CPI (NCCT) flashcards
CPI · Build recall with a focused review session.
32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.
- Standards of Practice
- A document defining the minimum systems and components an inspector must observe and report, along with exclusions and limitations; it is not a code or warranty.
- Pre-inspection agreement
- A written contract stating scope, limitations, fee, and any liability or arbitration terms; signed by the client before the inspection begins.
- Concealed conditions
- Components or defects not visible or readily accessible during the inspection, such as inside walls or under stored goods; typically excluded from the standard scope.
- Report exclusions
- Items the inspector did not examine, such as underground piping or environmental testing, which should be listed with the reason for omission.
- Asphalt shingle slope rule
- Asphalt shingles generally require a minimum 2:12 roof slope with underlayment; below that, low-slope membrane systems are used instead.
- Kick-out flashing
- A flashing piece at a roof-wall termination that directs water away from the wall and into the gutter, preventing siding and wall moisture intrusion.
- Step flashing
- Individual L-shaped metal pieces installed at roof-wall intersections, woven with shingles to shed water away from the wall.
- Roof penetration boots
- Seals around plumbing vents and other roof penetrations; deteriorated boots are a common source of roof leaks and should be reported.
- Differential settlement
- Uneven foundation movement causing cracks and out-of-level floors; wide or offset cracks in masonry warrant evaluation by a qualified professional.
- Deck ledger flashing
- Metal flashing above the deck ledger where it attaches to the house, preventing water intrusion behind the ledger and into the structure.
- Negative grading
- Soil sloping toward the foundation instead of away, which directs surface water to the foundation and increases moisture and settlement risk.
- Guardrail baluster spacing
- Balusters should be spaced so a sphere of about 4 inches cannot pass through; wider spacing is a safety concern, especially for children.
- TPR valve discharge
- The water heater temperature-pressure relief valve discharge pipe should terminate within about 6 inches of the floor or to the exterior, never capped.
- S-trap
- A drain trap shaped like an S that can siphon and lose its water seal; it is a defect and should be reported as improper plumbing.
- Galvanized supply piping
- Older steel supply lines that corrode internally, reducing flow and pressure; note their presence and any evidence of corrosion or low flow.
- Main water shutoff
- The valve controlling water to the entire house; its location should be identified in the report for the client's reference.
- Double-tapped breaker
- Two conductors connected to a single breaker terminal not rated for it; a common panel defect that can cause overheating and should be reported.
- GFCI protection
- Ground-fault circuit interrupter protection required in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoors; test with the test button and report failures.
- AFCI protection
- Arc-fault circuit interrupter protection required in bedrooms and living areas in newer construction; absence in older homes is an observation.
- Flame roll-out
- Evidence that burner flames have escaped the combustion chamber, often shown by soot or scorching; a safety concern requiring HVAC evaluation.
- Condensate drainage
- Water produced by cooling coils must drain properly; leaks or clogs can cause water damage and should be reported.
- Insulated glass seal failure
- Fogging or condensation between panes indicates a failed seal in a double-pane window; report as a glazing defect.
- Stair riser consistency
- Uneven riser heights are a trip hazard; inspectors should note inconsistent treads or risers and loose handrails.
- Fireplace damper
- A movable plate controlling draft in a fireplace; check that it opens and closes freely and report any obstruction or damage.
- Bath ventilation
- Bath exhaust fans or operable windows remove moisture; fans should vent outdoors, not into the attic, to prevent moisture damage.
- Attic insulation depth
- The measured thickness and type of insulation in the attic; compressed or missing insulation reduces performance and should be reported.
- Soffit and ridge vents
- Intake vents at the eaves and exhaust vents at the ridge that promote attic ventilation; blocked vents can cause moisture and heat buildup.
- Crawlspace vapor barrier
- A ground cover that limits moisture migration into the crawlspace; missing or damaged barriers should be reported as a moisture concern.
- Conflict of interest
- A situation where the inspector has a financial or personal interest in the property or repair work; it should be disclosed and avoided.
- Referral disclosure
- The practice of informing the client of any relationship with contractors or service providers recommended in the report to maintain transparency.
- Report limitations
- Statements describing what was not inspected and why, such as inaccessible areas or weather conditions, which protect both client and inspector.
- Continuing education
- Ongoing training required or recommended to maintain competence and stay current with standards and building practices.