost of major repairs, it’s a small investment that offers significant protection.
Choosing the Right Home Inspector
When selecting a home inspector in Texas, look for:
- Proper state licensing
- Local experience
- Clear, detailed reporting
- Strong client reviews
- Professional liability insurance
A skilled inspector can identify issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Why Work with Size Up Home Inspections?
At Size Up Home Inspections, we serve buyers and sellers throughout the DFW area with thorough, unbiased inspections.
As a firefighter-owned company, we bring a safety-first mindset and a detail-oriented approach to every home we inspect.
Our mission is simple:
Help you understand the true condition of the property so you can make informed, confident decisions.
Final Answer: Is a Home Inspection Required in Texas?
No — but skipping one is rarely a good idea.
A home inspection isn’t about killing deals.
It’s about protecting people.
Schedule Your Home Inspection Today
If you’re buying, selling, or building in the DFW area, Size Up Home Inspections is here to help.
Book your inspection today and protect your investment.