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InterNACHI CPI practice questions

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Question 1Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

During a standard home inspection, the inspector's primary reporting obligation is to describe which of the following?

  1. The condition of readily accessible systems and components Correct answer.
  2. The market value of the property
  3. The seller's disclosure history
  4. The cost to repair every defect found

Explanation

A CPI inspection is a visual, non-invasive assessment of the condition of readily accessible systems and components on the day of the inspection. Inspectors report observed conditions, not property value, repair pricing, or disclosure records.

Question 2Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

According to the InterNACHI Standards of Practice, an inspector is required to inspect which of these roof components?

  1. Concealed roof deck fasteners
  2. Snow guard attachment torque
  3. The roof's remaining service life estimate
  4. Roof covering and drainage systems Correct answer.

Explanation

The Standards require inspection of the roof covering and the roof drainage systems, described by their general type and condition. Estimating remaining service life or inspecting concealed or specialty fasteners is not required.

Question 3Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector enters a crawlspace and finds standing water covering the soil. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Note the condition and do not enter if it is unsafe Correct answer.
  2. Ignore it because crawlspaces are excluded
  3. Pump the water out before proceeding
  4. Enter anyway and inspect the foundation

Explanation

Inspectors are not required to enter areas that are unsafe or not readily accessible, and standing water presents a safety and electrical hazard. The condition should be reported as a limitation.

Question 4Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

When inspecting the electrical service panel, the inspector should report which of the following?

  1. The amp-hour capacity of the utility transformer
  2. The presence of double-tapped breakers Correct answer.
  3. The utility's metering accuracy
  4. The age of the power pole outside

Explanation

Double-tapped (double-lugged) breakers are a common defect that inspectors describe in the panel. Utility-side equipment such as transformers, meters, and poles is outside the inspector's scope.

Question 5Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes that the water heater's temperature and pressure relief valve discharge pipe terminates 6 inches above the floor. How should this be reported?

  1. As not inspectable
  2. As a cosmetic issue
  3. As a defect requiring correction Correct answer.
  4. As properly installed

Explanation

The TPR discharge pipe should terminate within 6 inches of the floor or to the exterior, and it should not be trapped or reduced in size. A discharge terminating exactly 6 inches above the floor is at the acceptable limit, but inspectors commonly flag improper terminations; here the correct reporting approach is to describe the condition accurately as requiring correction when it does not meet the standard.

Question 6Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector's report should describe the general type and condition of the heating system. Which item is required to be described?

  1. The installer's license number
  2. The manufacturer's warranty terms
  3. The exact remaining life of the heat exchanger
  4. The energy source of the heating system Correct answer.

Explanation

The Standards require the inspector to describe the heating system by its energy source and general type, and to report observed defects. Warranty terms, exact remaining life, and installer licensing are not required descriptions.

Question 7Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

While inspecting a bathroom, the inspector finds no mechanical exhaust fan and no operable window. What is the most appropriate report comment?

  1. Recommend replacing the entire HVAC system
  2. Report it as a code violation that must be fixed by the seller
  3. State that bathrooms never require ventilation
  4. Note the lack of ventilation as a concern for moisture control Correct answer.

Explanation

Bathrooms need ventilation to control moisture, and the inspector should note the absence of an exhaust fan or operable window as a moisture-control concern. Inspectors describe conditions and concerns rather than issuing code citations or demanding seller repairs.

Question 8Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector is examining a deck attached to a house and notices the ledger board is fastened with nails only. What should the inspector report?

  1. That the deck must be demolished
  2. The deck's load rating in pounds
  3. The ledger fastening method as a potential concern Correct answer.
  4. Nothing, because nails are always acceptable

Explanation

Ledger board attachment is a critical safety detail, and fastening with nails alone may not provide adequate connection. The inspector should describe the observed fastening method as a concern for further evaluation.

Question 9Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

Which of the following is a required part of the inspection of the plumbing system?

  1. Inspecting the municipal sewer main
  2. Observing water supply, drain, waste, and vent piping Correct answer.
  3. Testing water quality for contaminants
  4. Measuring water pressure at every fixture

Explanation

The Standards require the inspector to observe interior water supply and distribution piping, drain/waste/vent piping, and related fixtures. Water quality testing and municipal mains are outside the scope.

Question 10Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector is testing a representative number of receptacles in a bedroom and finds one that is not grounded. What is the best action?

  1. Report the ungrounded receptacle as a defect Correct answer.
  2. Remove the receptacle cover to trace the wiring
  3. Tell the client to replace the whole electrical system
  4. Test every receptacle in the house to find all of them

Explanation

The inspector tests a representative number of receptacles and reports defects such as an ungrounded outlet. The inspector is not required to test every receptacle or to perform invasive tracing.

Question 11Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

When describing the foundation, the inspector should report which of the following?

  1. The exact depth of footings
  2. The soil bearing capacity
  3. The foundation material and visible condition Correct answer.
  4. The concrete mix design

Explanation

The inspector describes the foundation material and reports visible conditions such as cracks or movement. Engineering data such as bearing capacity, footing depth, and mix design are not part of the inspection.

Question 12Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector notices efflorescence on a basement wall. What does this most likely indicate?

  1. Moisture movement through the masonry Correct answer.
  2. Structural steel corrosion
  3. Radon gas accumulation
  4. Improper electrical grounding

Explanation

Efflorescence is a white powdery deposit left when water moves through masonry and evaporates, carrying salts to the surface. It suggests moisture movement, which the inspector should report as a concern.

Question 13Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector should report the presence of which safety device in the garage of a home with an attached garage?

  1. A properly functioning garage door auto-reverse mechanism Correct answer.
  2. A fire sprinkler in the garage
  3. A sump pump in the garage
  4. A carbon monoxide detector in the attic

Explanation

Garage door auto-reverse and photo-eye safety features are inspected because they prevent injury. Other devices listed are not required inspection items in the garage.

Question 14Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

During the inspection, the inspector finds that the attic access is blocked by stored items. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Note the attic as not inspected due to limited access Correct answer.
  2. Report the attic as defect-free
  3. Move the items and enter the attic
  4. Return another day without noting it

Explanation

When an area is not readily accessible, the inspector should report the limitation and the reason rather than moving personal property. The report should state that the attic was not inspected.

Question 15Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

Which of the following best describes the inspector's duty regarding systems that are shut off at the time of inspection?

  1. Report them as defective
  2. Turn them on and test them fully
  3. Assume they are functional
  4. Describe that they were not operated and why Correct answer.

Explanation

The inspector should report systems that were not operated and the reason, such as utility service being off. The inspector should not assume condition or automatically call them defective.

Question 16Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes a gas-fired furnace with a visible flame that is mostly yellow. What should the inspector report?

  1. The flame characteristic as a possible combustion concern Correct answer.
  2. That the furnace is energy efficient
  3. That the gas line needs replacement
  4. That yellow flames are normal and require no comment

Explanation

A steady blue flame generally indicates proper combustion, while a predominantly yellow flame can suggest incomplete combustion and should be reported for further evaluation. The inspector describes the observation rather than prescribing a specific repair.

Question 17Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

When inspecting the exterior, the inspector should report which of the following?

  1. The property boundary lines
  2. The neighbor's landscaping
  3. Visible grading and drainage conditions near the foundation Correct answer.
  4. The local zoning classification

Explanation

The inspector observes grading and drainage near the foundation because improper slope can contribute to water intrusion. Property lines, neighboring landscaping, and zoning are outside the inspection scope.

Question 18Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector notices a bathroom sink drain that empties slowly. What is the most appropriate report language?

  1. Report it as a structural issue
  2. Describe the slow drain as a defect for repair Correct answer.
  3. State that the plumbing is fine
  4. Recommend chemical drain cleaner

Explanation

Functional drainage is part of the plumbing inspection, and a slow drain should be described as a defect requiring repair. The inspector should not recommend specific products or mischaracterize it as structural.

Question 19Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

Which of the following is the best example of a condition the inspector should describe as a safety hazard?

  1. A faded exterior paint finish
  2. A missing handrail on a stairway Correct answer.
  3. A worn carpet in a bedroom
  4. A dated kitchen faucet

Explanation

A missing handrail on a stairway is a fall hazard and should be reported as a safety concern. The other items are cosmetic or maintenance observations rather than immediate safety hazards.

Question 20Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector is evaluating a chimney and observes that the chimney is missing a cap. What is the most likely concern to report?

  1. Reduced fire risk
  2. Water entry and animal intrusion into the flue Correct answer.
  3. Better combustion efficiency
  4. Improved draft performance

Explanation

A missing chimney cap can allow rain and animals into the flue, so the inspector should report it as a potential moisture and pest entry concern. It does not improve draft or reduce fire risk.

Question 21Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector's report includes a description of the cooling system. Which item is part of that required description?

  1. The compressor serial number
  2. The cooling method and energy source Correct answer.
  3. The refrigerant charge weight
  4. The SEER rating of the unit

Explanation

The Standards require the inspector to describe the cooling system by its type and energy source and to report observed defects. Refrigerant weight, serial numbers, and efficiency ratings are not required descriptions.

Question 22Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector finds a bedroom window that will not open. How should this be reported?

  1. As a structural failure
  2. As a defect affecting egress and ventilation Correct answer.
  3. As a cosmetic issue
  4. As not inspectable

Explanation

Operable windows in sleeping rooms are important for egress and ventilation, and a window that will not open should be reported as a defect. It is not merely cosmetic or structural.

Question 23Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

When inspecting a home's water supply, the inspector should report which of the following?

  1. The age of the municipal water tower
  2. The utility's water pressure at the main
  3. The type of supply piping observed Correct answer.
  4. The water's mineral content

Explanation

The inspector describes the type of water supply piping observed and reports visible defects. Water quality analysis, utility pressure, and municipal infrastructure are outside the scope.

Question 24Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes that a dryer vent terminates inside the garage. What is the appropriate report comment?

  1. State that it is an acceptable installation
  2. Describe it as a fire and moisture concern Correct answer.
  3. Recommend increasing the vent length
  4. Report it as an electrical defect

Explanation

Dryer vents should terminate outdoors because lint and moisture released indoors create fire and moisture hazards. The inspector should describe the improper termination as a safety concern.

Question 25Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector is asked by the client to comment on the presence of mold throughout the home. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Certify the home as mold-free
  2. Ignore the request because it is outside the scope
  3. Describe visible conditions and recommend evaluation by a qualified specialist Correct answer.
  4. Confirm the mold species on site

Explanation

Inspectors may describe visible moisture or staining but should not confirm mold type or certify a home as mold-free without proper testing. Recommending evaluation by a qualified specialist is appropriate.

Question 26Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

According to the InterNACHI Standards of Practice, the inspector is required to inspect which of the following roof components?

  1. The remaining service life of the shingles
  2. The cost to replace the roof
  3. The roof covering materials Correct answer.
  4. The manufacturer's warranty terms

Explanation

The Standards of Practice require the inspector to inspect the roof covering materials, among other visible roof components. Predicting remaining life, costs, and warranties are outside the scope of a standard inspection.

Question 27Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector's report describes the heating system using which of the following categories?

  1. Its type and energy source Correct answer.
  2. Its installation contractor
  3. Its energy efficiency rating
  4. Its exact age in years

Explanation

The Standards require the inspector to describe the heating system by its type and energy source, such as a gas-fired forced-air furnace. Precise age, efficiency ratings, and installer identity are not required descriptions.

Question 28Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

During an inspection, the inspector should describe the location of the main water shut-off valve. Why is this description useful to the client?

  1. It proves the valve meets current plumbing code
  2. It documents the water pressure at the fixture
  3. It lets the client quickly stop water in an emergency Correct answer.
  4. It confirms the water heater is properly sized

Explanation

Reporting the main shut-off location helps the client act quickly to limit water damage in an emergency. The inspection does not certify code compliance or verify sizing or pressure through this description.

Question 29Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes a double-tapped connection at a circuit breaker, where two wires are secured under a lug designed for one. How should this be reported?

  1. As a defect that should be evaluated by a qualified electrician Correct answer.
  2. As a cosmetic issue with no consequence
  3. As a condition the inspector should repair on the spot
  4. As an acceptable practice on all breakers

Explanation

Double-tapping at a breaker not rated for it is a defect that can cause loose connections and overheating, so it should be reported and referred to a qualified electrician. The inspector does not perform repairs.

Question 30Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector is required to inspect the interior water supply and distribution system by doing which of the following?

  1. Opening and closing accessible valves and observing flow at fixtures Correct answer.
  2. Testing the water for lead content
  3. Measuring the water pressure with a gauge only
  4. Inspecting the inside of the supply pipes with a camera

Explanation

The inspector checks the supply and distribution system by operating accessible valves and observing functional flow at fixtures. Water quality testing and internal pipe camera inspection are not part of the standard inspection.

Question 31Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector finds a garage that shares a wall with a bedroom and the door between them has no self-closing hardware. What is the appropriate report comment?

  1. Recommend self-closing hardware for the door separating the garage Correct answer.
  2. Note that the door should be replaced with a window
  3. No comment is needed because the door is interior
  4. Report that the wall must be removed

Explanation

Doors between a garage and the living space should be self-closing to help limit the spread of fire and fumes. The inspector should recommend adding self-closing hardware.

Question 32Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

When describing the cooling system in the report, the inspector should include which of the following?

  1. The refrigerant charge weight
  2. The expected seasonal cost to operate
  3. The type and energy source of the system Correct answer.
  4. The brand reputation of the unit

Explanation

The report describes the cooling system by its type and energy source, consistent with the Standards. Refrigerant charge, operating costs, and brand reputation are not required descriptions.

Question 33Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

During the inspection, the inspector finds the attic space is not accessible because of a sealed ceiling hatch with no other access. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Assume the attic is fine and omit any mention
  2. Ask the seller to install a new hatch before continuing
  3. Report that the attic was not inspected and why Correct answer.
  4. Force the hatch open and inspect the attic

Explanation

When a component cannot be inspected, the inspector should state that it was not inspected and describe the reason. The inspector does not force access or make assumptions about uninspected areas.

Question 34Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes a deck ledger board attached to the house with nails only, no lag screws or bolts. What is the appropriate report language?

  1. Nails are always acceptable for ledger boards
  2. The ledger attachment should be evaluated and likely improved Correct answer.
  3. The deck attachment appears adequate
  4. The deck should be removed entirely

Explanation

Ledger boards should be securely attached with appropriate fasteners such as lag screws or through-bolts; nails alone are a concern. The inspector should recommend evaluation and improvement of the attachment.

Question 35Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector notices white, powdery deposits on a basement wall. What does this most likely indicate?

  1. A termite infestation in the wall
  2. Improper paint on the interior surface
  3. Moisture migration through the masonry Correct answer.
  4. A structural crack in the foundation

Explanation

Efflorescence is the powdery deposit left when water moves through masonry and evaporates, carrying salts to the surface. It points to moisture movement rather than structural cracking, insects, or paint problems.

Question 36Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes a gas-fired furnace with a flame that is mostly yellow and flickering. What should the inspector report?

  1. The gas supply pressure is too high for the home
  2. The flame suggests incomplete combustion and needs evaluation Correct answer.
  3. The furnace is operating efficiently
  4. The flame color is normal for this unit

Explanation

A steady blue flame is expected; a mostly yellow, flickering flame can indicate incomplete combustion and possible carbon monoxide risk. The inspector should report it and recommend evaluation by a qualified technician.

Question 37Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector finds a bathroom with no mechanical exhaust fan and no operable window. What is the appropriate report comment?

  1. Note that the absence of a fan is a code violation
  2. No comment; ventilation is optional
  3. Recommend providing ventilation to control moisture Correct answer.
  4. Report that the bathroom must be remodeled

Explanation

Bathrooms need ventilation to control moisture that can lead to mold and deterioration. The inspector should recommend providing ventilation, without declaring code violations or requiring remodeling.

Question 38Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes that a clothes dryer vent terminates inside the garage. What is the appropriate report comment?

  1. The vent should terminate outdoors to avoid moisture and lint buildup Correct answer.
  2. No action is needed if a lint trap is installed
  3. This is acceptable because the garage is ventilated
  4. The vent should be routed into the attic instead

Explanation

Dryer vents should terminate outdoors; venting into a garage releases moisture and lint and can be a fire and health concern. The inspector should recommend correcting the termination.

Question 39Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector notices a bedroom window that will not open. How should this be reported?

  1. As a defect affecting egress and ventilation Correct answer.
  2. As a cosmetic issue only
  3. As a condition to ignore if the room has a door
  4. As a reason to condemn the home

Explanation

An inoperable window in a sleeping room can affect emergency egress and ventilation, so it should be reported as a defect. It is not merely cosmetic, and the inspector does not condemn homes.

Question 40Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector finds a representative number of receptacles in a bedroom, and one is not grounded. What is the appropriate report comment?

  1. The receptacle is fine because it works
  2. Recommend replacing all wiring in the home
  3. Note that grounding is not important in bedrooms
  4. Report the ungrounded receptacle as a defect for evaluation Correct answer.

Explanation

An ungrounded receptacle is a defect that should be reported and referred for evaluation by a qualified electrician. The inspector does not recommend wholesale rewiring based on one finding.

Question 41Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

The inspector observes that a chimney is missing a cap. What is the most likely concern to report?

  1. The chimney is too tall for the roof
  2. The firebox is oversized
  3. Water entry and animal intrusion into the flue Correct answer.
  4. The home's heating efficiency is below standard

Explanation

A missing chimney cap allows rain and animals into the flue, which can cause deterioration and blockages. The inspector should report the missing cap as a concern.

Question 42Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

During the inspection, the inspector finds that the water heater is shut off at the time of inspection. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Turn it on and test it fully
  2. Report it as a failed appliance
  3. Report that it was not tested and recommend evaluation Correct answer.
  4. Assume it is functional and omit any comment

Explanation

When a system is shut off, the inspector should state that it was not operated and recommend evaluation when it is placed in service. Assuming function or declaring failure without testing is not appropriate.

Question 43Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes that a stairway with more than a few risers has no handrail on one side. What is the appropriate report comment?

  1. Note that handrails are decorative
  2. Report that the stairs must be replaced
  3. Recommend installing a handrail for safety Correct answer.
  4. No comment if the stairs are carpeted

Explanation

A missing handrail on a stairway is a safety concern, and the inspector should recommend installing one. Carpeting or decoration does not change the safety function.

Question 44Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes that a bathroom sink drain empties slowly. What is the most appropriate report language?

  1. The sink must be replaced
  2. The drain is fully functional
  3. The condition is normal and needs no mention
  4. Report the slow drain and recommend evaluation or clearing Correct answer.

Explanation

A slow drain is a reportable plumbing condition that should be evaluated or cleared. Reporting it as functional or normal would misrepresent the observation.

Question 45Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes a visible crack in a masonry foundation wall that is wider at the top than at the bottom. What should the inspector report?

  1. A cosmetic hairline crack with no concern
  2. A crack pattern that warrants evaluation by a structural professional Correct answer.
  3. A crack caused by paint shrinkage
  4. Proof that the foundation has failed completely

Explanation

A crack that is wider at one end can indicate differential movement and should be evaluated by a qualified structural professional. The inspector reports the observation without declaring total failure.

Question 46Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector finds that a bedroom has no smoke alarm and the client asks whether the home is safe. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Refuse to comment on life-safety items
  2. Recommend installing smoke alarms and note the safety concern Correct answer.
  3. Guarantee that the home is safe to occupy
  4. State that smoke alarms are not part of any inspection

Explanation

The inspector should note the absence of smoke alarms as a safety concern and recommend installation. The inspector cannot guarantee safety or refuse to address life-safety observations.

Question 47Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes that a roof shingle surface shows granule loss over much of the roof and several lifted shingles. How should this be reported?

  1. As a defect the inspector should repair
  2. As wear that warrants evaluation and possible replacement Correct answer.
  3. As a normal condition needing no comment
  4. As proof the roof will fail within a month

Explanation

Widespread granule loss and lifted shingles indicate wear that should be reported and evaluated for possible replacement. The inspector does not repair roofs or predict a precise failure date.

Question 48Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector finds a gas water heater in a garage without a protective bollard and located where a vehicle could strike it. What is the appropriate report comment?

  1. Report the impact risk and recommend protection for the water heater Correct answer.
  2. Report that the water heater must be removed
  3. Recommend moving the vehicle outside permanently
  4. No comment because garages are for parking

Explanation

A water heater exposed to vehicle impact in a garage is a safety concern, and the inspector should recommend protective measures such as a bollard. The inspector does not dictate vehicle use or require removal of the appliance.

Question 49Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

An inspector observes that the grading around the foundation slopes toward the house on all sides. What should the inspector report?

  1. That the condition only matters during winter
  2. That the slope directs water toward the foundation and should be corrected Correct answer.
  3. That the grading is correct and needs no comment
  4. That the foundation must be replaced

Explanation

Grading that slopes toward the house directs surface water to the foundation and can contribute to moisture problems, so it should be reported and corrected. The concern is not seasonal and does not require foundation replacement.

Question 50Home Inspector Job Task Analysis - tasks performed by a Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)®

Which component is included in the standard inspection of the electrical service panel?

  1. Measuring branch-circuit ampacity with a clamp meter
  2. Testing each breaker for proper trip time
  3. Tightening any loose lugs found inside the panel
  4. Removing the dead front cover to view conductors and breakers Correct answer.

Explanation

A general inspection includes opening and visually examining the service panel interior where it is safe to do so. Inspectors report what is visible rather than performing repairs or instrument testing of breaker function.