2025-2027 Texas Inspector Legal & Ethics and SOP Review

This inspector legal & ethics and standards of practice review curriculum was developed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) with the assistance of a content writing group using information from publications, presentations, and general research.

The information is believed to be reliable, but it cannot be guaranteed for any particular individual or situation. Laws and rules discussed in the textbook may have been excerpted, summarized, or abbreviated. For a complete understanding and discussion, consult a full version of any pertinent law. Information in this textbook can change periodically. The authors and instructors are not engaged in rendering legal accounting or other professional advice. Always seek the services of a professional with suitable expertise.

This eight-hour course covers legal and ethical aspects of inspection practices in Texas, with an emphasis on TREC rules and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and their real-world applications. The course content serves the public interest by ensuring that consumers are protected by inspectors who know and comply with the requirements and laws, while helping inspectors uphold the professionalism and ethical reputation of the state’s home inspection industry.

Course highlights include:

• Key TREC Rule changes and applying them in your inspection practices
• Duties, responsibilities, and ethical practices of Texas home inspectors
• Documenting inspection results using the Standard Inspection Report Form REI 7-6
• Tips for writing reports that communicate useful, easy-to-understand details for clients
• Hot topics related to inspector succession, third parties, inspector tools and competency, and additional licenses for those looking to expand beyond the standard home inspection
• Managing requirements of and departures from SOPs
• Structural, HVAC, electrical, appliance, plumbing, and optional systems SOPs
• Activities to support recall of key concepts and hands-on practice and discussion with peers