InterNACHI CPI key terms

A non-invasive, visual examination of the readily accessible systems and components of a residential building, performed to identify material defects observed on the date of the inspection.

The published document defining the minimum scope, components, and reporting duties an inspector must follow during an inspection; it sets what is and is not required to be inspected.

The specific systems, components, and conditions an inspector has agreed to examine, including any agreed limitations or additional services beyond the minimum standards.

A problem with a system or component that significantly reduces its value, safety, or functionality, or that may adversely affect the building's occupants and is not cosmetic in nature.

Able to be reached, observed, and examined without moving stored goods, dismantling finished surfaces, or using tools beyond those normally carried by an inspector, and without risk of damage or injury.

A system, component, condition, or area that the inspection standards or the inspection agreement specifically state is not required to be inspected, such as concealed areas or items requiring specialized testing.

A written contract, signed before the inspection, that describes the scope, limitations, fees, and liability terms of the inspection and is intended to manage client expectations.

A brief client meeting before the inspection begins to confirm the scope, review the agreement, identify areas of concern, and explain how findings will be communicated in the report.

The practice of explaining findings, maintenance needs, and system operation to the client during or after the inspection so they understand the condition of the property and their responsibilities.

The written record of the inspector's observations, describing inspected systems, material defects, limitations, and recommendations, delivered in the format required by the standards and agreement.

A report style in which findings are written in complete descriptive sentences rather than checklists alone, allowing the inspector to explain the significance and likely cause of an observed condition.

Using dated, labeled photographs to record conditions, defects, and the location of shut-off valves or equipment, supporting the written report and reducing later disputes.

A condition that presents an unreasonable risk of injury to occupants or inspectors, such as missing handrails, exposed wiring, or a blocked combustion-air supply, and must be reported prominently.

Repairs or upkeep that have been postponed by the owner, resulting in wear or deterioration that the inspector should describe as a maintenance item rather than an active defect.

Routine, scheduled care of building systems, such as cleaning gutters, changing filters, and servicing equipment, intended to prevent deterioration and extend service life.

Deterioration that occurs through ordinary use and aging of building materials and components, generally not reported as a defect but noted as an expected condition.

The widened, below-grade concrete base that transfers the weight of a foundation wall or column to the soil, spreading the load over a larger bearing area.

The vertical structural element, typically concrete, masonry, or treated wood, that supports the building above grade and retains soil on the exterior side of a basement or crawlspace.

A concrete floor poured directly on prepared soil at ground level, often with a vapor barrier beneath, commonly used for basements, garages, and single-story construction.

A shallow, often unexcavated area beneath the floor structure that provides access to plumbing and foundation components and may be ventilated or conditioned.

A material, such as plastic sheeting, installed to restrict the movement of moisture vapor from soil or a slab into the building assembly.

The unintended entry of water or water vapor into a building through leaks, gaps, poor drainage, or condensation, which can cause deterioration, mold growth, and structural damage.

A white, powdery salt deposit on masonry or concrete surfaces, indicating that water has moved through the material and evaporated, often a sign of moisture intrusion.

Unintended water entry through a roof covering or its penetrations, flashings, or transitions, often revealed by staining, rot, or active dripping in the attic or interior.

Water-resistant material installed at roof intersections, penetrations, valleys, and wall junctions to direct water away from seams and prevent leakage.

The panels, such as plywood or oriented strand board, fastened to rafters or trusses to form the deck that supports the roof covering and stiffens the roof structure.

A vertical support, often masonry or concrete, that carries a structural load to a footing, commonly found under floors, decks, and porches.

The enclosure containing circuit breakers or fuses that distributes electricity from the service entrance to branch circuits and provides overcurrent protection.

A device, such as a circuit breaker or fuse, that automatically interrupts current flow when it exceeds a safe level, protecting wiring and equipment from overheating and fire.

A protective device that rapidly disconnects a circuit when it detects current leaking to ground, reducing shock risk in wet or damp locations such as kitchens, baths, and exteriors.

The permanent joining of metallic parts to form an electrically conductive path that ensures electrical continuity and safe operation of overcurrent devices.

The air required for the complete burning of fuel in appliances such as furnaces and water heaters; an inadequate supply can cause incomplete combustion and carbon monoxide production.

The reverse flow of combustion gases down a flue and into a building, often caused by depressurization or blocked venting, creating a serious carbon monoxide hazard.

A safety device on a water heater that opens to release excess pressure or temperature, preventing tank rupture or explosion; it must have a proper discharge pipe.

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning: the building systems that control temperature, humidity, and air quality, inspected for function, condition, and safety.

The pipe that carries water removed from the air by an air conditioner or condensing appliance to a drain or exterior; leaks or blockages can cause water damage.

The inspector's ability to identify conditions that deviate from accepted building practice or performance, distinguish them from normal wear, and describe their significance accurately.

A written suggestion in the report that a qualified specialist further evaluate, repair, or replace a system or component that the inspector observed to be deficient or unsafe.

A condition or circumstance that restricts the inspector's ability to observe or evaluate a system, such as stored goods, snow cover, or inaccessible areas, which must be disclosed in the report.

The professional duty to report observed conditions honestly and without bias, avoiding conflicts of interest such as performing repairs on properties the inspector has examined.