Under the Texas Real Estate Commission SOP, It’s a visual examination of a house’s structure and systems such as;
Structural components like foundation, roof, walls, windows, fire places etc.. Electrical Systems such as entrance panels, sub panels, distribution, outlets, switches, lights, smoke detection, HVAC; Heat , cooling, and ducting Plumbing Systems; pressure, bibs, leaks, sinks, baths, drains, and water heating equipment
Appliances; dishwasher, disposal, stove vent, range/oven, microwave, bath/kitchen vents, garage opener Other Optional Systems such as sprinklers, detached structures, private well/septic systems, swimming pools.
Keep in mind that the inspector examines only what is visible and accessible. He’s not moving appliances or climbing onto a steeply pitched roof. He will report cracks in a wall but won’t be able to examine a slab foundation underneath wall-to-wall carpet or hardwood floors. Your inspector may find an issue that you would like inspected by a specialist, such as a structural engineer.
The inspection standards, TREC SOP can be found here; click here.