TREC 7-6 Report Template: The Complete Guide for Texas Inspectors

If you're a licensed home inspector in Texas, you already know: the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) requires you to use the REI 7-6 property inspection report form for every residential inspection. No exceptions. No substitutions. No "close enough."

The form was last updated effective February 1, 2022, and it's governed by 22 TAC Section 535.223. Using the wrong form—or a non-compliant version—can result in disciplinary action from TREC, including fines and license suspension.

This guide breaks down every section of the TREC 7-6 form, explains what TREC expects, and shows how InspectIQ has the entire form built into the software so you never have to worry about compliance again.

What Is the TREC REI 7-6 Form?

The REI 7-6 is a promulgated form, meaning TREC designed it and requires inspectors to reproduce it exactly. You can't redesign it, reorder it, or skip sections. The form covers six major systems, each with subsections that must be marked with one of four condition ratings:

• I — Inspected (no deficiency observed)
• NI — Not Inspected (and you must explain why)
• NP — Not Present
• D — Deficient (requires written commentary explaining the deficiency)

Any item marked "D" requires a written explanation. This is where most inspectors lose time—writing detailed, professional deficiency narratives for every issue they find. More on that below.

The 6 Sections of the TREC 7-6 Form

Section I: Structural Systems (12 Subsections)

This is the largest section. You're evaluating the physical structure of the home from foundation to roof.

• A. Foundations — Foundation type, adverse performance indicators (binding doors, sloping floors, cracks), crawl space ventilation and drainage
• B. Grading and Drainage — Surface drainage around the foundation, gutter and downspout systems
• C. Roof Covering Materials — Roof covering type, water penetration evidence, flashing, fasteners
• D. Roof Structures and Attics — Attic vantage point, insulation depth, ventilation, framing, decking
• E. Walls (Interior and Exterior) — Water penetration, cladding, fire separation between garage and living space, emergency escape openings
• F. Ceilings and Floors — Structural performance, water damage
• G. Doors (Interior and Exterior) — Hardware condition, self-closing garage door devices, fire-rated doors
• H. Windows — Fogged/broken seals, safety glass in hazardous locations, fall protection
• I. Stairways (Interior and Exterior) — Baluster spacing (cannot permit 4" object passage), handrail deficiencies
• J. Fireplaces and Chimneys — Creosote buildup, damper, hearth, chimney structure
• K. Porches, Balconies, Decks, and Carports — Deck spacing, accessible components, structural integrity
• L. Other — Anything structural not covered above

Section II: Electrical Systems (3 Subsections)

• A. Service Entrance and Panels — Service drop, grounding, panel condition, overcurrent devices, GFCI/AFCI operation, bonding
• B. Branch Circuits, Connected Devices, and Fixtures — Wiring type, smoke and CO alarms, receptacle testing, tamper-resistant outlets
• C. Other

Section III: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (4 Subsections)

• A. Heating Equipment — System type, energy source, thermostat, burners, combustion air, venting
• B. Cooling Equipment — System type, temperature differential (15-22°F), condensate drain, coils, refrigerant line insulation
• C. Duct Systems, Chases, and Vents — Duct condition, insulation, air flow at registers, filters
• D. Other

Section IV: Plumbing Systems (6 Subsections)

• A. Plumbing Supply, Distribution Systems and Fixtures — Water meter location, static pressure, supply/drain materials, functional flow, fixture performance
• B. Drains, Wastes, and Vents — Drain piping material, vent termination
• C. Water Heating Equipment — Energy source, capacity, T&P relief valve, combustion air, venting
• D. Hydro-Massage Therapy Equipment — Operation, leaks, GFCI protection
• E. Gas Distribution Systems and Gas Appliances — Gas meter, piping material, leaks, shutoff valves, bonding (including CSST), sediment traps
• F. Other

Section V: Appliances (9 Subsections)

• A. Dishwashers — Operation, backflow prevention
• B. Food Waste Disposers — Operation, mounting
• C. Range Hood and Exhaust Systems — Duct termination, material
• D. Ranges, Cooktops, and Ovens — Anti-tip device, thermostat accuracy (within 25°F at 350°F)
• E. Microwave Ovens — Built-in units only
• F. Mechanical Exhaust Vents and Bathroom Heaters — Ventilation in windowless bathrooms, duct termination
• G. Garage Door Operators — Photo sensors, auto-reverse, manual detachment
• H. Dryer Exhaust Systems — Metal duct with smooth interior, exterior termination
• I. Other

Section VI: Optional Systems (7 Subsections)

These are not required under 22 TAC 535.233, but if you agree to inspect them:

• A. Landscape Irrigation (Sprinkler) Systems — Zone operation, rain sensor, backflow prevention
• B. Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs, and Equipment — Construction type, main drain, barriers, GFCI, bonding
• C. Outbuildings — GFCI protection, structural/electrical/plumbing systems
• D. Private Water Wells — Pump type, pressure, septic proximity
• E. Private Sewage Disposal (Septic) Systems — System type, drain field location, aerator function
• F. Other Built-in Appliances
• G. Other

Where Texas Inspectors Lose the Most Time

The form itself is straightforward—check boxes, note conditions, move on. The time killer is writing deficiency narratives. Every "D" rating requires a written explanation that is:

1. Specific — What exactly is deficient?
2. Professional — Written in formal inspection language
3. Actionable — What should the client do about it?
4. Defensible — If challenged, does your narrative hold up?

A typical Texas residential inspection might have 15-25 deficient items. Writing professional narratives for each one takes 2-4 hours after the inspection. That's why many Texas inspectors are delivering reports the next morning instead of same-day.

How InspectIQ Solves This for Texas Inspectors

InspectIQ is the only home inspection software with the TREC REI 7-6 form built in as a native template. Here's what that means:

All 6 sections and 41 subsections are pre-loaded. When you create a new inspection and select the TREC 7-6 template, every section from Structural Systems through Optional Systems appears automatically. No manual setup, no importing a template file, no workarounds.

AI writes your deficiency narratives. Enter your field notes for each deficient item—"negative grading east side, water pooling at foundation"—and click Generate. AI writes the professional narrative: "A grading deficiency was identified on the east elevation of the property. The ground slopes toward the foundation, directing surface water against the structure. This condition should be corrected by re-grading to achieve a minimum 6-inch drop over the first 10 feet away from the foundation to prevent moisture intrusion."

Branded PDF reports with your TREC license number. Your company logo, license number, and digital signature appear on every report automatically.

Same-day delivery. Most Texas inspectors using InspectIQ finish their report on-site or within minutes of completing the inspection.

Getting Started

InspectIQ offers a 14-day free trial with no credit card required. Create your first TREC 7-6 inspection and see the difference.

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Or view a TREC 7-6 sample report to see what your clients would receive.