InterNACHI CPI study plan

InterNACHI CPI · Give each week a clear focus.

8 weeks · About 6 hours per week

Week 1

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

Map the full CPI inspection workflow from client contact through report delivery, listing each task in sequence
Identify the standard components of a home inspection report and the inspector's reporting obligations
Outline the typical sequence of a roof-to-foundation walkthrough and note where each system check falls

A one-page flowchart of the end-to-end inspection process with at least 20 labeled tasks

Week 2

Describe the tasks performed during exterior, roof, and structural inspections
List the tasks involved in inspecting plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems
Distinguish tasks the inspector performs from tasks outside the scope of a standard inspection

A task checklist covering exterior, roof, structure, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC with scope notes

Week 3

Sequence the tasks for inspecting interior rooms, attic, and foundation/basement areas
Explain how to document defects and safety hazards observed during the walkthrough
Summarize client communication tasks before, during, and after the inspection

A written sample inspection narrative for three hypothetical defects using proper documentation language

Week 4

Define the core knowledge areas underpinning each inspection task from weeks 1-3
Explain how building science principles (moisture, air movement, thermal performance) inform defect recognition
Identify the safety practices and personal protective equipment required on an inspection

A study sheet linking each major inspection task to its underlying knowledge area and safety practice

Week 5

Describe the skills needed to operate common inspection tools and test instruments correctly
Explain how to interpret and communicate findings clearly in both written and verbal form
Outline the professional and ethical responsibilities of a CPI, including conflicts of interest and confidentiality

A skills self-assessment matrix rating your confidence across tools, communication, and ethics with a plan for weak areas

Week 6

Integrate task knowledge with underlying KSAs by walking through three full simulated inspections
Practice identifying which KSA supports each decision made during a simulated walkthrough
Review and correct errors from your simulated inspections against your study sheets

Three completed simulated inspection write-ups with a KSA justification note for each major finding

Week 7

Rehearse rapid recall of task sequences and KSA categories using flashcards or timed drills
Answer practice questions across both domains and log every missed item with the reason
Close knowledge gaps by re-studying the weakest task and KSA areas identified in your error log

An error log of at least 30 missed practice items with corrected explanations

Week 8

Complete two full-length timed practice exams under test conditions
Review every missed question and confirm understanding before moving on
Consolidate final review notes into a single condensed reference sheet for exam day

Two scored practice exams with a final one-page condensed review sheet

Week 2: Can list the major inspection tasks for every system without referring to notes

Week 4: Can explain the knowledge and safety basis behind each inspection task on your flowchart

Week 6: Completed three simulated inspections scoring at least 80% on self-graded task and KSA accuracy

Week 8: Scored 85% or higher on both timed practice exams