Question 1

What are two elements that must be included in an inspection report when describing a basement?
A)Size and type
B)Size and whether or not it is finished
C)Type and whether or not it is finished
D)None of the above

Accepted Answer

Two elements that must be included in an inspection report when describing a basement are type and whether or not it is finished. Crawl spaces, cellars, and walk-outs are types of basements. A basement can be finished, unfinished, or partially finished.

Question 2

Which of the following observations is an appropriate way to describe the condition of a waste pipe?
A)Appears functional
B)Should be copper
C)Suggest replacing with brass pipes
D)Recommend new owners replace waste pipe

Accepted Answer

An appropriate way to describe the condition of a waste pipe is that it appears functional. You do not want to say it "is" functional because there may be a hidden defect. While it is appropriate to describe the material of a waste pipe, inspectors should not recommend replacing existing pipe for a specific type of material unless it is the only alternative. In this scenario, clients have multiple options when it comes to types of waste pipes.

Question 3

While inspecting the foundation walls of a home, you notice minor cracks. Since these are typical in homes, what is the BEST way to report your findings?
A)There is no need to write anything in your report.
B)Suggest that the "Foundation walls are dangerous and need to be repaired."
C)Recommend that the "Cracks need to be filled using mortar-based caulking."
D)Indicate that you "Observed common cracks with no leaking at this time."

Accepted Answer

While inspecting the foundation walls of a home, you notice minor cracks. Since these are typical in homes, the best way to report your findings is to indicate that you "observed common cracks with no leaking at this time". Even if a defect is common, you should include it in your report. Do not make exaggerated recommendations for repairs or unfounded claims of danger.

Question 4

When a basement is finished, you are only able to conduct a limited inspection. What is the BEST recommendation you can include in your inspection report?
A)Assume all foundation, plumbing, and electrical elements are safe
B)Obtain disclosure statement from seller to determine conditions in concealed areas
C)Hire a qualified contractor to determine conditions of concealed elements
D)None of the above

Accepted Answer

When a basement is finished, you are only able to conduct a limited inspection. The best recommendation you can include in your inspection report is for the client to obtain a disclosure statement from the seller to determine conditions in concealed areas. A qualified contractor will not be able to do more than you without dismantling the finished basement. And, inspectors should never suggest clients make any type of assumptions about safety.

Question 5

You are preparing to inspect the heating system when you notice the pilots are not lit. What is the appropriate response to this situation?
A)Light the pilot and inspect the heating system for deficiencies.
B)Suggest client have the heating system tested for asbestos.
C)Indicate in your report that an inspection of the heating system was not possible.
D)Conduct a visual inspection of the heating system.

Accepted Answer

You are preparing to inspect the heating system when you notice the pilots are not lit. The appropriate response to this situation is to indicate in your report that an inspection of the heating system was not possible. Be sure to give the reason why you could not inspect the system. Recommend the heating system be lit and inspected before the client purchases the home. Home inspectors should never light pilots.

Question 6

Which of the following factors can influence service life expectancy of components and systems?
A)Installation
B)Maintenance
C)Materials
D)All of the above

Accepted Answer

All of the above factors can influence service life expectancy of components and systems. Components installed improperly will wear down faster. Owners who keep up with maintenance schedules of components and systems find elements last longer. High quality materials can also extend the service life of components and systems.

Question 7

What is a PRIMARY benefit of galvanized steel pipes?
A)Resistant to corrosion
B)Easily placed in the ground
C)Made to withstand earthquakes
D)Long service life expectancy

Accepted Answer

A primary benefit of galvanized steel pipes is that they are resistant to corrosion. When other types of pipes are exposed to moisture or air, rust and other corrosive outcomes develop. That corrosion can reduce the efficiency of the pipes and impact water or air quality.

Question 8

What is the PRIMARY information you need to include in inspection reports pertaining to thermostats?
A)Size
B)Type
C)Model
D)Location

Accepted Answer

The primary information you need to include in inspection reports pertaining to thermostats is their locations. Home inspectors are required to identify the location of all operational controls, including thermostats. Your description can be as simple as "located on the south wall in the living room".

Question 9

Which of the following components of an air conditioning unit USUALLY has the longest expected service life?
A)Compressor
B)Evaporator coil
C)Condenser coil
D)Air filter

Accepted Answer

The condenser coil is usually the component of an air conditioning unit with the longest expected service life. Compressors can last up to 15 years. Evaporator coils often last around 10 years. Air filters need to be changed monthly or at least every six months depending on how frequently the unit is being used. Condenser coils can outlast these other elements by several years. However, it is important to know that once the condenser coil is no longer functional, the entire air conditioning unit has to be replaced.

Question 10

While inspecting the water heater, you notice rust at the unit's base. Which of the following descriptions is the BEST analysis of your finding?
A)Water heater is working fine so it should be operational for several more years.
B)Water heater is beginning to deteriorate and may need to be replaced soon.
C)Water heater appears to be leaking but the leak is slow and not harmful.
D)Water heater appears to be functional despite the possible leaking taking place.

Accepted Answer

While inspecting the water heater, you notice rust at the unit's base. The description that is the best analysis of your finding is that the water heater is beginning to deteriorate and may need to be replaced soon. The typical expected service life of a water year is around 12 years. When the unit's base begins to rust, it may be evidence that the water heater is leaking. Once water heaters start to leak, they cannot be repaired and need to be replaced.

Question 11

Flue liners are safety structures in chimney. Which of the following are reasons to use a liner to protect the chimney?
A)Rain
B)Condensation
C)Excess fuel
D)All of the above

Accepted Answer

Flue liners are safety structures in chimneys. All of the above are reasons to use a liner to protect the chimney. If the flue is not capped properly, rain will get into the flue. Condensation from water vapor that is produced by burning fuel can damage the chimney flue. Even using too much fuel can be harmful to the flue. A flue liner can protect the chimney against all of these conditions.

Question 12

Which of the following recommendations should be included in inspection reports on homes with chimneys?
A)Have a certified chimney sweep inspect the chimney.
B)Ask the seller to have the chimney cleaned by a professional.
C)Request a city code inspector review the chimney's condition.
D)Ignore the chimney's condition until there is an apparent problem.

Accepted Answer

The recommendation that should be included in inspection reports on homes with chimneys is to have a certified chimney sweep inspect the chimney. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends Level II inspections for chimneys when a home is sold. A certified chimney sweep has specialized training in chimney safety.

Question 13

Your pre-inspection contract states you do not inspect the operability of washers and dryers. What information do you need to include in your inspection report?
A)Nothing more needs to be said about the washer and dryer.
B)Operation of washer and dryer is not included with standard inspection
C)Safety concerns identified during the inspection
D)Both B and C

Accepted Answer

Your pre-inspection contract states you do not inspect the operability of washers and dryers. Information you do need to include in your inspection report includes both B and C. You should indicate that a washer and dryer were present but not operated during the course of your inspection. However, if you notice any safety issues, you should include those in your report. For example, you might notice the exhaust vent for the dryer is not attached correctly.

Question 14

While conducting an inspection, you notice a noise from the water heater tank. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the noise?
A)Iron buildup
B)Sediment accumulation
C)Mercury increase
D)Salt deposits

Accepted Answer

While conducting an inspection, you notice a noise from the water heater tank. The most likely cause of the noise is sediment accumulation. Recommend the tank be drained so the sediment can be removed. That should take care of the problem so the tank does not have to be replaced.

Question 15

What should your client expect from you specific to the inspection report?
A)Reports will always be distributed at the conclusion of the inspection.
B)If it is not to their liking, you will refund their money.
C)What is written in the report is the same as your verbal summary.
D)It will be shared with the owner and real estate agents.

Accepted Answer

Specific to the inspection report, your client should expect that what is written in the report is the same as your verbal summary. Some inspectors prefer to type their findings into a template report and then send the report to their client. However, most clients want to have at least a verbal report of major findings immediately following the inspection. It is your responsibility to ensure your verbal report and written report match in content.

Question 16

Which of the following test instruments would you NOT use during a home inspection?
A)Pocket penetrometer
B)Voltage sniffer
C)Thermal image camera
D)Firefighter flashlight

Accepted Answer

The test instrument you would not use during a home inspection is a pocket penetrometer. This tool is used to test soil strength. Builders use this testing instrument, but home inspectors do not need to test the soil strength since the home is already constructed.

Question 17

Which is a frequently overlooked reason not to walk on the roof during a home inspection?
A)It could be dangerous for the inspector.
B)It could void roofing warranties.
C)It is not necessary since you can do a visual review.
D)It is not required if the owner has disclosed defects.

Accepted Answer

A frequently overlooked reason not to walk on the roof during a home inspection is that it could void roofing warranties. If the home inspector damages the roof during an inspection, the roofing manufacturer has every right not to honor the warranty. Exclusions are usually outlined in the warranty.

Question 18

What should you write in your report if you believe your standard inspection is insufficient for identifying potential defects in components or systems?
A)"Unable to provide analysis"
B)"Condition of home is unclear"
C)"Unable to complete inspection"
D)"Further inspection is needed"

Accepted Answer

If you believe your standard inspection is insufficient for identifying potential defects in components or systems, you should write in your report that "further inspection is needed." You should also indicate the type of technician that should complete the comprehensive inspection. This type of recommendation is only needed if you suspect deficiencies.

Question 19

What aspects of a property MOST impact the structural integrity of the home?
A)Drainage
B)Grading
C)All of the above
D)None of the above

Accepted Answer

Both drainage and grading determine how much moisture reaches the home's foundation. By keeping water away from the foundation, the foundation lasts longer. Excess exposure to moisture increases erosion of the ground around the home and the foundation itself.

Question 20

What is the name of the component that redirects rainwater expelled by a downspout?
A)Water guard
B)Splash guard
C)Splash block
D)Guard block

Accepted Answer

The component that redirects rainwater expelled by a downspout is a splash block. Without a splash block, soil erosion will occur because all of the water from the downspout will concentrate in a single location. Over time, the power of the expelled water will erode the soil.

Quiz 1: Analysis Reporting

What are two elements that must be included in an inspection report when describing a basement?

Which of the following observations is an appropriate way to describe the condition of a waste pipe?

While inspecting the foundation walls of a home, you notice minor cracks. Since these are typical in homes, what is the BEST way to report your findings?

When a basement is finished, you are only able to conduct a limited inspection. What is the BEST recommendation you can include in your inspection report?

You are preparing to inspect the heating system when you notice the pilots are not lit. What is the appropriate response to this situation?

Which of the following factors can influence service life expectancy of components and systems?

What is a PRIMARY benefit of galvanized steel pipes?

What is the PRIMARY information you need to include in inspection reports pertaining to thermostats?

Which of the following components of an air conditioning unit USUALLY has the longest expected service life?

While inspecting the water heater, you notice rust at the unit's base. Which of the following descriptions is the BEST analysis of your finding?

Flue liners are safety structures in chimney. Which of the following are reasons to use a liner to protect the chimney?

Which of the following recommendations should be included in inspection reports on homes with chimneys?

Your pre-inspection contract states you do not inspect the operability of washers and dryers. What information do you need to include in your inspection report?

While conducting an inspection, you notice a noise from the water heater tank. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the noise?

What should your client expect from you specific to the inspection report?

Which of the following test instruments would you NOT use during a home inspection?

Which is a frequently overlooked reason not to walk on the roof during a home inspection?

What should you write in your report if you believe your standard inspection is insufficient for identifying potential defects in components or systems?

What aspects of a property MOST impact the structural integrity of the home?

What is the name of the component that redirects rainwater expelled by a downspout?