You’re thinking about becoming a Texas home inspector. It sounds like a great career move. But what hours are needed to get your license in Texas? It’s just a quick 194 hours! While you can get up to 80 hours waived with an approved affidavit, those TREC credit (80) hours make up the two most critical home inspection curriculum modules. We’re talking must-know info for passing the big national exam and doing the job right. Even seasoned pros need to master the textbook basics. Take the full training, ace the test, and set yourself up for home inspection success.
Understanding TREC Credit Hours for Home Inspectors
When becoming a home inspector in Texas, you’ll need to complete 194 hours of qualifying education. 154 of these hours are split into 6 modules of curriculum relating to the ins and outs of systems and components of a residential property. The other 40 hours are required to be done in person and these are referred to as “The Practicum” module. During the practicum you must collect 5 home inspection reports to turn into TREC in order to get your license. However, if you have at least 3 years of experience in a related field, like construction, you may be eligible for up to 80 credit hours. While waiving those hours may seem appealing, it’s not always the best move.
The 80 potential credit hours represent the Property and Building Modules 1 and 2, which provide fundamental knowledge for home inspectors. The National Home Inspector Exam draws heavily from these modules, so skipping them could put you at a disadvantage. Even experienced individuals can benefit from a refresher on residential structures and components.
Why the first 80 hours matter
The initial coursework introduces you to essential inspection concepts and procedures. You’ll learn about foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical systems, roofs, and more. This knowledge forms the basis for conducting thorough, professional home inspections. The modules also align with the NHIE content outline, so you’ll be well-prepared for the exam.
While work experience is valuable, formal education provides a structured learning experience. Overall, the full 194 hours will equip you with a solid understanding of home inspection principles and practices.
In the end, the choice is yours. But consider your long-term goals and priorities before waiving those first critical hours. The time spent now will pay off through a successful career as a Texas home inspector.
Should You Waive the TREC Credit Hours? The Pros and Cons
Waiving the 80 hours of required training in Property and Building Modules 1 and 2 may seem tempting, especially if you have experience in construction or a related field.
On the plus side, waiving the hours will allow you to complete your training more quickly and start inspecting homes sooner. You’ll also save money on course fees. If you have extensive knowledge of residential structures and components already, you may feel adequately prepared for the job without these introductory modules.
Read Also: How long is a home inspector training in my state?
However, the content in these two modules provides critical information for new home inspectors. The National Home Inspector Exam gets the bulk of their exam questions from these modules, so opting out could put you at a disadvantage when taking the test. Without a solid foundation in areas like roofing, plumbing, electrical systems, and structural components, you may struggle both in your inspections and in passing the exam. It is also possible to have different opinions on systems of the home. The national exam questions will be based on the specific topics and opinions in the NHIE book, so even with an expert amount of knowledge going into the test, unless you know their specific opinions on certain matters, then that knowledge won’t be helpful to you.
Overall, waiving any part of your home inspector education is risky and not recommended. The full 194 hours of coursework were designed to thoroughly prepare you for your new career. Why cut corners on your training when you’re trying to build a successful business or get hired at a successful company? Complete all requirements and you’ll start your home inspection career with the knowledge and confidence needed to provide high quality service to your clients.
Conclusion
So, while it might seem tempting to get those TREC credit (80) hours waived and jump right into home inspecting, take it from someone who’s been there – don’t skip those modules. I know they can feel redundant if you already have construction experience, but they really do cover key home components that will be on the test. Save yourself the headache and just take the full course. You’ll be grateful later when you’re holding that inspector license knowing you learned what you needed to pass on the first try. The last thing you want is to have to keep retaking that test and paying those fees over and over. I’m telling you, take advantage of those modules while you can!
