CAHPI National Exam (CNE) flashcards

31 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Readily accessible

A condition where a system or component can be observed without moving stored goods, dismantling, or destructive action. Concealed or obstructed areas are outside the inspection scope.

Visual non-invasive inspection

An inspection performed by observation of installed systems using normal operating controls, without dismantling or destructive testing. It is not technically exhaustive or a code-compliance audit.

Scope of standards inspection

The standard covers structure, exterior, roofing, plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, interior, insulation and ventilation, and fireplaces. Environmental and underground items are typically excluded.

Roof access limitation

Inspectors are not required to walk on a roof. When safe access is unavailable, the roof is observed from ground, eaves, or windows and the method is disclosed in the report.

Reportable condition

A condition that is a safety hazard, a material defect, a system near or beyond service life, or a component not functioning as intended. Cosmetic items are generally not reportable.

Excluded systems

Items commonly outside the standard include septic systems, wells, pools, underground components, and environmental testing such as mold, radon, and asbestos unless specifically contracted.

Limitations disclosure

The report must state conditions that limited the inspection, such as stored goods, locked areas, weather, or inaccessible components, so the client understands what was not observed.

Duty to client

The inspector's primary obligation is to the client. Findings must be reported honestly and objectively, without favoring agents, sellers, or referral sources.

Conflict of interest

A situation where the inspector has a personal or financial interest in the property or transaction. It must be disclosed in writing before the engagement is accepted.

Undisclosed referral compensation

Accepting fees or compensation from parties with a stake in the transaction without written disclosure and consent violates the code of ethics.

Confidentiality of report

Report contents and client information are not shared with third parties without client consent, except where required by law or in a legal proceeding.

Competence limitation

An inspector accepts only work within their training and experience. Where a condition exceeds that competence, the limitation is disclosed and a qualified specialist is recommended.

Truthful advertising

Public statements about qualifications, credentials, and services must be accurate and not misleading. False or unverifiable claims about competitors are prohibited.

Continuing education obligation

Inspectors must maintain and update their knowledge and skills through ongoing education and must adhere to the applicable standards of practice.

Multiple-party compensation

Accepting compensation from more than one party for the same inspection requires full written disclosure of the arrangement and consent from all parties involved.

Asphalt shingle aging signs

Granule loss in gutters, curling edges, and exposed mat indicate aging. Shingles are typically rated 15 to 25 years, and flashing at valleys and penetrations is a common leak point.

Foundation crack evaluation

Cracks are judged by width, displacement, and pattern. Diagonal cracks at corners and stair-step masonry cracks suggest differential settlement and warrant further evaluation.

Electrical load formula

Power in watts equals voltage times amperage. A 120-volt, 15-amp circuit supports about 1,800 watts, and a 20-amp circuit about 2,400 watts.

GFCI and AFCI protection

Ground-fault circuit interrupter protection is used in wet locations such as kitchens, baths, and exteriors. Arc-fault circuit interrupter protection is used on bedroom and living-area circuits.

Water supply pressure

Typical residential supply pressure is 40 to 80 psi. Pressure above 80 psi can stress fixtures and valves and may require a pressure-reducing valve.

TPR valve discharge

A water heater temperature-pressure relief valve opens at about 150 psi or 210 degrees F. Its discharge pipe must slope downhill and terminate within 6 inches of the floor or outside.

Heat exchanger crack

A cracked furnace heat exchanger can allow combustion gases into supply air, creating a carbon monoxide hazard. It requires immediate evaluation and typically shutdown.

Refrigerant temperature differential

A properly operating cooling system commonly shows a 15 to 22 degree F difference between return and supply air. Condensate drainage and outdoor airflow must also be verified.

Attic ventilation ratio

A common guideline is 1 square foot of net free vent area per 150 square feet of attic floor when no vapor retarder is present, or per 300 square feet with one.

Site grading slope

Soil should slope away from the foundation at roughly 6 inches over the first 10 feet. Downspouts should discharge well away from the foundation to reduce water intrusion.

Report delivery requirement

A written report is delivered within the time agreed in the contract. It identifies the inspector, client, property, inspection date, and the standard followed.

Observation-recommendation format

Each report item states the component, the observed condition, its implication, and a recommendation such as monitor, repair, or further evaluation by a qualified specialist.

Pre-inspection agreement

A contract signed before the inspection that defines scope, exclusions, limitations, fee, and dispute resolution. It establishes client expectations and supports defensibility.

Photograph documentation

Photographs supplement the written narrative but do not replace it. Captions must be accurate and must not imply conditions beyond what was actually observed.

Report language standard

Report language should be factual and non-alarmist. Inspectors avoid definitive engineering conclusions they are not qualified to make and recommend specialists where needed.

Record retention

Reports and supporting records are retained per the agreement and applicable law. Good documentation supports the inspector if a complaint or claim later arises.