S.B. No. 1202 amends the Local Government Code to introduce provisions for third-party review and inspection of development documents related to home backup power installations. The bill defines "home backup power installation" and allows certain qualified individuals, such as authorized reviewers, electrical inspectors, and licensed master electricians, to review development documents and conduct inspections without needing to submit these to the regulatory authority. Additionally, it mandates that regulatory authorities must post necessary information online and provide it upon request, and it establishes that if they fail to do so, they cannot charge fees for approvals or permits related to these installations.
The bill also outlines the responsibilities of individuals conducting reviews or inspections, including the requirement to notify the regulatory authority of the results within 15 days. It allows for the use of automated software in the review process and specifies that regulatory authorities are not liable for third-party reviews or inspections, while the reviewing individuals are liable for any negligent acts. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.