12 inches
Communications wire has to be greater than or equal to _________ to parallel power wires
10 feet
The service drop should be _______ above the final grade to the lowest point of drip loop.
10 feet
The vertical above a deck and/or balcony to the communication wire should be how many feet?
Aluminum branch circuit
The customer needs to contact an electrician if what kind of wiring is found?
B
What should the inspector suggest suggest to the customer if the main panel is underrated for the service amperage?
A. Replace the panel
B. Have an electrician evaluate the service
C. Use fuses and breakers to match the panel rating
D. Add a sub panel to get more circuits
Romex
Which is used as branch circuit wiring in most modern homes?
- Romex
- BX
- Knob & Tube wiring
2/12
Asphalt shingles can be installed on pitches as low as ____ if the roof is first covered with two layers of non-perforated saturated felt paper.
Spaced
It is preferable to put wood shingles and shakes over what type of roof sheathing to allow them to dry more quickly?
- Plywood
- Solid
- Spaced
- 1" x 10"
Cricket
Chimney's more than 30 inches should have what installed on the high side?
- More flashing
- Cricket
- Ice and water shield
B
The proper exposures for 18" and 24" shakes are:
A. 10" and 12"
B. 7.5" and 10"
C. 7.5" and 12"
D. 8" and 10"
Inadequate insulation and ventilation
What contributes to ice damming?
- too much snow
- improper pitch
- inadequate insulation and ventilation
Roll roofing
Which roof covering typically has the shortest lifetime?
- cement tile
- metal roofing
- roll roofing
- Single-ply membrane
A
A roof with a 5/12 slope would not be good for
A. Built up roofing
B. Wood shakes
C. Cement tiles
D. Asphalt shingles
Safety hazard
Cracks or missing bricks in an unlined chimney should be reported as a _____________
Wall cladding
According to the standards, what should always be inspected?
- storm windows
- garden sheds
- awnings
- wall cladding
Composition board
What type of siding has the least ability to hold paint over long periods of time?
1" per foot for 5' or 6'
[National] What is the proper grading for land around the foundation? _" per foot for _' or _'
Air flow and leaking refrigerant
If a suction line is frosting up it could be due to improper ________ and/or ___________________
No
If heating equipment can damage during inspection, is it a requirement to inspect? Yes or no?
Compressor
What A/C component functions to put refrigerant gas under a high pressure?
- Compressor
- Condenser
- Expansion Device
- Evaporator
Fossil fuel forced air furnace
The heat exchanger, burner, and blower are the three main components of a ______ ____ ______ ___ _______.
Crack in the heat exchanger
Strange smells at register, rusting on heat exchanger, irregular flame pattern when the blower on are all signs of a __________________
Evaporator unit and condensing unit
What are the two main components of an air-cooled air conditioning system?
Yellow tipped flames at a gas burner
Incomplete combustion and possible carbon monoxide producing can be identified by...
Heat exchanger
A conventional forced warm air furnace and a mid efficiency furnace both have a ______________.
True
A temperature differential of greater than 20 degrees Fahrenheit between the supply and return sides of the evaporator is a sign of something wrong with the cooling system. True or False?
B
The three main components of a stairway are:
A. Stringers, risers, head room
B. Stringers, treads, risers
C. Riders, treads, nosing
D. Treads, total rise, total run
D
A fireplace should not share a chimney flue with:
A. Another fireplace
B. Furnace
C. Another wood stove
D. All the above
B
What method of attic ventilation is considered to be the most effective?
A. Vents at each gable
B. A combination of soffit and ridge vents
C. Soffit vents at each eave
D. Ridge vents along the full length of the roof
A
How do you determine if a shower door has safety glazing?
A. Marked in one of the corners
B. Glass will be foggy
C. Wire mesh
B
What sort of crack in a drywall ceiling can be caused by truss uplift?
A. A crack running alongside a girder the length of the house.
B. A crack along the junction of the ceiling and the walls.
Too flexible
The flooring system is __________ if you see cracked natural tiles such as slate or stone.
Leaking seal
Discoloration, moisture, or cloudiness between the lights of an insulated glass window are signs of a ______________.
Both
What type of roof is often inadequately ventilated
- one over a cathedral
- vaulted ceiling
- both
Delaminated plywood sheathing
___________________________ is a sign of too much moisture in the attic.
6 inches and 10 feet
A plumbing vent has to extend at least ___ above the roof and be at least ___ from a window.
Aluminum tube
To rid hot water smelling like eggs, replace magnesium anode tube with an ______________
80
What psi should you begin to get concerned about possible damage to the water supply fixtures?
Copper
______ is the most commonly used piping today as the main service pipe from public water supplies.
Cross connection
When waste water can be siphoned into the water supply system, it is called __________________.
B
Why should the extension from the relief valve on a water heater not be threaded at the bottom?
A. To prevent anyone from getting sprayed in the face when the relief valve trips
B. To prevent the end from being capped
C. To prevent steam from being released from the extension
B
The difference between ballon framing and platform construction is:
A. Ballon framing is stronger than platform construction
B. Ballon framing studs run from foundation to roof line
C. Platform construction is stronger than ballon framing
D. The performance of ballon framing is better than platform framing
Drain tile
Water stains along the junction of the basement wall and floor most likely indicates a problem with the __________.
B
Why should a dirt floor in a crawl space be covered?
A. To prevent dust from entering the ducts and piping in the crawl space
B. To prevent moisture from soil being released into the crawl space
C. To insulate the house above from cold released from the soil
Ridge board
Which of the following is not part of the roof framework?
- scissors truss
- collar ties
- ridge board
- rafters
Mud jacking
Forcing, under pressure, a material that will raise a concrete product to provide a proper pitch is called ____________.
Loose brick ties
If you see a brick veneer wall with a bow in it you can expect to see _________________.
B
Insulation in the attic should be installed:
A. With the moisture deterrent layer toward the attic space
B. With the moisture deterrent layer toward the heated portion of the house
60 cycles per second
Alternating Current means: Electrons move back and forth through power lines at a frequency of _________________.
5,000 gallons
Permits are not required for water tanks on grade less than or equal to _____________ & height/width ratio less than or equal to 2:1
Programming
The ____________ of the thermostat can be lost if the batteries are low and the inspector turns off the heating unit safety switch.
D
What condition is indicated if a lighted match held at the barometric damper leans inward toward the smoke pipe?
A. The damper is broken
B. A downdraft is occurring
C. Carbon monoxide is escaping into the home
D. Exhaust is moving up the chimney
C
The 3 main controls on a furnace are:
A. The thermostat, the limit control, and the pump control
B. The thermostat, the primary control, and the thermocouple
C. The thermostat, the limit control and the fan control
Burner and circulating pump
Upon a call for heat for the thermostat, which components of a er hydronic boiler are activated simultaneously?
Properly sloped
Pipes are not ________________ if there is a loud banging or knocking just after the steam boiler fires.
Subfloor and joists
Squeaks in flooring are caused by a poor connection between the _________________.
Tempered glass
Safety glazing includes _____________ which shatters into small, smooth edged rectangular cubes upon impact.
B
When should a wood stove sit on a protective non-combustible pad?
A. Over a concrete floor
B. Over a wood floor
Metal shower pans
___________________ are notorious for leaking, and if it isn' t leaking now, it surely will soon. Never miss reporting these.
28 to 30 psi
At what pressure would the pressure relief valve open on a forced hot water boiler?
R-value
The _______ is a number that
represents an insulation material's resistance to heat flow per inch of
thickness. An ________ is the total heat resistance for a given
thickness of insulation.
[One Answer]
300 square feet
1 square foot for every _____________ is the amount of free vent space for an attic.
C
A stud that is located in an
exterior wall is doubled, and NOT more than two successive studs are
bored. A hole bored through the stud may be a MAXIMUM of what percentage
of the width of the stud?
a. 40%
b. 55%
c. 60%
d. 75%
B
How should board-and-batten wood siding be installed?
a. In a horizontal position.
b. In a vertical position.
c. Over vertical furring strips.
d. With the tongue inside the groove.
D
What is the MINIMUM clearance above the floor for electric water heaters located in a garage?
a. 12 inches from the base.
b. 12 inches from the lowest element.
c. 18 inches from the base.
d. 18 inches from the lowest element.
A
The inspector is REQUIRED to
a. determine the presence or absence of a pressure relief valve on a water heater.
b. light a pilot on a natural gas device that appears operational.
c. attempt to light a pilot on a natural gas device that appears not to be operational.
d. probe structural components to determine their condition.
B
What is the MINIMUM required overhead clearance of a service drop cable that runs above a swimming pool diving board?
a. 12.5 feet.
b. 14.5 feet.
c. 16.5 feet.
d. 18.5 feet
C
Which of the following types of foundation settlement usually has no appreciable effect on the structure?
a. Lateral movement.
b. Differential settlement.
c. Uniform settlement.
d. Grade beam uplift
C
Brick veneer:
a. is a structural load-bearing component of a wall.
b. does not require a wood frame.
c. is used as an outside finish.
d. gives additional strength to the framing
Step
What is the term for the type of flashing used where the edge of a shingle roof meets a vertical wall?
A
According to the Standards of
Practice, which of the following situations is an inspector REQUIRED to
report as "in need of repair"?
a. A water heater temperature and pressure relief valve drain smaller than the outlet fitting of the valve.
b. Handrail balusters that are 3 inches apart.
c. The installation of water heaters in a garage with an ignition source less than 24 inches
above the floor.
d. The absence of safety glass in a window above
the kitchen sink.
Grounding
_________ is the process of electrically connecting any electrically conductive item to the earth.
Bonding
_______ means electrically connecting 2 or more conductive items together and to the grounding system
Cleanout
A plug-sealed extension at the sewer outlet which is unplugged when work needs to be performed on the sewer lines. What am I?
60
Operate the Cooling system using normal control devices except when the outdoor temperature is less than _________ Fahrenheit
Neutral and grounding
The _______ wire (white) and the _________ wire must be on separate grounding bars.
B
According to TREC Standards, a home inspector is requires to:
A. Operate a representative number of plumbing fixtures
B. Operate all plumbing fixtures
12 and 12
How many feet of clearance by the overhead service drop does the NEC require over driveways and pedestrian areas?
Incomplete combustion
Carbon monoxide, pure Carbon, and aldehyde are all results of a ___________________.
40
When cold water comes into the shower after a toilet is flushed, there is low pressure < __ psi
Horizontal Cast Iron Piping
___________________ is vulnerable because sewer gas can eat through the top of the pipe.
Ceiling side
The vapor barrier in the ceiling under the attic should be on the ___________ of the insulation
c
A stud that is located in an exterior wall is
doubled, and NOT more than two successive studs
are bored. A hole bored through the stud may be a
MAXIMUM of what percentage of the width of the
stud?
a. 40%
b. 55%
c. 60%
d. 75%
b
How should board-and-batten wood siding be
installed?
a. In a horizontal position.
b. In a vertical position.
c. Over vertical furring strips.
d. With the tongue inside the groove.
d
What is the MINIMUM clearance above the floor for
electric water heaters located in a garage?
a. 12 inches from the base.
b. 12 inches from the lowest element.
c. 18 inches from the base.
d. 18 inches from the lowest element.
a
The inspector is REQUIRED to
a. determine the presence or absence of a
pressure relief valve on a water heater.
b. light a pilot on a natural gas device that
appears operational.
c. attempt to light a pilot on a natural gas device
that appears not to be operational.
d. probe structural components to determine
their condition.
b
What is the MINIMUM required overhead clearance
of a service drop cable that runs above a swimming
pool diving board?
a. 12.5 feet.
b. 14.5 feet.
c. 16.5 feet.
d. 18.5 feet.
c
Which of the following types of foundation
settlement usually has no appreciable effect on the
structure?
a. Lateral movement.
b. Differential settlement.
c. Uniform settlement.
d. Grade beam uplift.
b
As measured from the nose of the tread, what is
the MAXIMUM height above the stairway tread for a
handrail?
a. 36 inches.
b. 38 inches.
c. 42 inches.
d. 44 inches.
c
Brick veneer
a. is a structural load-bearing component of a
wall.
b. does not require a wood frame.
c. is used as an outside finish.
d. gives additional strength to the framing.
b
What is the term for the type of flashing used
where the edge of a shingle roof meets a vertical
wall?
a. Valley
b. Step
c. Woven
d. Hip
a
According to the Standards of Practice, which of
the following situations is an inspector REQUIRED to
report as "in need of repair"?
a. A water heater temperature and pressure relief
valve drain smaller than the outlet fitting of
the valve.
b. Handrail balusters that are 3 inches apart.
c. The installation of water heaters in a garage
with an ignition source less than 24 inches
above the floor.
d. The absence of safety glass in a window above
the kitchen sink.
d
Why is it important to ensure the suction line at an
air handler is properly insulated?
a. Refrigerant leak.
b. Noise reduction.
c. Vibration control.
d. Moisture control.
a
What is an example of a cross connection in a
plumbing system?
a. Faucet through the sidewall of a tub.
b. "T" joint in a wet vent stack.
c. Interface of the building service with the public
utility service.
d. Location of a backflow valve.
c
Which of the following rooms REQUIRES a GFCI
circuit?
a. Bedroom.
b. Dining room.
c. Bathroom.
d. Furnace room.
c
What detail should be present in brick veneer walls
to ensure that accumulated moisture is adequately
relieved?
a. Wall ties.
b. Head flashing.
c. Weep holes.
d. Drip cap.
c
Junction boxes supplying swimming pool, wet-niche
fixtures MUST be a MINIMUM of how many inches
above the water level?
a. 4 inches.
b. 6 inches.
c. 8 inches.
d. 10 inches.
b
According to the Standards of Practice, water at
the faucet MUST be checked for
a. water pressure.
b. functional flow.
c. temperature reading.
d. unpleasant odors.
a
The purpose of the Standards of Practice adopted
by the Texas Real Estate Commission is to
a. establish the minimum level of inspection
service.
b. prevent inspectors from exceeding the
requirements of the Standards of Practice.
c. provide ethical standards for inspectors.
d. provide voluntary guidelines for the
performance of real estate inspections.
b
The chemical reaction between cement and water
that causes concrete to harden is called
a. reactivity.
b. hydration.
c. consolidation.
d. admixture sequencing.
a
Which structural detail will facilitate interior
remodeling involving partition changes?
a. Roof trusses.
b. Balloon framing.
c. Post and beam construction.
d. Platform frame construction.
d
What is the MAXIMUM spacing of rafters?
a. 16.0 inches o.c.
b. 19.2 inches o.c.
c. 20.0 inches o.c.
d. There is no maximum.
c
A gas-fired water heater may be located in all of
the following areas EXCEPT
a. a garage.
b. an attic.
c. a storage closet.
d. a family room.
b
What size drain line is REQUIRED for the auxiliary
or secondary drain system used with an air
conditioning system cooling coil?
a. Minimum of 1/2 inch.
b. Minimum of 3/4 inch.
c. Minimum of 1 inch.
d. Such a line is not required.
b
Nonmetallic sheathed cable (Romex) is generally
considered an acceptable type of wiring for
a. providing underground service to detached
buildings on the same lot.
b. use within ceiling and wall spaces.
c. use within attic spaces, but only if mounted
above accessible floor insulation.
d. use on exposed surfaces of basements and
garages.
b
An inspector is REQUIRED to put which of the
following information on a written inspection
report?
a. List of items in the order they appear in the
Standards of Practice.
b. Inspector's license number and name.
c. List of the toxic waste substances found during
the inspection.
d. Duration of the inspection.
a
A positive drainage slope away from a house
foundation of 5% is equal to a
a. 6-inch drop in 10 feet.
b. 6-inch drop in 5 feet.
c. 12-inch drop in 10 feet.
d. 12-inch drop in 5 feet.
d
Which of the following siding materials is MOST
prone to moisture intrusion?
a. Wood clapboard.
b. T-111.
c. Cement fiber siding.
d. EIFS synthetic.
d
All of the following are requirements for
nonmetallic sheathed cable (Romex) EXCEPT that it
MUST be
a. secured to the wall every 4 1/2 feet.
b. secured within 12 inches of the panel box.
c. clamped securely to the panel box or within 8
inches of the box.
d. pulled tightly across bends with less than five
times the conductor.
c
Soft spots have risen above the surrounding surface
of a 20-year-old flat built-up roof. The roof has
gravel over the flood coating of asphaltic material.
The soft spots are MOST likely due to
a. spot failure which should be sliced and
flattened and then sealed with hot asphalt or
cold patching material.
b. the failure of the roofing system which will
require a tear off and replacement.
c. moisture which has gotten in between the
plies.
d. the gravel coating was not evenly distributed.
d
A temperature and pressure relief valve installed
on a water heater should be piped to
a. a drain.
b. the outside and within 6 inches of the ground.
c. a catch pan under the floor.
d. either a drain or to the outside and not closer
than 6 inches to the ground.
b
All of the following are REQUIRED by the Standards
of Practice to be inspected EXCEPT
a. range exhaust vents.
b. water ionization devices.
c. whole-house vacuum systems.
d. electric heaters in bathrooms.
B
An inspector applicant has completed additional
core real estate inspection courses or has
inspection-related work experience. Which of the
following licensing conditions may be waived?
a. Passing the required examination.
b. Completing supervised inspections.
c. Satisfactory background check.
d. Annual continuing education.
B
Downwarping of a foundation in clay soil may be
caused by
a. excessive watering.
b. drying edge effect.
c. solar flaring.
d. masonry expansion.
D
All of the following may cause cracks in the brick
veneer on a home EXCEPT
a. thermal stress.
b. lack of brick ties.
c. foundation movement.
d. lack of a vapor barrier.
A
Repeated, visible sagging for a span of 24 inches in
a roof is usually caused by
a. thin plywood sheathing.
b. improper nailing of roof sheathing.
c. rafter failure.
d. truss failure.
C
What is the MINIMUM length permitted for a plug-in
type of cord on a trash compactor?
a. 12 inches.
b. 18 inches.
c. 36 inches.
d. 48 inches.
D
For a claim arising after September 1, 2001, what is
the MAXIMUM amount that may be paid from the
Real Estate Inspection Recovery Fund for all claims
against a single inspector?
a. $7,500
b. $12,500
c. $25,000
d. $30,000
a
What is the MINIMUM wire size for 30 amps?
a. 10 AWG copper.
b. 12 AWG copper.
c. 12 AWG aluminum.
d. 14 AWG aluminum.
b
Which of the following framing types is continuous
from the foundation up to the roof?
a. Mortise and tenon framing.
b. Balloon framing.
c. Pole framing.
d. Platform framing.
c
An air conditioning system is being inspected for
proper cooling. What should be the range of the
temperature drop across the coil?
a. 4 degrees F to 9 degrees F.
b. 10 degrees F to 15 degrees F.
c. 14 degrees F to 22 degrees F.
d. 22 degrees F to 27 degrees F.
b
In cavity wall construction, masonry units that are
turned into the wall and straddle both wythes are
called
a. holders.
b. headers.
c. stackers.
d. soldiers.
b
What malfunctioning component causes an odor
around a toilet?
a. Tank gasket.
b. Wax ring.
c. Flapper seal.
d. Vent.
d
A sagging roof can indicate a problem with all of
the following EXCEPT the
a. bracing.
b. rafter spans.
c. rafter spacing.
d. cat walk.
b
What is the MAXIMUM overcurrent protection for
#12 copper?
a. 15 amps.
b. 20 amps.
c. 30 amps.
d. 40 amps.
b
Of the nine members of the Texas Real Estate
Inspector Committee, what is the MAXIMUM number
of committee members that may hold a Real Estate
Broker's license?
a. One
b. Three
c. Six
d. Seven
C
Which of the following sanctions is the Texas Real
Estate Commission authorized to order if it finds an
inspector in violation of the law?
a. Reimbursement to a consumer.
b. A cease and desist order.
c. Payment of an administrative penalty.
d. Payment of the costs of the hearing.
D
What is the MINIMUM REQUIRED overhead clearance
for any conductor that runs above a swimming
pool?
a. 12 feet.
b. 16 feet.
c. 18 feet.
d. 22 feet.
C
The painted wood siding and trim on one side of
the house show considerable weathering. On the
other side, the paint is NOT weathered at all but
has mildew. This is MOST likely due to
a. improper surface preparation when it was last
painted.
b. defective siding material.
c. the orientation of the house with respect to the
sun.
d. an incompetent painter.
d
All of the following are approved for use in water
supply pipes EXCEPT
a. galvanized steel.
b. copper.
c. plastic.
d. rubber.
A
What causes the rumbling noise from some electric
water heaters when the heating elements are
energized?
a. Sediment.
b. Electric arcing.
c. Pressure relief valve.
d. Thermostatic arcing.
c
What malfunctioning component causes water to
continuously drain from the bottom opening of a
toilet tank?
a. Cracked tank lid.
b. Flush handle.
c. Flapper seal.
d. Pin valve.
C
A diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filter:
A. Should be backwashed when pressure reaches 15 psi.
B. Is Not found on residential pools
C. Removes smallest particles
D. Looks just like a sand filter
B
Mustard algae stains:
A. Are green in color
B. Are reddish brown and often mistaken for rust
C. Are yellow in color
B
All of the following are true about PVC pipes at a pool are true EXCEPT:
A. UV rays can cause the pipes to become brittle
B. Painting the pipes is not sufficient protection against UV rays.
C. They are susceptible to UV rays.
D
Of the following, which best describes a skimmer?
A. It is located in front of the pump
B. It is part of the circulation system
C. It is connected directly to the backwash valve
D. It is an ABS plastic container installed at water level on the sidewall of the pool
C
Why are cracks and gaps at the coping and grouting important to note in your report?
A. May cause a trip hazard
B. Coping is expensive to repair
C. They can allow water to get behind or beneath coping or decking materials and pool liner
D. Esthetically, cracks are an eyesore
A
[Pool & Spa] All of the following about a self-fill are true EXCEPT:
A. The crock is made of PVC plastic
B. Are usually subject to local plumbing code
C. Must have anti-siphon/backflow prevention device
D. The crock is usually located near the edge of the pool
A
Cartridge filter:
A. Cleaning recommended when pressure is 8-10 pounds above normal operating pressure
B. Often mistaken for a sand filter
C. Contains Zeolite
D. The pores are 25-30 microns
B
Sand filter:
A. Looks just like a D.E. filter
B. The pores are 25-30 microns
C. Is only found in older pools
C
What is the recommended maximum water temperature for a spa?
A. Whatever is comfortable for the homeowner
B. 99 degrees
C. 104 degrees
D. 100 degrees
Clear up algae
The circulatory system moves water for all of the following are purposes EXCEPT:
- Heat
- Remove debris
- Circulate
- Filter
- Clear up algae
A
Which of the following is false about the gunite for a pool shell?
A. Water is mixed into cement
B. Applied by a hose with water nozzle ate end
C. Water and cement are pre-mixed then delivered to site
D. Sprayed over a rebar frame
B
Which of the following is true about pool fencing?
A. Gates should open toward the pool
B. Reasonable height is 4.5 to 5 feet
C. Gates should open away from the yard
D. A reasonable height is 3 to 4 feet
C
Two types of ignition found in fossil fuel pool heaters are:
A. Digital or Analog
B. Manual or Automatic
C. Millivolt or Electronic
D. A 240v disconnect at the pool sub panel
D
What is a simple formula for sizing fossil fuel heaters?
A. Never determine sizing of a heater
B. Convert the BTU's to tonnage and divide by 12
C. Determine the surface area of the pool and multiply by 333
D. Figure 333 BTU's per 100sf of estimated pool surface area
A
Fulcrum is best described as the:
A. Point where the diving board pivots or bends
B. The distance from the rear of a diving board to the pivot point
C. The distance the slide extends over the water from the pool's edge
D. Manufacturer of slides and diving boards
C
According to Standards of Practice for inspecting pools, the inspector shall observe:
A. Type and condition of finish treatments
B. Water clarity
C. Presence or Absence of child safe barriers
D. Type of filtering system
D
Yard fencing:
A. Is required when pool is in the yard
B. Is a responsible way to create a child safe barrier between the house and pool
C. Causes drowning accidents
D. Should be equipped with a self-closing and self-latching gate when a pool is present
B
A trait of plaster pool liners is:
A. It is always white
B. It is alkaline and raises the water's PH
C. Pigment must be added
D. The surface is abrasive to the skin
A
What are considered daily run times for the pool pump?
A. 6-8 hours
B. 10-12 hours
C. 4-6 hours
D. 2-3 hours
B
An important item to note about inspecting aggregate pool liners is:
A. It is just like plaster
B. The defects are more difficult to see
C. Vinyl is better
D. It is a substandard material
C
According to the Standards of Practice for inspecting pools, the inspector shall operate:
A. Electrical components
B. Plumbing supply
C Heater, using normal operating controls
A
A wrinkled vinyl liner is usually the result of:
A. Draining the pool
B. UV damage to the liner
C. Improper installation
D. Improper or overuse of chemicals
A
All of the following are true about how shotcrete is prepared and applied EXCEPT:
A. Water is mixed into cement mix on site
B. Applied by a hose
C. Sprayed over a rebar frame
D. Water and cement pre-mixed then delivered to site
C
A Safety Vacuum Release System(SVRS):
A. Divides suction between two drains
B. Is installed on most pools
C. Shuts off pump or introduces air into suction lines to release swimmers trapped at drains
D. Allows the homeowner to remove the inline filter basket while the pump is running
D
Which of the following is true about the main drain at the pool?
A. Always poses an entrapment hazard
B. Is the only path back to the pump and filter
C. Drains directly into the sewer
D. Has considerable suction power
A
The inspector should _______ and _______ their client's interest.
A. Protect/Promote
B. Influence/Persuade
B
Inspectors shall not accept
employment to repair, replace, maintain or upgrade systems or components
of property covered by the Standards of Practice on which the Inspector
has performed an inspection under a real estate contract, lease or
exchange or real property within ____ months of the date of the
inspection.
A. 6
B. 12
C. 0
D. 10
A
Inspectors can perform inspections when?
A. Actively licensed
B. Inactively licensed
C. Suspended
D. Training
False
An inspector does not need consent from the client to disclose report findings with others.
True or False
A
An inspector's license was
reprimanded and he was penalized _______ for making material
misstatement of fact regarding criminal offenses on real.
A. $1,500
B. $10,000
C. $500
D. $1,000
Cooperate
Inspectors should _________ with other inspectors.
- Argue
- Compete
- Ignore
- Cooperate
False
An inspector may share his fee with the real estate agent, with or without consent.
True or False
B
________ Professional Conduct and Ethics outlines the rules of professional conduct for home inspectors.
A. 535.226
B. 535.220
A
TREC ____________ the sue of contracts for inspections.
A. Does not require
B. Requires
C. Suggests
D. Issues
C
A client thinks an inspector was negligent, they should contact the _________ to discuss filing a law suit.
A. TREC
B. Education Committee
C. Attorney
D. Another Inspector
10 feet
To prevent back-drafting at chimney, an open return should be within _______. If not, it will be reported as a safety hazard.
Should
If an inspector has knowledge of a
possible violation of the rules of TREC, the inspector ______ report
the possible violation to the Texas Real estate Commission.
- Should
- Should not
False
A licensed real state salesperson can also inspect the property if they hold both licenses.
True or False
D
An inspector's license was
reprimanded and he was penalized _______ for failing to protect the
public against fraud, misrepresentation or unethical practices in the
field of real estate inspections and/or inspection business while
associated with him.
A. $500
B. $10,000
C. $5,000
D. $1,000
A
Under which rule do real estate licenses have a duty to disclose their relationship to the inspector and to the client.
A. 535.156
B. 585.186
Class A
If you are found guilty of inspecting a property without a license, what class would your misdemeanor be?
- Class B
- Class F
- Class A
A
The inspector _______ the duty of
protecting the public against fraud, misrepresentation or unethical
practices in the field of real estate inspections.
A. Accepts
B. Challenges.
C. Doesn't have
False
If you operate both an inspection business and a home repair business, you can do repairs on the same home you inspected.
True or False
False
Inspectors can advertise they are wood destroying insect inspectors, even if not licensed by the SPCS.
True or False
client
Inspectors should always be thinking of the:
- Next inspections
- Third party
- Themselves
- Client
True
As an inspector, you are required to keep current E&O insurance on file with TREC.
True or False
B
The inspector is not required to determine ___________ _____________ of any system or component.
A. Years of age
B. Life expectancy
C. Make and model
D. Working properly
A
If a client has questions regarding their inspection report, they should ask:
A. The inspector
B. The realtor
C. The Loan officer
D. TREC
False
There is no need for inspectors to maintain and increase their level of knowledge of the field.
True or False
B
Failing to provide indirect
supervision or a real estate inspector sponsored by the professional
inspector in a manner to protect the public is a violation of:
A. 22 TAC 585.226
B 22 TAC 535.226(f)
High
Inspectors must maintain a ________ standard of professionalism.
- Low
- Open
- Medium
- High
D
An inspector was fined ________ after they engaged in the conduct of a home inspection after their license was revoked.
A. $3,000
B. $0
C. $10,000
D. $5,000
B
The inspector is not required to:
A. Report deficiencies in material used for venting systems
B. Determine type of material contained in insulation, wrapping of pipes, ducts, jackets
C. Report flue or vent pipes that do not properly terminate
B
The inspector is not required to report:
A. The type of foundation
B. Anything that is not accessible
C. As in need of repair, a crawl space that is not adequately ventilated
A
The inspector is not required to:
A. Report in need of repair, a shower enclosure that leaks
B. Operate plumbing shut0off valves
C. Inspect system that has been shut down
False
The inspector shall operate the cooling system when the outside temperature is greater than 55 degrees.
True or False
A
The inspector is not required to report:
A. Conditions of paint stains or other surface coatings
B. Safety glazing in hazardous locations
C. As in need of repair, damaged glazing in windows
True
According to the TREC SOP, the
inspector must report the method used to inspect the roof, if the
inspection is performed from any place other than a roof level.
True or False
B
The inspector needs to report:
A. The condition and presence of storm windows
B. Any locks on exterior doors that do not operate
A
The inspector is not required to report:
A. The adequacy of the draft
B. Fireplace dampers that do not work
False
The balusters of a deck less than 30" off the ground must have no more than 4" between them.
True or False?
C
The inspector is required to:
A. Operate steam systems
B. Determine the adequacy of heating systems
C. Report if he/she deemed the furnace to be inaccessible
A
The inspector is not required to:
A. Operate free-standing appliances
B. Report supply and drain pipes that leak
2
The inspector is not required to enter a crawl space if the width of the access opening is less than ____ feet.
True
An inspector shall exclude from
the inspection any part, component or system which the inspector is not
competent or qualified to inspect.
True or False
False
An inspector must include in the report all components or systems that are found in a home.
True or False
B
The inspector is not required to report on:
A. Visible evidence of moisture penetration
B. Efficiency, adequacy, or capacity of the system
C. Inadequate attic space ventilation
B
The inspector is not required to:
A. Report the need of repairing damaged glazing in windows and exterior doors
B. Determine the presence of, or extent or type of, insulation or vapor barrier in exterior walls
A
The inspector is required to:
A. Report systems that do not operate properly using normal controls
B. Inspect humidifiers
C. Inspect and report on heat exchangers
B
The inspector is NOT required to:
A. Report switches that are not in safe locations or do not operate
B. Inspect self-cleaning functions of appliances
B
The inspector is required to report on:
A. Gas log lighter valves that do not function
B. All answers correct
C. Deficiencies in combustion air vent
D. Gas leak
C
The inspector is required to:
A. Inspect sprinkler systems
B. Inspect fire sprinkler system
C. Report deficiencies in functional drainage
False
An inspector must include in the report all components or systems that are found in a home.
True or False
False
The balusters of a detached deck over 30" off the ground must have a spacing of no more than 4" between them
True or False?
Reverse Polarity
If the neutral and hot wires are reversed at a receptacle, this condition referred is called:
D
According to the rules of the Texas Real Estate Commission, an inactive inspector may:
A. Sponsor a Real Estate Inspector
B. Sponsor an apprentice real estate inspector
C. Perform inspections in association with an active professional inspector
D. Not perform inspections
D
During the inspection the inspector needs to remove the service panel cover to determine what?
A. The insurability of the property
B. The accuracy of breaker labeling
C. Amount of trash in the panel
D. Type of branch circuit wiring
1 inch
The required air gap between the water discharge level and the float on an evaporator cooler is
- 1 inch
- 2 inches
- 3 inches
- 4 inches
B
What type of pipe should be used to carry natural gas through a residential structure?
A. PVC
B. Black Iron
B
The minimum headroom for working spaces for service equipment and panel boards shall be ____ feet.
A. 3 1/2
B. 6 1/2
C
When inspecting a dishwasher, which item does not need to be done?
A. Look for signs of rust
B. Check the soap dish
C. Determine water temperature
D. Check to insure the dishwater is securely mounted
B
An air conditioning unit located in an attic can be located how far away from the attic access opening?
A. 20 feet
B. 30 feet
B
During an inspection of a swimming pool, an inspector is not required to:
A. Report above-ground water leaks
B. Report the height of the local subsurface water table
C. Report deficiencies in pool decks
D. Report deficiencies in pool lights
A
When inspecting stairways, porches and decks, all must have:
A. Be at least 3 feet wide
B. Be strong enough to support 200 psi
C. Be at least 6 feet 8 inches wide
6
Vents stacks connected in any
combination to a common vent shall be at least ___ inches above the
flood-level rim of the highest fixture.
- 8
- 6
B
A GFCI which does not operate should be reported in accordance with:
A. National Electrical Code of 1998
B. National Electrical Code of 1984
A
On a polarized 3 wire receptacle,
the hot conductor is connected to the ______ screw and the neutral
conductor is connected to the ______ screw.
A. Brass/Silver
B. Chrome/White
A
A clothes dryer vent line duct:
A. Can pass through a ventilation duct
B. Can be secured with sheet metal screws
D
Water hammering is caused by:
A. Worn out washers in compression faucets
B. Worn out washers in non-compression faucets
C. Improper selection of piping materials
D. Improper sizing pipes
B
Mechanical draft systems vent
terminals shall be located not less than __ feet below, ___ feet
horizontally from, or ___ feet above a door, window or gravity air inlet
into a dwelling.
A. 3-4-1
B. 4-4-1
A
When inspecting a trash compactor, an inspector is not require to:
A. Calculate the pressure of compaction
B. Determine if the unit is securely mounted
C. Report unusual noises when unit operated
D
The T&P relief line cannot:
A. Be reduced in size
B. Be threaded on one end
C. Be trapped
D. All the above
B
The rattling of plumbing pipes that occurs when water flow is suddenly reduced, causing a shock wave, is called:
A. Hydraulic compression
B. Water hammering
A
In Texas, which state agency licenses and controls wood destroying insect inspectors?
A. Texas Structural Pest Control Board
B. Texas Insect Control Board
2 years
According to the rules of TREC,
no action for a judgment that results in an order for collection from
the real estate inspection recovery fund shall be started later than:
- 1 year
- 2 years
D
A casement window is hinged on:
A. The bottom only
B. Two sides
C. The top only
D. One side only
A
While inspecting a tar and gravel roof, what would indicate that the roof is failing?
A. Delamination
B. Ponding of water on a roof
B
Piping installed deeper than and parallel to footings or bearing walls shall be ___ degrees.
A. 30
B. 45
B
Downwarping occurs when:
A. Moisture along the foundation perimeter is removed
B. Expansive clay soil dries and then shrinks along the foundation perimeter causing the foundation to settle
C. Expansive clay soil dries then shrinks along the foundation perimeter causing the foundation to rise
D. Moist clay soil expands along the foundation perimeter
D
When inspecting a pier and beam
foundation, an inspector must observe the crawl space area by entering
it if there is a minimum of ____ inches headroom in the crawl space.
A. 12
B. 25
C. 36
D. 18
D
In an air conditioning system,
the purpose of the __________ is to absorb heat from the air before the
air travels to the conditioned space.
A. Flow valve
B. Condenser
C. Compressor
D. Evaporator
A
According to the SOP, when inspecting a kitchen range exhaust vent, an inspector is not required to:
A. Calculate the air flow of the exhaust fan for each setting
B. Report absence of a range exhaust vent
C. Operate the blower at all speeds
D. Determine if the vent pipe terminates outside the structure
B
The minimum thickness of a residential exterior door is:
A. 1 1/8 inches
B. 1 3/8 inches
C. 2 inches
D. 1 1/4 inches
24
The passage way to appliances in an attic must be at least ____ inches wide and floored.
- 30
- 22
- 18
- 24
B
An A/C unit manufacturer's label plate is not required to list:
A. Design pressure
B. Name of manufacturer
200
Before a Professional Inspector
may sponsor an Apprentice, the Professional must have completed a
minimum of how many inspections as a Professional Inspector?
- 150
- 175
- 300
- 200
A
All swimming pools, spas, and hot
tubs must be enclosed with a fence, building wall, or a wall that
completely surrounds and obstructs access to the swimming pool. The top
of the obstruction, whether a fence or a wall, must be a minimum of ____
inches above grade.
A. 48
B. 44
C. 40
D. 36
A
Corner pops in a concrete foundation with brick veneer walls are due to:
A. Excessive spalling of the concrete
B. Un-tensioned cables
C. Excessive moisture in the brick
D. Over-tensions cables
A
Gas outlets located in fireplaces
shall be controlled by listed and labeled shutoff valves located in the
same room outside the hearth and no more than ____ feet from the
outlets.
A. 6
B. 2
C. 4
D. 3
B
For a pier and beam house, the drain line from the temperature and pressure relief valve must:
A. Connect and drain to the soil pipe
B. Gravity drain to the exterior
B
Type L venting systems shall
terminate not less than ____ feet above the roof and not less than ____
above any portion of the building within 10 feet.
A. 3-3
B. 3-2
C
Each license applicant must
satisfy the examination requirement not later than how many months after
the date on which the license application is filed?
A. 9
B. 1
C. 6
D. 3
C
The real estate agent requests a copy of your inspection report:
A. You would give a copy as a professional courtesy
B. You would never give a copy to a Realtor
C. You would get permission from your client
A
What is the required duct size for a dryer vent?
A. 4 inches
B. 5 inches
C. 6 inches
D. 3 inches
A
A 3-tab asphalt shingle can be installed on pitches as low as 2/12, if the roof:
A. If there are two layers of roofing felt under the shingles
B. If the roof has a hot tar roof coating
A
Garage door requirement for garages built before 1978:
A. Needs safety wire through spring coil
B. Must have a child safety switch
B
What size should TPR valve extension piping be?
A. 3/4 inches
B. Same size as the valve its connected to
A
The homeowner is an electrician
and states he pushed the aluminum wires into the back of the receptacle.
How should this be reported?
A. Recommend a UL approved crimp method
B. Say nothing - he could be lying
A
On a clay tile roof, what is the principle waterproofing?
A. Tarpaper (underlayment)
B. Mortar at ridge and valleys
C. Batters
D. Mortar between edges
B
Why are cracks and gaps at the coping and gouting important to note in your report?
A. May cause a trip hazard
B. They can allow water to get behind or beneath coping or decking materials and pool liner
B
How is the electrical system in most older homes grounded?
A. Ground rods
B. Water supply piping
B
If a natural gas appliance is changed to LP gas, you need:
A. You can not change for gas to propane
B. A smaller orifice
C
What is E&O?
A. Energy and Output Evaluation
B. General Liability Insurance
C. Errors and Omission Insurance
B
If wood siding is cracking, bulging or sagging, you should suspect:
A. Rot and/or inspect infestation
B. Structural deficiencies in framing
D
A electric dryer receptacle:
A. Must be a dedicated circuit
B. May be 120 volts
C. May have 4 wires to it
D. All of the above
A
Three entrance cables providing service to a house indicates:
A. 120/240 volts
B. Three phase service
D
How often should an oil furnace be turned up?
A. Biannually
B. Biennially
C. Semiannually
D. Annually
B
Which of the following is true?
A. If you reporting skills are good enough, the client doesn't need to attend the home inspection
B. What is written in the report should be a reflection of what the inspector tells the client in person
D
Romex wiring can be used
A. In garage with proper height
B. In the attic nailed to the top of the joist
C. Outside
D. All of the above
B
What type of roof requires an interlayment of felt between courses?
A. Roll Roofing
B. Wood shakes
A
The most likely area to find a crack or hole in the heat exchanger is:
A. In front, behind the heat shield
B. In the top of the heat exchanger
False
Two 3-foot appliance connectors can be connected to make a 6-foot connection.
True or False
D
Deck joist - what is the proper attachment to house?
A. Bolts
B. Direct nail
C. Toe nail
D. Joist hanger
B
Good stair design has a maximum rise of __ to __ and a minimum tread width of __.
A. 8" to 8 1/4" and 10"
B. 7 1/4" to 8" and 10"
A
Professional Liability Insurance is often referred to as:
A. Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance
B. General Liability Insurance
D
The following roof type requires waterproof underlayment:
A. Asphalt
B. Metal
C. Tile
D. None of the above
A
Substantial movement of a building can be explained by all of the following except:
A. Missing lintels
B. Soft soil
C. Poor grading
D. Missing frost footings
B
Sometimes, despite best efforts, you may have an unreasonable client, in these cases you need ________ to fall back on.
A. Real Estate Agent
B. Contract
B
Which of the following is a sign of water penetration through a foundation wall?
A. Water stains around the floor drain
B. Efflorescence on the wall
C. Delamination of the subfloor
D. Rotted girder or joist
A
A cedar shake roof will wear out first or show light through the felt first:
A. Between the shakes
B. At the shakes end
C
How do you check if a shower door has safety glazing?
A. The glass will be foggy
B. There will be wire mesh
C. It will be marked in the corner
D. Hit the glass with a hammer
D
The function of the barometric damper is to:
A. Prevent backdrafting
B. Cool flue
C. Provide combustion air
D. Provide draft regulation
A
Inspectors are required to report on:
A. Garage door openers
B. Underground sprinkler systems
C. Garage door opener remotes
D. Inspectors do not inspect exteriors
A
Which of the following insulation materials is not a potential carcinogen?
A. Styrofoam
B. Fiberglass
D
Inspectors should report their findings:
A. Based upon emotion
B. In a manner in which would create conflict of interest
C. In an effort to please real estate agent
D. In a fair, impartial and professional manner
A
An inspector enters a vacant home to inspect it and notices a strong smell of gas. What should he/she do?
A. Vacate the home and call the appropriate people
B. Do nothing and continue with the inspection
C. Open the windows and inspect the home
D. Investigate the smell and attempt to repair it
A
In EIFS construction doors and windows can be properly sealed by:
A. Backer rod and sealant
B. Caulk
D
The floor joists of a deck are attached by joist hangers. There is one nail in a joist hanger hole. What do you tell the client?
A. Do not buy the house
B. It's ok
C. Have an engineer examine
D. Each hole needs proper size nail
A
Oil tank - Pipes from tank to burners:
A. Must be protected from damage
B. Must have one copper pipe
B
When inspecting kitchen cabinets:
A. Remove everything from the cabinets and inspect the attachment method
B. Observe that they are securely attached to the wall
C. Report unable to determine method
False
Inspectors should inspect homes in which they have, or expect to have, a financial interest.
True or False
A
What is the recommended minimum water temperature for a spa?
A. What is comfortable for the owner
B. 104 degrees Fahrenheit
B
Doors connecting the garage and the house should:
A. self-closing
B. All answers are correct
C. Be solid-core wood or metal
D. Be weather stripped
A
Converting a heating system fan to cooling type fan requires:
A. A 2-speed or variable speed fan
B. Nothing
False
Limiting your liability to the
inspection fee in your preinspection contract works every time because
once the sign it they are stuck with it.
True or False
D
A post-tension monolithic slab on grade foundation should not have:
A. Cables
B. Aggregate
C. Greased sleeves
D. Exposed cable ends
A
"Foundation improperly designed for these soil conditions" is a
A. Engineering comment
B. Comment
B
When weight is applied on top of a floor joist, what kind of pressure is applied to the bottom?
A. Compression
B. Tension
C
The focus of a contract with a client should be:
A. To gain referrals
B. To limit liability
C. To maximize the clients understanding of what you will not do during the inspection
D. To gain repair work after the inspection
A
The following can be run under a concrete floor, except:
A. Gas pipe
B. Water line
C. Drain line
D. Electrical conduit
C
In balloon framing, the studs are:
A. 2x4 16" on center
B. 2x6 24" on center
C. Continuous from foundation to the roof line
D. Seated on top of joist and deck sheathing
A
Retaining wall - 8" block with 3" displacement:
A. Recommend repair
B. Up to 4-inche displacement OK
B
The relief valve for a water heater must be installed:
A. Only in hot water pipe
B. With stem directly in tank (top 6")
A
Ladder falls on a car while you are doing an inspection. What type of insurance covers this?
A. General Liability
B. Professional Liability
B
Common Temperature Rise with an old furnace:
A. 30 - 60 degrees
B. 70 - 100 degrees
C. 25 - 45 degrees
D. 150 - 180 degrees
B
Plumbing vent must terminate at least?
A. 6 feet from window and 10 feet above
B. 10 feet from window and 6 feet above roof
B
Wall cracks should be
investigated to determine if structural rot, structural cracking,
foundation settlement or pulled fastenings have occurred if the crack is
wider than:
A. 1/2"
B. 1/4"
B
What causes bowing of the chimney above the roof in an older house?
A. Sun
B. Concrete expansion from shady side
A
Double-tapping on a circuit breaker is allowed:
A. Breaker is designed for double-tapping
B. Never
A
What is the minimum diameter and the minimum extension above the roofline of a vent pipe to prevent frost closure (per IRC)
A. 3"/6" above snowline
B. 3"/6"
B
A masonry building, circa 1910,
has a horizontal metal star bolted to it on the outside at the top of
first floor. These pieces are:
A. Used to secure area around window openings
B. Used to anchor the wall structure to the roof
C. Installed for decorative purposes
D. To fill holes from a portion of a structure that was removed
B
What is the most likely reason for bulging vinyl siding?
A. Moisture behind vinyl
B. Improper nailing
C
What is not a safety hazard in a stairway?
A. Missing spindles
B. Uneven risers
C. Mid stairs landing
D. Torn carpet
A
A non-technically exhaustive way to evaluate the heat exchanger?
A. Check flame pattern when blower comes
B. Remove plenum and inspect visually
C. Inspect register covers for soot
D. Water pressure test
B
Maximum safe temperature setting of a hot water heater:
A. 115 - 125 degrees
B. 115 - 120 degrees
C. 105 - 115 degrees
D. 125 - 130 degrees
A
What is truss uplift?
A. A bowing upward of the truss's bottom chord
B. Where the roof load pushes the rafters upward
A
Most common problem with a deck ledger board:
A. Improper flashing
B. Supported by studs
C. Siding damaged
D. Rotten boards
D
Electrical fuse panel has a bunch of 15 amp blown fuses lying around. What do you tell the client?
A. Nothing, everything is correct
B. The homeowner never throws anything away
C. The 30 amp fuses installed in place of the 15 amps has solved the problem
D. It is likely that at least one circuit is carrying too much current
D
Sub-panel require neutrals and grounds to be separated and isolated. What is another term for this?
A. Ungrounded
B. Floating ground
C. Bonding
D. Floating neutral
D
To extend the life of a water heater:
A. Put cover on tank
B. Insulate hot water pipe
C. Turn up the temperature for a length of time
D. Change out an anode rod
B
Walls and ceilings in an attached garage must:
A. Have one door or one window installed
B. Form a fire separation from the house in most jurisdictions
C. Be constructed of wood
C
Flue covered with creosote:
A. Common not a problem
B. Protects flue
C. Safety hazard
D. Is dull black
C
You are inspecting a wood retaining wall. You notice 6" x 6" squares every four feet along the wall:
A. These are decoration
B. These don't mean anything
C. These are part of the tie back system
B
On a tile roof what is the proper way to flash around the chimney?
A. Counter and step flashing
B. Counter and pan flashing
False
Home inspectors do not need to pay income tax for the inspections they perform.
True or False
A
What is the maximum length of a flexible gas appliance connector to a dryer or range?
a. 6-feet
b. 3-feet
c. 18-inches
d. 48-inches
A
What is a sign of a cracked heat exchanger?
A. Flame distortion
B. Dirty registers
C. Poor pilot performance
D. Dirty burners
A
A temperature pressure relief valve on a water heater that is installed above the tank in the pipe is wrong why?
A. Must be installed within the top 6 inches of the tank
B. Must be installed within the top 8 inches of the tank
A
What size copper wire is required for 40, 30, 20, and 15 amp breakers?
A. 8, 10, 12, 14
B. 10, 12, 14, 16
D
What is the best ventilation in the winter?
A. O'Hagin vents
B. Louvered gable
C. Gable and turbine
D. Ridge and soffit
B
General Liability insurance:
A. Will protect the inspector if there is an error in the report
B. Provides coverage from property damage, such as a ladder falling over and breaking the homeowner's windshield
A
The preferred way to place a girder in a pocket of a concrete foundation is:
A. To leave 1/2" clearance at the ends and sides of girder
B. To install felt paper between the girder and the concrete
B
Stucco hairline cracks appear every 16". The cause can be attributed to:
A. Shrinkage
B. Nailing drywall on inside
C. Improper installation
D. None of the above
B
Inspectors can show the report to:
A. Anyone the inspector wants to
B. Anyone the client approves
C. Electricians for hire
B
Where is the circulating pump for hydronic heating system normally located?
A. Don't have one
B. Return side
C. Supply side
D. Middle
A
What is the minimum diameter and extension above the roof line of a vent pipe to prevent frost/snow closure?
A. 3 inch diameter and 6 inch above snow line
B. 4 inch diameter and 12 inch extension
False
A house has recently been
re-sided with vinyl; the vinyl has been insulated over the electric
feed conduit from below the mast to the meter. This is okay.
True or False
B
Describe a French drain or dry well:
A. A gravel pit that accepts waste from the plumbing system
B. A buried gravel pit designed to allow water to accumulate quickly and dissipate slowly by soaking into the soil
C. Can be used instead of a septic system
B
What is the general use of a type B vent?
A. Oil fired appliance only
B. Gas fired appliance
C. Gasoline
D. Solid fuel appliance only
B
Two small copper pipes going through a basement wall indicates:
A. Water pipes
B. Possible underground storage tank
D
An inspector is required to inspect at least:
A. All the windows
B. 50% of all windows
C. None of the windows
D. One window in each room
B
Where concrete is poured on earth to construct a floor, the minimum thickness of the concrete should be:
A. 3"
B. 3 1/2"
A
When is NOT the time to sign your inspection agreement?
A. After the home inspection is completed
B. In the Realtor's office before the inspection
B
Flushing a toilet in a house that has been vacant for six months produces a gurgling in the tub drain. This is because:
A. It is forcing water into the tub drain
B. It is improperly vented (or unvented)
B
Given that you have a #6 AWG copper wire, 100 amp main breaker and a panel rated for 150 amps, what is the service average?
A. 100 and all is good
B. 60 and safety hazard
A
The remark 'low slope roof appears to be in good condition for its age' is a:
A. Finding
B. Engineering comment
A
A fireplace with an opening less than 6' needs to have the hearth extend ____" to front and ____" to side:
A. 16"/8"
B. 16"/16"
C. 16"/4"
D. 20"/8"
A
An electrical panel with a split bus-bar:
A. Has more than one shut off
B. Breaker above controls other breakers
B
Which of the following statements
is TRUE for a cooling unit located in an attic where damage may result
from condensate overflow?
A. Attic ventilation must be increased to avoid condensation
B. A pan with a drain or float switch is required beneath the evaporator unit
B
A furnace has a pilot, thermocouple setup. What shuts down the burner?
A. Shut-off valve
B. Thermocouple
B
Maximum offset of a wall perpendicular to the joist from a bearing wall below?
A. 12 inches
B. 1 joist depth
B
A hyrdronic or forced (hot water) boiler system is:
A. An antiquated way of heating residential structures
B. Closed to the atmosphere and under pressure
B
A fireplace hearth should be:
A. 5 inches thick
B. Distinguishable from surrounding floor
C. Level with floor
D. Lower than floor
B
In an electrical sub panel, the neutral wire must be:
A. Wired to ground
B. Both separated from ground and isolated from the panel
C. Isolated
D. separated from the ground
D
Three wires at a masthead, one tied back, what kind of service is this?
A. 240 volt
B. 100 amp
C. 60 amp
D. None of these
B
All of the following are considered defects on a garage door opener except:
A. Electronic sensors mounted 12 inches off the floor
B. Missing remote controls
B
Where should TPR extension terminate?
A. Attic
B. Within 6 inches of the floor or ground
C. Plumbing vent pipe
D. Plumbed to drain line
Center
A whole drilled through a joist for plumbing or electrical should be located at/in the:
- Any location
- Bottom
- Top
- Center
A
During heat pump operation, supplemental heat may be provided by:
A. Electrical heat strips
B. Nothing
A
A home is built with a second
floor and a trussed attic/roof above it. Which one of the following is
not a consideration when determining joist depth?
A. The depth of the insulation to be installed
B. The eventual use of the attic
A
Where will you find a drip leg on a gas heating unit?
A. Where the gas line turns to meet the heating unit
B. There is none
B
When converting a gas forced air furnace to heat pump, the duct work is:
A. Properly sized
B. Undersized and may or may not perform adequately
B
When inspecting the A/C unit, you find supply air to be 64 degrees and return air to be 90 degrees. What would your report?
A. Change filter
B. Call technician
C. OK
D. None of the above
A
Temperature/pressure relief valves are typically rated at?
A. 150 psi and 210 degrees F
B. 110 psi and 210 degrees F
A
It is better to:
A. Attempt to resolve complaints immediately
B. Admit fault if a customer has a complaint
B
Visualize a basement stairway with one side against a wall. What is not a safety hazard?
A. Odd risers
B. No handrail on wall side
C. Open railing on open side
C
A statement in a report states a low slope roof appears to be in good shape for it age. This is an:
A. Description
B. Inappropriate comment
C. Conclusion or finding
A
Sump pump runs even though it has been dry (no rain) for a long time. What is the cause?
A. Float stuck
B. Float above water level
B
What determines the amount of electricity (amperage) a wire can carry?
A. Type (stranded or solid)
B. Size (diameter)
B
A metal chimney cap function does not include:
A. Keeping animals out
B. Reducing draw of exhaust gases
A
Spacing of collar ties should be:
A. Collar ties are spaced every 4 feet
B. Collar ties are spaced every 6 feet
A
All of the following types of pipe may be used in homes for gas except:
A. CPVC
B. Copper
C. Galvanized steel pipe
D. Black pipe
B
What is counter flashing?
A. A bottom layer of flashing covered by step flashing
B. A second layer of flashing that covers a bottom layer of flashings
C
If the exterior service piping has been converted to plastic, what is required for electrical grounding?
A. Leave as is
B. Ground to interior water pipe
C. Provide another grounding means
D. Ground to gas pipe
B
Blisters and bubbles on a built-up roof usually indicate:
A. Chimney flashing problems
B. That there is moisture trapped between the plies of felt
C. That the gravel needs to be replaced
B
How can you determine if a home is on sinking soil or on unsteady soil?
A. You should make that conclusion from a standard home inspection
B. Only a geotechnical evaluation can make that kind of determination
A
Concrete block walls need to be:
A. 8" thick at 5' and 12" thick at 7'
B. 8" thick at 6' and 12" thick at 8"
A
An inspector pushes on brick siding. What is he looking for?
A. Missing masonry ties
B. Air space behind bricks
B
When you find the insulation on incoming electrical service cables frayed or chewed, your comments should be:
A. None. It belongs to the electric company and is not part of a home inspection
B. Call the electric company or licensed electrician
C. Replace the service entrance
True
In construction, a high-efficiency furnace in a closet must have outside combustion air.
True or False
B
What size service wire (minimum) would be required to provide a house with 60-amp service?
A. #6 Al
B. #6 Cu
A
What is the minimum distance of a single wall vent connector for a wood burning stove to combustion?
A. 18 inches
B. 6 inches
B
Which of the following would be the least hazardous for a staircase?
A. No handrail
B. 1/4" riser differential
C. Torn carpet
D. No switch for light
A
When a GFCI is installed on a two-wire non-grounded system, it provides?
A. Fault protection, but not grounding protection
B. No protection as there is no ground wire
B
Which of the following is not suited to a roof with a 2/12 pitch?
A. Asphalt shingles
B. Asbestos Cement shingles
A
What is the purpose of the accumulator in a heat pump?
A. Keep liquids out of the compressor
B. Reduce air flow in coil
C. Keep dirt out of the compressor
B
An air handler is in the attic. What is the minimum width of a walkway for access?
A. 48"
B. 24"
B
The devices used to provide ignition for oil and gas-fired systems are:
A. Blower, motor, fan and limit switches
B. Pilot/electronic ignition and sensing devices
A
Which areas of the house require ventilation?
A. Attic, bath, kitchen
B. Boiler room, basement, bedroom,,
C. Kitchen, garage, bath
D. Attic, garage, bath
D
You view a Type B vent in an attic. Insulation is falling in the open chase. What do you report?
A. Recommend a fire stop be installed
B. What you see
C. Recommend they remove insulation from chase
D. All the above
D
An engineered floor requires squash blocks:
A. At all bearings
B. Only if the span is greater than 16"
C. Only if the span is greater than 12"
D. As required by manufacturer
B
What is the purpose of an air gap on a dishwasher?
A. Keeps water from siphoning out of the dishwasher
B. Protect against the contamination of the water supply
C
What is the reason for gapped roof sheathing?
A. Drafts
B. Shrinkage
C. Expansion
D. Energy of efficiency
C
Ductwork should be ______ enough to handle the volume of air needed for correct A/C operation.
A. Small
B. Square
C. Large
D. Round
B
What function do lintels perform?
A. To support the sill plate on top of foundation wall
B. To transfer the load above an opening in a masonry structure
A
You have a crack in a basement wall. Which one needs to be reported as a problem?
A. 1/2 " wide crack
B. 1/4" wide crack
B
Which coat of stucco siding can be eliminated?
A. Rough base coat
B. None
C. Finish coat
D. Paint
D
How can you tell if moisture exists above a cathedral ceiling?
A. Probe with an awl
B. Not possible
C. Moisture around skylight
D. Mildew on walls
B
What would you not list as safety hazard upon examining a chimney?
A. Opening between brick and profile of flue
B. No damper
C. Cracked flue
D. Creosote and soot build-up
C
How might a rafter spread be noticed from the exterior of the home?
A. A hump in the ridge line
B. Waviness over the roof surface
C. Separation of the soffits from the wall
B
What is rated for 100 amp and is unsafe?
A. 200 amp panel with 100 amp main breaker
B. 100 amp panel with 200 amp main breaker
B
What can one do to minimize the risk of termite infestation?
A. Use standard household pesticides
B. Breaking earth-to-wood contact
C. Increase moisture content at foundation
D
Installing a screened chimney cap does all of the following, except:
A. Keep rain from entering the chimney
B. Keeps out birds and animals
C. Keeps out dirt and debris
D. Interrupts proper draft
A
The difference between a split bus-bar panel and a single bus-bar panel is:
A. A split bus-bar panel has more than one "main" disconnect
B. No difference
C. You need to add the breakers up
D. Breaker above split controls those above it
A
You have a 4-ply bitumen built-up roof. This consists of:
A. 4 layers of felt, 4 layers of bitumen
B. 2 layers of felt, 2 layers of bitumen
D
A single wall gas flue 2 inches from wood would be reported:
A. Monitor
B. Contact an expert
C. Correct
D. Safety hazard
D
You are inspecting a house where
the second-story balcony is observed and every cantilevered joist is
rotted halfway out from the wall.
A. Tell the client of the problem, and report as such
B. Say nothing
C. Contact the city building inspector and let them know of the problem
D. Tell all appropriate parties that there is a hazard, and no one should step out on it
B
Plaster cracks over a chimney breast are usually caused by:
A. Heat
B. Settlement of the chimney
C
What is the most common electrical flaw found residentially?
A. Lack of GFCI's
B. Use of Al wiring
C. Over fusing
D. Use of grounded receptacles
A
When inspecting a heat pump or
air conditioner, you find the inside coils condensation drain is
connected directly to, or is inside of a sanitary sewer line.
A. This is a health and safety concern and it needs to be corrected
B. It is neither right or wrong, you do not need to report anything
B
The following is beyond the basic home inspection:
A. Check function of all plumbing fixtures
B. Operate incoming water main valve
B
Which part of the A/C cycle removes heat from the refrigerant?
A. When it is compressed in the coil
B. When it goes through the condenser
A
For water to drain freely out of the house waste system, there must be adequate:
A. Venting
B. Pressure
C
A vertical hairline crack in a poured concrete basement wall:
A. Should not be reported
B. Should be looked at by an engineer
C. Most likely a shrinkage crack
D. Exists in all walls
A
In heavy snowfall areas, it is
good practice to mount the heat pump's outdoor unit on a/an ________ to
prevent snow from blocking the coil.
A. Elevated platform
B. Plastic platform
B
What conditions may result in inadequate lateral support?
A. Roof trusses will lift upwards
B. The walls will deflect inward
B
A wire is run 10 feet, from a lug before the main breaker to a junction box:
A. OK due to NEC exception rule
B. Not protected if main panel turned off
B
A lintel is used in which part of a wall system:
A. Retaining wall
B. Wall opening
C. Gypsum wall finish
A
There are cuts in the roof truss' bottom cords to make room for a drop-down stairs. What would you report?
A. Have engineer evaluate
B. Not structural
C. Tell owner to fix it
A
During the heating season, the outside coil will go into a defrost cycle every 90 minutes and last for:
A. 10 minutes
B. 20 minutes
A
Three wires to masthead, two wires to main panel; what is the voltage?
A. 120 volts
B. 240 volts
B
The inspection vapor barrier should face toward the heated side (living space) of the insulation because:
A. The insulation must 'breathe' the same air as the unconditioned space
B. Moisture could condense I the insulation if the vapor barrier faces the cold side
D
When wood siding is applied, what is the proper construction technique?
A. End butt joints close together
B. Use scarf joints at corners
C. Double nail under the laps
D. Nail above overlap, never through the undersiding
C
The exhaust vent of a gas dryer:
A. Can be vented to a chimney with a gas furnace if it is on the bottom
B. Vented to an 'L' type vent only
C. Must be vented to the outside
D. Vented to a 'B' type vent only
C
Moisture accumulates in poorly vented attics because:
A. Moisture is attracted to warmth
B. Moisture starts at the top of the house and descends
C. Warm air rises & condenses in the attic
A
A deck is attached to a house with several nails. What would you tell your client?
A. Have deck checked and repaired by an expert
B. Add more nails
B
Wood shakes/shingles are best maintained by:
A. Allowing them to age naturally
B. Applying a quality waterproof sealer periodically
C
Step cracks in a masonry wall at the top corner of a window angled up and away are caused by:
A. Settled header
B. Rusted hurricane ties
C. Rusted lintel
D. Poor window insulation
B
Metal roofs are best protected by:
A. Allowing them to age naturally
B. Properly maintaining with paint
C. Finished with brush-on-bitumen coating
B
What is a common reason for water overflowing a gutter?
A. Downspout too small for gutters
B. Gutter not large enough for the area of the roof covered
B
How are hurricane ties attached at the roof structure?
A. Outside edge of top plate
B. Inside edge of top plate to rafter
C. Stud to top plate
D. Joist to rafter
C
You see three service entry wires coming into a panel, what is the service?
A. 100 amp
B. 240/280 Volt
C. 120/240 Volt
D. 200 amp
B
A dirty filter can cause:
A. High compressions ratio and failure of evaporator
B. Reduced air flow and lower return air temperature
B
What functions does knee walls perform?
A. Support the purlins at the rafter ends
B. Support the roof rafters and prevent sagging
B
Flat roofs - what is the cause of blisters?
A. Loss of UV protection
B. Air & water trapped between layers
D
#10 wire on a 50 amp breaker for an A/C compressor:
A. Good idea
B. Ok because compressor protects it
C. Ok because it's 240v
D. Not allowed
A
Small horizontal cracks approximately every 3-feet in a stucco wall are:
A. Due to poor overlap of lath ends
B. Due to stress
C. Normal
D. Due to shrinkage
A
The most common installation problem with concrete walls:
A. Mixed with too much water
B. Not right sand mix
B
A greenish color on copper plumbing joints indicates
A. Water leak problems
B. Normal conditions
B
How would you report excessive granule loss and curling of a 5-year old asphalt shingle?
A. Needs more venting
B. Material defect
B
A GFCI located next to a sink is wired with 2 wires, no ground, and trips with the receptacle test button. This is:
A. Safety hazard
B. Acceptable
C
Wood shakes should be installed roughly:
A. Makes no difference
B. 2 inches apart
C. 1/2 inch apart
D. 1 inch apart
B
A deck is 4 feet off the ground and you note that the ledger board has four 16d nails in each bay:
A. Place another 2 x 10, nailed under the ledger board
B. Tell the buyer that proper bolts should be installed
D
Why would you install a pressure regulator?
A. You are near a fire main
B. You do not have enough water pressure in the house
C. You are controlling the amount of water coming into the house
D. The pressure in the home is too high
B
A house rests on an 8" concrete
block foundation 8' high. One wall is backfilled 6' high while the
opposite wall is exposed with a downhill slope in front. The backfilled
wall has a horizontal crack across its length. The cause may be anything
except:
A. Force of ground against wall
B. Weight of house on foundation
a
What is the heaviest roof material per sq. ft.?
a. Slate/concrete tile
b. Asphalt
c. Fiberglass
d. Tar & gravel with ballast
d
What does water ponding cause?
a. Shorten life expectancy
b. Promotes fungi & moss growth
c. Allows seepage
d. All of the above
d
Type(s) of insulation used with a flat roof
a. Urethane
b. Fiberglass
c. Polystyrene
d. All of the above
b
Where is roof most likely to leak when re-roofing?
a. Edge
b. Penetrations
c. Valleys
d. Gable ends
B
What does a drip edge do?
a. Stops ice damming
b. Protects the parts below it like the fascia, siding, etc.
c. Protects the ridge vents
d. Prevents cupping of shingles
a
Skylight curbing must extend above the roof a minimum of?
a. 4-inches
b. 6-inches
c. 2-inches
d. 8-inches
c
What should you do if you come across a snow covered roof?
a. Remove the snow and inspect as usual
b. Note the snow and inspect as usual
c. Note the snow and lack of visibility and access
d. Say nothing and inspect as usual
b
A copper-to-steel connection undergoes a/an?
a. Chemical reaction
b. Electrolytic reaction
c. Nuclear reaction
d. Thermal reaction
d
What causes water hammer?
a. Loose pipes
b. Instantaneously closing valves
c. Hydrostatic shock
d. All of the above
a
Name three common locations of cross connections in a plumbing system.
a. Bidet, garden hose, and boiler connection
b. Toilet, sink, and bidet
c. Garden hose, laundry tubs, toilet
d. Boiler connection, toilet, and lawn sprinklers
a
Name two locations to install a check valve in a house with combination sewers to reduce
the risk of backup into the basement.
a. Floor drains and main drain line
b. Basement sink and toilets
c. Hose bibs and pool self-fill mechanisms
d. None of the above
a
The recommended slope for waste plumbing is typically?
a. ยผ inch per foot
b. ยฝ inch per foot
c. ยพ inch per foot
d. 1 inch per foot
b
Describe the function of a trap primer.
a. To remove water to prevent overflowing of floor drain
b. To add water to the trap to replace water lost through evaporation
c. To increase the amount of water consumed in the trap
d. To allow siphoning of the trap
d
The most common clue to a venting problem is?
a. Sewer odor
b. Gurgling drains
c. Slow drains
d. All of the above
c
What is a wet vent?
a. A vent that protects the roof in the rain
b. A vent that is never dry
c. A vent that also serves as drain
d. A vent that is larger that a dry vent
b
How much water does a modern residential toilet discharge into the waste system?
a. 1.6 lpf
b. 1.6 gpf
c. 2.5 gpf
d. 3.5 gpf
d
Copper & galvanized steel can be joined by what method?
a. Brass converter fitting
b. Di-electric union
c. Dimorphic union
d. Both a and b
b
The size of the fuses or breakers at the main disconnect will always tell you how much
electricity is available to the house?
a. True
b. False
d
How are electrical systems grounded on rural properties where the well supply piping
into the house is plastic?
a. Ground rods
b. UFER grounds
c. Metal well casing
d. Both a and c
b
Breakers are safer than fuses. Any house with fuses should be upgraded to breakers.
a. True
b. False
d
What is/are the most common reason for replacement of knob-and-tube wiring?
a. Breakdown of cloth covering (insulation)
b. Buried in thermal insulation
c. Homeowner splices and repairs
d. All of the above
e
Where are GFCI's required in er houses?
a. Kitchen counters
b. Bathrooms
c. Unfinished basements
d. Outdoors
e. All of the above
b
In most cases, three distribution wires connected to one fuse or breaker is acceptable.
a. True
b. False
d
A non-grounded receptacle within 6" of water should be replaced with?
a. GFCI
b. GFCI upstream from receptacle
c. Single pole GFCI Breaker
d. All of the above
d
Non-metallic sheathed cable in an attic on top of joist must be?
a. Protected within 6-feet of scuttle
b. Must be fastened every 4 ยฝ feet
c. Not allowed
d. Both a and b
d
Clothes closet - bulb ok or not ok - construction?
a. Surface-mounted or recessed incandescent fixtures with completely enclosed
lamps
b. Surface-mounted or recessed fluorescent fixtures.
c. Surface-mounted incandescent fixtures can be mounted on ceiling with 12"
clearance.
d. All of the above
e
Sub panel requirements.
a. Neutral and ground must be separated
b. Can be grounded together
c. Must be bonded
d. Must be isolated
e. a, c, and d
b
A fused neutral (neutral wire runs to a fuse) is?
a. Ok
b. Unsafe
c. Grand-fathered
d. None of the above
b
Does a sump pump require a GFCI?
a. Yes, if it is a dedicated receptacle
b. No, if it is a dedicated receptacle
d
What is the minimum required clearance in front of the main electrical panel box?
a. 12" wide x 24" front
b. 24" wide x 30" front
c. 26" wide x 36" front
d. 30" wide x 36" front
b
AC cable, commonly known as BX, often contains a bare aluminum wire. Which of the
following statements is true regarding the wire?
a. The wire is a grounding wire and should be connected to grounding terminals
inside boxes and panels.
b. The wire is a bonding wire and should not be connected or brought into the
interior of boxes.
c. The wire is required to be treated with anti-oxidant paste at its terminations
d. The wire must be reported as an aluminum branch circuit wire even if the other
conductors in the cable are copper
d
What are the three ways a structure may give in to gravity?
a. If it is sitting on something that is not strong enough, the ground below will fail
b. If the skeleton of the structure is weak, it will not support itself, the weight of the
structure itself is the 'dead load'
c. If the live load on the structure is greater than expected, it will collapse.
d. All of the above
d
The two basic forces that individual structural components are subjected to are?
a. Compression - pushed from both ends
b. Tension - pulled upon
c. Torque - twisted upon
d. Both a and b
a
What are the two common footing problems with piers?
a. Inadequate footing and pier base not below the frost line
b. Oversized footing and pier bases
c. Oversized pier bases and undersized footings
d. Piers and footings made of wood
d
What limits the inspection of crawl spaces?
a. Entry size
b. Lack of lighting
c. Cramped work space
d. All of the above
c
What two functions do bridging and bracing perform?
a. Prevent racking of the house during windstorms
b. Provides additional support for trusses and rafters
c. Restrain the joists from twisting and to transmit loads from one joist to the next
d. Acts as a shim for beams and girders
d
What materials were/are commonly used in sub flooring?
a. One inch wood boards
b. Plywood
c. Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
d. a, b, and c
d
What purpose do weep holes serve?
a. To allow the rain water to drain out of the 1" air space
b. Balance the pressure on both sides of the brick
c. To hold the veneer to the framing
d. Both a and b
b
What is the difference between post-and-beam construction and conventional
wood-frame construction?
a. Conventional construction only uses only 2x4's
b. Post and beam construction uses a few large members for support where
conventional construction uses many smaller members
c. Conventional construction is only used in the northern part of the country
d. Post and beam construction is limited to barns and commercial buildings
a
Steel lintels on masonry walls should be at least how many inches wider than the opening
on either side.
a. 6-inches
b. 8-inches
c. 10-inches
d. 4-inches
b
Where should collar ties be attached to the rafters:
a. Nearer the top
b. Nearer the middle
c. Nearer the bottom
d. Nearer the end
d
What concern, other than structural, arises with a misaligned-aligned chimney?
a. Heat get near combustible materials
b. Smoke and CO can re-enter the house
c. Creosote can collect in the attic
d. All of the above
b
What is the best way for steel girders (I-beams) in basement concrete wall pockets to be
installed?
a. Lay on tar paper
b. 1/2" gap on three sides
c. Lay on poly sheeting
d. Lay on wood shims
a
CDX is what type material?
a. Exterior grade plywood
b. Interior grade plywood
c. Paint grade plywood
d. Oriented strand board
b
A standard air conditioning system can easily be converted to a heat pump by the
addition of a few key components.
a. True
b. False
b
An accumulator prevents what from entering the compressor?
a. Water
b. Liquid refrigerant
c. Oil
d. Gaseous refrigerant
a
In a heat pump during the cooling cycle, which coil acts as the evaporator? In the heating
cycle, which coil acts as the evaporator?
a. Indoor/Outdoor
b. Outdoor/Indoor
c. Indoor/Indoor
d. Outdoor/Outdoor
c
The __________________ _______________ directs hot refrigerant to the indoor coil
in the __________________ cycle in a heat pump.
a. Multi-cycle valve - heating
b. Reversing valve - cooling
c. Reversing valve - heating
d. 4-way valve - cooling
b
Under certain operating conditions, ________________ will form on the outdoor coil.
This can cause a/an _____________________ in efficiency.
a. Moss - increase
b. Frost - decrease
c. Frost - increase
d. Mold - decrease
b
The defrost cycle is initiated by _________________ and __________________.
a. Homeowner and temperature
b. Time and temperature
c. Time and humidity
d. Temperature and humidity
a
Why are heat pumps labeled not to be operated unless power is on for a minimum of
12-hours?
a. Oil in compressor needs to be heated to remove liquid refrigerant
b. Oil in compressor needs to be heated to remove water
c. Oil in compressor needs to be heated for proper lubrication
d. Oil is only added for cold weather operation
c
An induced draft fan pulls air in what direction?
a. Up
b. Down
c. Pulls through the furnace
d. Pushes through the furnace
d
What is the purpose of a drip leg on a gas line?
a. Traps sediment and metal chips.
b. Traps sulfur
c. Traps water
d. Both a and c
a
What does an A/C compressor do?
a. Pressurizes the refrigerant gas in order to raise its temperature
b. Removes moisture from the system
c. Depressurizes the refrigerant gas in order to reduce its temperature
d. Compresses refrigerant gas for evaporation
a
A heat pump system is primarily sized for the?
a. Cooling load
b. Heating load
c. Need to dehumidify
d. Ambient conditions during operation
b
The variation in temperature between the supply air and the return air in an A/C system
should be approximately?
a. 10-14ยฐ
b. 14-22ยฐ
c. 21-24ยฐ
d. 25-35ยฐ
b
Each plumbing vent pipe or stack shall extend through its flashing and shall terminate
vertically not less than:
a. 12" above the roof line
b. 6" above the roof line
c. No requirement
d. 6' above the roof line
d
Double tapping a circuit breaker is allowed when:
a. Never
b. In 15 amp circuits only
c. Panel space is limited
d. Breaker is designed for double tapping
e. Protected by a fuse
b
A plug fuse rated at 30 amps is color coded:
a. Blue
b. Green, not all color coded any longer
c. Red
d. Black
b
In a hydronic boiler system, the normal operating pressure is:
a. 30-40 psi
b. 12-15 psi
c. 3-5 psi
d. 22-25 psi
c
The 'Hartford Loop' in a steam system:
a. Automatically maintains the water pressure
b. Is an equalizer that insures that pressures are equal above and below the water
line
c. Precludes siphon action if the unit develops a leak
d. All of the above
d
The combustion chamber in a gun style burner should be observed for:
a. Condition of the firebrick
b. Condition of the metal shields
c. Burn through or warping at the rear of the unit
d. All of the above
D
In most heat pumps, the 'auxiliary heat':
A. Augments the normal operation of the unit in extremely cold weather
B. Is often called supplemental heat
C. Is sometimes called emergency heat
D. All the above
A
In a typical heat pump operating
in the heat mode, the temperature differential at the heat exchanger
(supply/return air) should be about:
A. 25-30 degrees
B. 5-7 degrees
C. 15 degrees
D. 20-22 degrees
d
The discharge pipe extending from a water heater pressure relief valve:
a. Must be the same diameter as the valve
b. Must discharge within 6" of the floor
c. Must be galvanized, copper, or CPVC
d. All of the above
a
When plaster cracks appear over gypsum lath either 2 or 4 feet apart, this is normally:
a. Not serious
b. The last sign before the wall or ceilings fall
c. Unusually heavy storage in attics or 2nd floors
d. A sign of poor workmanship
e
Defects most likely found in drywall can normally be associated with:
a. Moisture
b. Too few nails
c. Improper framing or use of damp wood
d. Poor installation
e. all of the above
d
The three purposes of a window are:
a. Light, ventilation and appearance
b. Ventilation, light and emergency entrance
c. Light, ventilation and scenery from the outside
d. Light, ventilation and exit
a
When installing insulation in rafters, the minimum gap between the sheathing and
insulation is:
a. 1"
b. 2.5"
c. 1.5"
d. 2"
e. No minimum gap required
c
Decks should be checked for:
a. Adequate support
b. Means of attachment to house
c. Condition of floor planking
d. Protective railings
e. All of the above
d
A person, not your client, is looking for a starter home. He would like you to tell him if a
home was not purchased because of a bad inspection report. You should tell him:
a. Ok, if you inspect home for a fee
b. Will ask Seller if it's ok
c. Cannot do it
d. The contents of an inspection report are confidential
c
What parts are located inside and outside of an A/C system?
a. Inside: reversing valve and Outside: reversing valve
b. Inside: compressor and Outside: evaporator coil
c. Inside: evaporator coil and Outside: condenser/compressor
d. Inside: condenser/compressor and Outside: evaporator coil
c
To whom can you give your report:
a. Client and Realtor
b. Client and his attorney
c. Client and whomever he says is ok
d. Broker
b
No trap in a basement drain. You should tell client:
a. Say it's ok because it's in the basement
b. Recommend it be repaired
c. Say germs will grow
d. It's ok because that is the way it was built
a
In an old house, an atmospheric (open) tank is above 2nd floor. What was it probably
there for?
a. Over flow for gravity boiler
b. Well pressure control
c. Water heater pressure control
d. None of the above
d
What do you tell a client when a house has a 30 year old asbestos cement roof that is in
marginal condition?
a. Roof will need replacing within 5 years
b. Tear-off will be costly
c. Unlikely to find replacement shingles if damaged
d. All of the above
d
You notice isolators on the ductwork during an inspection. What are they for:
a. To reduce transmission of vibration from motor
b. To reduce noise in ductwork
c. Allow for expansion
d. All of the above
b
Three-prong receptacles require:
a. GFCI
b. Grounding conductor
c. Ground wire to a water pipe
d. Illegal
d
What is the proper way to flash around the chimney for a tile roof:
a. Counter and strip flashing
b. Plastic flashing
c. Caulk
d. Counter and pan flashing
a
What determines the size of a fireplace flue:
a. Opening of fireplace
b. Area of firebox
c. Number of fireplaces vented into flue
d. Type of house
c
Flat roof is used as a deck. Plumbing vent must extend:
a. 1 foot
b. 4 feet
c. 7 feet
d. 8 feet
c
In a steam heating system, a normal operating pressure is:
a. 30 psi
b. 12-20 psi
c. 3-5 psi
d. 22-25 psi
b
You are inspecting a home built in 1950 and see a silver wire to a branch circuit.
This would be:
a. Aluminum
b. Tin-coated copper
c. Copper
d. Copper-coated aluminum
b
In an older home, a forced hot air furnace is replaced by a heat pump. The heat coming
out of the register is:
a. Hotter
b. Cooler
c. Same
d. Depends on the air duct layout
c
What is the most serious safety hazard with an exterior door:
a. Door knob set at 3' 6"
b. A foot quick release, security bracket
c. Double cylinder dead bolt (keyed inside and outside)
d
On the interior door leading to the attached garage, the door:
a. Must swing into the garage
b. Must have self-closing hinges
c. Must have metal on the garage side
d. Must be 1 3/8" thick wood, metal, or fire-rated
b
A house is built on a sloping hill. The surface water should be drained
a. Directly into the sump pump
b. Into a 4-inch perforated plastic drain line and directed downhill to daylight
c. Into a gravel filled container (inside the basement)
d. Drained laterally.
d
A flat roof with a two-foot surrounding parapet wall, what must be provided to allow
drainage:
a. Gutters
b. Scuppers
c. Roof drain with secondary overflow drain
d. Either b or c above
b
You are inspecting a flat roof with a rock ballast finish. You see an A/C platform sitting
on two 4"x4" SPF boards:
a. Say nothing.
b. Tell buyer that the 4x4's should be replaced with pressure treated wood.
c. Inform the client that this arrangement may damage the roof system.
b
What is efflorescence?
a. Concrete mixture with too much fluoride
b. The remaining dissolved salts stuck to the concrete as a result of water
penetration
c. The material used inside of a fluorescent bulb to help conduct electricity
b
You inspect a home with a wood stove 18" from the wall. You notice that the unit does
not have a UL approved sticker. You should tell the client:
a. The stove has to go
b. The stove is too close to the wall
c. Do not buy the house
d. Everything is okay
a
Which of the following is the least safe for the occupants:
a. Dead bolts with a keyed interior arrangement
b. A garage without a safety reverse
c. A loose handrail
d. No safety glass
d
OSB:
a. Will deteriorate from rain if left exposed on the job site
b. Can be used for flooring
c. Is structurally sound
d. All of the above
b
If you have a gas furnace and a gas water heater in the basement and a gas furnace in the
attic, how many flues to you need for proper venting:
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
c
If the furnace blower stops running after the burners have shut off and then the blower
turns back on without the burners on - what is the most likely situation:
a. Bad thermocouple
b. Bad gas valve
c. Fan/Limit control switch does not operate properly
d. Fan/motor does not work properly
a
What is the typical clearance to combustibles for venting of a wall furnace?
a. 1"
b. 2"
c. 4"
d. 6"
d
The clearance from a wall furnace to the ceiling is:
a. 8"
b. 12"
c. 16"
d. Per manufacturer's instructions
a
Where is the draft hood for a wall-mounted furnace located:
a. The front of the furnace - top front
b. Combustion side of the furnace
c. Enclosed in the wall
c
At what point in an A/C cycle does the gas turn to a liquid:
a. Coming out of evaporator coil
b. Coming out of the compressor
c. Coming out of the condensing coil
d. After the expansion device
c
At what point in an A/C cycle does the liquid turn to gas:
a. Passing through the expansion coil
b. Coming out of the compressor
c. Coming out of the evaporator coil
d. Coming out of the condensing coil
a
Vertical load on top of this truss has the following effect on foundation walls:
a. Vertical pressure only
b. Vertical and horizontal pressure
c. Horizontal pressure only
6
Underground metallic gas piping should be installed a minimum of ___ inches below grade.
- 12
- 18
- 6
- 24
b
According to the SOP, when inspecting a plumbing system, an inspector is required to:
A. Inspect sewer clean-outs
B. Inspect the visible vent pipe terminations to the exterior
a
The passage way to appliances in an attic must be at least ___ inches wide and floored.
a. 24
b. 18
c. 30
d. 22
b
All outdoor receptacles below how many feet, how many inches are required to be GFCI protected?
a. 5-6
b. 6-6
c. 4-6
d. All are required to be protected
d
The maximum clearance between grade and the bottom of a swimming pool fence is:
A. 3 inches
B. 4 inches
C. 1 inch
D. 2 inches
10
According to the rules of the Texas Real Estate Commission, each TREC licensee shall furnish a permanent address to the commission and report all subsequent changes within ____ business days after a change of address.
A
Per the rules of TREC, which plumbing system item needs to be inspected during an inspection?
A. Termination of a vent through the roof line
B. Drain pumps
d
If the person is licensed as a Real Estate Inspector or as an Apprentice Inspector, any advertisement must contain:
a. The person's license number
b. The name of the person's sponsoring Professional Inspector
c. A statement indicating that the person is sponsored by a Professional Inspector
d. All of the answers
a
The National Energy Act of
January 1, 1994 requires all commodes manufactured for residential use
to have a capacity of no more than ____ gallons per flush.
a. 1.6
b. 1.2
c. 1.4
d. 1.8
a
While inspecting a pre-1955
residential one story home, an inspector notes a bare incandescent light
bulb mounted on the veiling in the middle of a habitable room. What
comment should be written in the inspection report?
a. It is not a safety violation, but repair is recommended
b. Note a safety violation that is should be replaced at the homeowners convenience
c. It is a safety issue and in need of repair
a
Loose connections in aluminum wiring systems cause arcing and short circuits, which in turn cause:
a. Fires
b. Low voltage
c. Anti-oxidation
d. High voltage
b
Overhead service drop conductors shall have a minimum clearance from final grade over residential property of:
a. 10 feet
b. 12 feet
c. 14 feet
d. 16 feet
c
Overhead service-drop conductors shall have a vertical clearance above the roof of not less than:
a. 10 feet
b. 6 feet
c. 8 feet
d. 4 feet
c
An inspector can check a GFCI or standard electrical outlet with a(n):
A. Multimeter
B. Amprobe
C. GFCI Tester
D. Surge Protector
d
During an inspection of a brick
veneer residence, an inspector notes step cracks that follow the mortar
joints. If the step cracks are wider at the bottom of the wall, this is
an indication that:
a. Rotation of the footing is occurring
b. Settlement of the soil is occurring
c. Excessive moisture is behind the wall
d. Spalling is occurring
d
In a pier and beam house, the beam ends must bear:
a. 8 inches
b. 2 inches
c. 6 inches
d. 4 inches
B
An inspector notes that the
electrical wiring system is a 2 wire system and that all of the outlets
in the house are 2 prong. What comment should the inspector make?
A. Electrical system is unsafe and should be replaced with a 3 wire system.
B. Electrical system is satisfactory but not as safe as with a 3 wire system.
b
Which room in a house often has receptacle outlets on multiple circuits?
a. Garage
b. Kitchen
c. Bathroom
d. Living Room
d
A year ago an inspector inspected
two investment properties for a client. The client was unhappy with the
job the inspector did and is now suing the inspector. What is the
maximum amount that can be paid out from the real estate recovery fund?
a. $30,000
b. $7,500
c. $25,000
d. $12,500
c
In a pier and beam house, the drier vent must go:
a. Behind a wall
b. To the crawl space
c. Outside to the atmosphere
d. To the attic
6 feet
The maximum cord length for a 240v window A/C unit is:
- 4 feet
- 8 feet
- 10 feet
- 6 feet
d
A Professional Real Estate Inspector must have how many hours of continuing education each year?
a. 8
b. 12
c. 4
d. 16
a
according to the rules of the
Texas Real Estate Commission, a licensed inspector may, when providing a
written inspection report for a prospective buyer of a one family
residence:
a. Use only from REI 7A-0
b. Use a form other than form REI 7A-0
c. Change the sequence of the items listed on the form REI 7A-0
True
Each applicant must pay a set fee into the inspection recovery fund prior to being issued an inspector's license.
True or False
b
The minimum ceiling height in a habitable room is:
a. 7 feet 2 inches
b. 7 feet
c. 6 feet 10 inches
d. 6 feet 8 inches
d
An HVAC installation requires the following:
a. Insulating the supply duct
b. Insulating the return duct
c. Insulating supply and return ducts
d. Insulating ducts outside building envelope only
a
OSB is most commonly used as:
a. Roof sheathing
b. Inside wall sheathing
c. Underlayment for tile floors in bath area
d. Underlayment for linoleum floors
c
Why would you put your mirror under a water heater draft hood?
a. To look up the flue
b. To check for CO
c. To detect back drafting
d. To look at the sky
d
What size should TPR valve extension piping be?
a. 1/2"
b. 3/4"
c. Doesn't matter
d. Same size as the valve it's connected to
a
Spacing of collar ties should be?
a. Collar ties are spaced every 4'
b. Collar ties are spaced every 6'
c. Collar ties are spaced every 8'
d. Collar ties are spaced every 10'
a
Concrete block retaining wall with 3-inch deflection. What should you say?
a. Have structural engineer examine
b. Normal position
c. Up to 4-inches is ok
d. Replace wall with one
b
Why is there a drip loop?
a. To keep the wires close to the ground
b. To keep water from running down the mast head
c. To allow sediment to collect
d. To add architectural effect
a
What is the reasoning for gapped roof sheathing?
a. Expansion
b. Shrinkage
c. Drafts
d. Energy efficiency
b
What is the biggest hazard for a firebox:
a. Too much wood
b. Gap between frame & brick
c. Missing doors
d. Open damper
a
A downspout terminated 6" before the foundation - what should you say?
a. Recommend an extension
b. Recommend a splash block
c. Recommend a French drain
d. Recommend a gutter
b
What flashing is used where chimney and roof meet?
a. Modified Bitumen and Copper
b. Counter flashing and step flashing
c. Tar and gravel
d. Copper and Galvanized
c
What is the maximum distance of stairs before needing a landing?
a. 14 feet
b. 10 feet
c. 12 feet
d. 1 foot
d
During an inspection of an air conditioning system, an inspector is not required to:
a. Report as in need of repair condensing units fins which are bent.
b. Report as in need of repair a primary condensate drain pipe that lacks insulation.
c. Report as in need of repair a suction line that lacks insulation.
d. Program digital-type thermostats or controls.
b
Weep holes should be provided on masonry at a maximum spacing of?
a. 24 inches
b. 33 inches
c. 18 inches
d. 30 inches
c
Which is permissible?
a. Installing a surface mounted light in a shower
b. Installing a surface mounted light 7 feet above a bathtub
c. Installing a surface mounted light in a clothes closet
d. Installing a surface mounted high intensity light
a
The color of the ground wire in a 3 wire electrical system is _____?
a. Green
b. Black
c. Gray
d. White
c
In an air-conditioning system,
the purpose of the ________ is to remove heat from the refrigerant
passing through the copper tubing.
a. Evaporator
b. Flow valve
c. Condenser
d. Compressor
a
Wire insulation has different colors to indicate the use of the wire. A wire with white insulation is always a:
a. Neutral wire
b. Hot wire
c. Splice wire
d. Ground wire
b
An inspector notices that the
bottom of a truss is separating from the top of the center wall which
supports the truss. What is likely the cause?
a. Horizontal shearing
b. Cupping
c. Doming
d. Horizontal twisting
a
During an inspection, which item must be tested?
a. Bathroom exhaust fan
b. Self-cleaning feature of the broiler
c. A stand-alone portable dishwasher
d. Self-cleaning feature of an oven
d
The minimum acceptable waste stack size for resistance is:
a. Same size as the largest horizontal pipe
b. 3 inches plus 1.5 inches
c. 12 square inches
d. Based on the total discharge to the stack and the discharge within a branch interval
c
Polarity is achieved by which 2 wires of a 3 wire electrical systems?
a. Ground and hot
b. Neutral and ground
c. Neutral and hot
d. Bare and ground
a
Because of the high
expansion/contraction rate of aluminum, an electrical system using
aluminum wire that was installed properly can have problems later on due
to the movement of the wire, causing:
a. Loose connections
b. Crimped connections
c. Spliced connections
d. Insulated connections
D
A vent for a high efficiency furnace pitches:
A. Downward toward outside
B. Downward toward furnace
C. Upwards away from furnace
D. Both B and C above
True
In a construction, a high efficiency furnace in a closet must have outside combustion air.
True or False?
A
Which of the following conditions would be LEAST critical to your client's safety?
A. A pin hole in the heat exchanger
B. No handrails on an interior stairway
C. Lack of a pressure and temperature relief valve on the water heater
D. A non-reversing garage door opener
D
It is important to maintain a positive grade away from the structure of at LEAST _______ inch drop per foot for six feet.
A. 1/4
B. 1/2
C. 3/4
D. 1
C
Standard three light electrical testers are NOT always reliable because:
A. Some receptacles only have two prongs
B. Three light testers sometimes have broken bulbs
C. Three light testers will not detect multiple wiring problems
D. Different test device manufactures have different light patterns
A
Tonnage can be determined by dividing FLA by 6-7?
A. Not anymore with the high efficiency a/c units. The math doesn't work anymore. Try it on a 13 or 14 SEER unit.
B. Yes.
D
Bulging plaster is observed high up on several bedroom walls. The primary concern is the bulging plaster is a(n):
A. installation defect
B. indication the home was very cold for a period of time
C. indication the air handler leaked
D. potential safety issue
A
Every basement and sleeping room is required to have an easily operable emergency escape window. How large must this window be?
a. At least 5.7 sq. ft
b. At least 4.7 sq. ft
c. At least 6.7 sq. ft
d. At least 3.7 sq. ft
B
Branch circuits must be installed in several locations in every building. Which of the following is not one of them?
a. Central HVAC equipment
b. An office or bedroom
c. The laundry room
d. Bathrooms
A
The International Residential
Code (IRC) requires rafters to be fastened to ridge boards or gusset
plates if the pitch of the roof is greater than or equal to a certain
angle. What is the angle?
a. 3/12
b. 2/12
c. 4/12
d. 5/12
B
How large should the footing or foundation for a masonry fireplace be?
a. It should be more than six inches thick and extend six inches beyond the fireplace on all sides.
b. It should be more than 12 inches thick and extend six inches beyond the fireplace on all sides.
c. It should be more than six inches thick and extend 12 inches beyond the fireplace on all sides.
d. It should be more than 12 inches thick and extend 12 inches beyond the fireplace on all sides.
D
How much glazing area should every habitable room in a residential dwelling contain?
a. โฅ8% of floor area
b. โฅ6% of floor area
c. โฅ10% of floor area
d. โฅ7% of floor area
A
What is the proper slope for a horizontal drain pipe?
a. Anywhere from 1/8:1 to 1/2:1
b. โฅ1/8:1
c. โค1/2:1
d. None of the above
B
How far above a showerhead should the waterproof material in a bathroom extend?
a. โฅ 2"
b. โฅ 3"
c. โฅ 4"
d. โฅ 5"
True
An on-site water quality test is generally done only on structures that are on a non-municipal water supply.
True
False
D
Federal and state regulations
both require certain warnings to be conspicuous. As a home inspector,
you will often have to determine whether or not hazardous components are
adequately labeled. Which of the following would a reasonable person
consider to be conspicuous?
a. UNPLUG POWER BEFORE TOUCHING CIRCUIT (with graphic warning symbols)
b. UNPLUG POWER BEFORE TOUCHING CIRCUIT (without graphic warning symbols)
c. Unplug power BEFORE touching circuit
d. Both A and B
C
The International Residential
Code requires cleanouts for drain pipes to be established at intervals
throughout the drain system. What is the maximum allowable distance
between cleanouts?
a. 50 feet horizontally
b. 75 feet horizontally
c. 100 feet horizontally
d. 125 feet horizontally
a
How far above grade should a concrete slab extend?
a. At least 4"
b. At least 6"
c. At least 8"
d. There is no minimum requirement
B
Retaining wall -8" block with 3" displacement:
A. Say nothing, not part of inspection
B. Recommend repair
C. Only required to do RR tie walls
D. Up to 4-inch displacement OK
Flat roof
You will most likely see ponding around drain because of inadequate or clogged drain system on what kind of roof?
C
What roof material doesn't require an underpayment?
A. Asphalt shingles
B. Slate
C. Wood shingles
D. Wood shakes
B
Girders and joist must overlap ___ on concrete and ___ on wood or steel.
A. 1 1/2" and 3"
B. 3" and 1 1/2"
A
When firing up a steam system that had been turned off all summer, you hear a hissing sound:
A. This is normal
B. This cause for alarm
C. Shut it off immediately
D. Add more water
B
The most common problem with a deck ledger board is:
A. Supported by studs
B. Improper flashing
C. Rotten boards
D. Siding damaged
B
If a child is sleeping in a room that you need to inspect:
A. Skip the room
B. Ask the seller if you can inspect the room
A
There is a gas furnace in the basement and you notice your glasses are fogging up:
A. Caused by improper appliance ventilation
B. Caused by a broken humidifier
A
What does UF stand for?
A. Underground Feeder
B. Underground Flushing
C. Ultra-Light Foundation
C
What is the purpose of the neutral wire?
A. It acts as the equipment ground
B. It is just another wire
C. It completes the circuit
D. It can be white or green
A
What two things do collar ties do:
A. Stabilize the roof and distribute the load
B. Bridge the shingles and flashing
C. Support the ceiling joists and headers
D. Replace the sheathing and decking
D
What kind of roof covering cannot be installed over space boards?
A. Asphalt shingles
B. BUR
C. Spray-applied foam
D. All the above
A
Where is a smoke detector not required?
A. Garage
B. Bedroom
C. Finished basement
D. Bedroom hall
A
What is the required duct size for a dryer vent?
A. 4 inches
B. 5 inches
C. 6 inches
D. 3 inches
D
What adds to sheer strength of an interior ceiling?
A. Gypsum drywall
B. Gypsum plaster
C. Portland plaster
D. All the above
Trimmer
A single or double beam, joist, or rafter to which a header is nailed in framing for a chimney, stairway or other opening
I am a...?
a
Which areas of a house require ventilation:
a. Bath, kitchen, attic
b. Kitchen, garage, bath
c. Attic, garage, bathroom
d. Dining room, boiler room, basement
d
Bulging plaster is observed high up on several bedroom walls. The primary concern is the bulging plaster
is a(n):
A. installation defect
B. indication the home was very cold for a period of time
C. indication the air handler leaked
D. potential safety issue
c
Standard three light electrical testers are NOT always reliable because:
A. Some receptacles only have two prongs
B. Three light testers sometimes have broken bulbs
C. Three light testers will not detect multiple wiring problems
D. Different test device manufactures have different light patterns
A
Proper electrical wire height from road, driveway and yard:
A. 18in, 12in, 10in
B. 10in, 12in, 18in
A
Fireplace mantel should be a minimum of _____ from opening.
A. 12 inches
B. 16 inches
C. 24 inches
D. 10 inches
C
A flue covered with creosote:
A. Protects flue
B. Is dull black
C. Safety hazard
D. Common and not a problem
A
Mantle and ceiling have soot.
A. Fireplace is probably not drafting properly
B. Poor job of cleaning the flue
C. Oil fired furnace in house
D. Due to poor housekeeping
c
What is the minimum space between roof shingles and the siding from a dormer or
sidewall?
a. 1"
b. 1 ยฝ"
c. 2"
d. 3"
C
You have a crack in a basement wall. Which one needs to be reported as a problem?
A. Hairline vertical
B. Hairline horizontal
C. 1/2" wide crack
D. 1/4" wide crack
A
What is the purpose of an air gap on a dishwasher?
A. Protect against contamination of the water supply
B. Allows dishes to dry completely
C. Protects dishes from dirty sink water
D. Keeps water from siphoning out of dishwasher
D
Where can the evaporator coil on a heat pump unit be located?
A. Inside
B. Plenum
C. Outside
D. All the above
A
What is rated for 100 amp and is unsafe:
A. 100 amp panel with 200 amp main breaker
B. 200 amp panel with 100 amp main breaker
C. 100 amp wire with 100 amp panel
D. 200 amp panel with 100 amp wire
C
What is the proper way to vent a condensate drain?
A. Soil stack
B. Plumbing stack
C. Indirect drain
D. 1/4" copper tubing
C
What is the minimum distance of a single wall vent connector for a wood-burning stove to combustibles?
A. 6 inches
B. 12 inches
C. 18 inches
D. 12 inches
A
You turn off the GFCI in one bathroom and it kills the power to the receptacles in another bathroom. What do you report?
A. This is an acceptable practice
B. This is incorrect, need electrician
C. This is unsafe
D. There should be a GFCI with buttons in each bath
A
You look into the burner area of a water heater and see a twisted metal pierce sitting on the burner.
A. The baffle (turbulator) has rusted out and dropped
B. This is correct as the device is there to increase efficiency
C. It should not be twisted and is broken
D. There is no piece of twisted metal in a water heater
Bottom
The dip tube of a water heater brings the cold water to the Top or the Bottom of the tank?
B
You have a furnace, water heater and dryer in the same laundry room. What do you do first?
A. Write this up as a safety hazard
B. See if there is enough combustion air available
a
In most cases chimney deterioration is caused from:
a. Water/moisture caused by condensation
b. Wind
c. Improper height
d. Nesting animals
C
Given that you have a #6 AWG copper wire, 100 amp main breaker and a panel rated for 150 amps, what is the service amperage?
A. 100 and all is good
B. 150 and oversized panel
C. 60 and a safety hazard
D. 200 and all is good
d
A crack that increases along its path is called?
a. angled crack
b. vertical crack
c. horizontal crack
d. v-crack
B
Which of the following is not part of the structural inspection?
A. Foundation walls
B. Interior finish material
C. Roof framing member
D. Girders and floor joists
b
Which of the following is a sign of water penetration through a foundation wall?
a. Rotted girder or joist
b. Efflorescence on the wall
c. Water stains around the floor drain
d. Delamination of the sub floor
d
The ground immediately adjacent to the foundation should be:
a. Cemented, if possible
b. Sandy or clay type soil
c. Dry and have plenty of vegetation planted
d. Sloped away from the foundation at the rate of 1" per ft. for at least the first 6'
c
Three entrance cables providing service to a house indicates:
a. 120/volts
b. 100 amps
c. 120/240 volts
d. Three-phase service
c
Two basic forces individual structural components are subjected to are?
a. Wind/gravity
b. Snow/rain
c. Compression/tension
d. All of the above
c
The recommended minimum clearance between a floor joist and the dirt floor of a crawl
space without having to use treated lumber is:
a. 24"
b. makes no difference
c. 18"
d. 12"
a
What is a counter flashing?
a. A second layer of flashing that covers a bottom layer of flashings
b. A bottom layer of flashing covered by step flashing
c. The kind of flashing used at the rake end
d. A special ridge cover used with the roofs
D
What is a truss uplift?
A. Where the roof load pushes the rafters upward
B. Trusses at too wide a span
C. Trusses that have chords cut
D. A bowing upward of the truss's bottom chord
C
The two main components of an air-cooled air conditioning system are:
A. Fan and coil
B. Duct work and expansion valve
C. Evaporator unit and the condensing unit
D. Compressor and refrigerant
D
What is a small peaked roof construction on the high side of a chimney called?
A. Pitched pocket
B. Dormer
C. Parapet
D. Cricket
b
Which type of supply pipe will rust from the inside out?
a. Brass
b. Galvanized steel
c. Copper
d. Lead
c
A drain that gurgles or belches as it drains water may be a symptom of:
a. The presence of a mechanical vent
b. A leak in the trap
c. A missing vent
d. The presence of a drain trap
a
What condition with a gas water heater should be reported as a safety hazard:
a. Holes in a flue pipe
b. A leaking tank
c. Rusting in heating chamber
d. Plastic water supply pipes
C
What does hissing and gurgling in an electric water heater indicate?
A. The upper element is burnt out
B. The lower element is burnt out
C. There is sediment in the tank
D. The heating element wires are over-heated
C
Residential entrance cables must have a minimum clearance over a driveway of:
A. 10' 6"
B. 15'
C. 12'
D. 18'
c
In a hydronic system, the normal operating pressure is:
a. 30-40 psi
b. 3-5 psi
c. 12-15 psi
d. 22-25 psi
b
What is the purpose of an accumulator:
a. Keep dirt out of the compressor
b. Keep liquid refrigerant out of the compressor
c. Record a total of coolant used
d. Keep water out of the compressor
c
The most likely area to find a crack or hole in the heat exchanger is:
a. In the top of the heat exchanger
b. Along the rear seams
c. In front, behind the heat shield
d. Along the lower section where the flames are
True
The high side of the chimney, for
chimneys sitting below the ridge, may also have typical roof-to-wall
flashing. In this case, flashing should extend up at least 6" or 1/6 the
width of the chimney
True or False
B
What is drywall made of?
A. Compressed paper
B. Gypsum covered with paper
C. Kalsomine
D. Wood chips and fibers
B
What materials are used for making seamless joints in a drywall facing?
A. Gypsum and glue
B. Joint cement and tape
C. Nails and screws
D. Shellac and wax
A
While inspecting a tar and gravel roof, what would indicate that the roof is failing?
a. Delamination
b. Loose gravel
c. Ponding of water on a roof
d. Gravel has been washed to the down spouts.
A
The color of the ground wire in a 3 wire electrical system is _____
a. Green
b. Black
c. White
d. Gray
A
A junction box must be how high above a deck?
a. 4 inches
b. 6 inches
c. 8 inches
d. 12 inches
D
A clothes dryer vent line duct:
a. Can have a screen at the end of the duct
b. Can be secured with sheet metal screws
c. Can pass through a clean line
d. Can pass through a ventilation duct
A
7 feet is the minimum unobstructed head room height in:
a. A hallway
b. An attic
c. A crawl space
d. An unfinished basement
C
When inspecting stairways, porches and decks, all must have:
a. Lighting (illumination)
b. Be at least 6 feet 8 inches wide
c. Be at least 3 feet wide
d. Be strong enough to support 200psi
D
During an inspection, an
inspector finds clothes in a closet touching a circuit panel. What
comments should an inspector write on his report?
a. No comment required
b. No comment required if house was built prior to 1955
c. No comment required if house was built prior to 1969
d. Report as in need of repair
D
During an inspection, an
inspector finds clothes in a closet touching a circuit panel. What
comments should an inspector write on his report?
a. No comment required
b. No comment required if house was built prior to 1955
c. No comment required if house was built prior to 1969
d. Report as in need of repair
A
Where the service drop crosses
over a roof with a slope of 4/12 or more, the minimum clearance above
the roof cannot be less than:
a. 3 feet
b. 4 feet
c. 6 feet
d. 8 feet
C
Aluminum wire has approximately a _____ percent higher expansion/contraction rate than copper wire.
a. 10
b. 20
c. 30
d. 40
A
Because of the high
expansion/contraction rate of aluminum, an electrical system using
aluminum wire that was installed properly can have problems later on due
to the movement of the wire, causing:
a. Loose connections
b. Crimped connections
c. Spliced connections
d. Insulated connections
D
Loose connections in aluminum wiring systems cause arcing and short circuits, which in turn cause:
a. Low voltage
b. High voltage
c. Anti-oxidation
d. Fires
C
On a polarized 3 wire receptacle,
the hot conductor is connected to the _____ screw and the neutral
conductor is connected to the _____ screw.
a. Silver / Green
b. Chrome / White
c. Brass / Silver
d. Brass / Green
A
In an air-conditioning system,
the purpose of the _____ is to remove heat from the refrigerant passing
through the copper tubing.
a. Condenser
b. Evaporator
c. Compressor
d. Flow valve
D
All swimming pools, spas, and hot
tubs must be enclosed with a fence, building wall, or a wall that
completely surrounds and obstructs access to the swimming pool. The top
of the obstruction, whether a fence or a wall, must be a minimum of
_____ inches above grade.
a. 36
b. 40
c. 44
d. 48
D
Texas official wood destroying insect reports can be prepared by:
a. Texas Real Estate Commission profession inspector
b. Texas Real Estate Committee licensed real estate inspectors
c. Texas structural Pest Control Board professional inspectors
d. Texas structural Pest Control Board Certified Applicators
d
A gas fired water heater cannot be located in a:
a. Garage
b. Attic
c. Hallway
d. Bathroom or bedroom
D
Piping installed deeper than and parallel to footings or bearing walls shall be _____ degrees.
a. 15
b. 20
c. 30
d. 45
D
The T & P relief line cannot:
a. Be trapped
b. Be reduced in size
c. Be threaded on one end d. All of the above
C
Vent stacks connected in any
combination to a common vent shall be at least _____ inches above the
flood-level rim of the highest fixture.
a. 2
b. 4
c. 6
d. 8
D
The minimum headroom for working spaces for service equipment and panel boards shall be _____ feet.
a. 3 ยฝ
b. 4 ยฝ
c. 5 ยฝ
d. 6 ยฝ
B
During an inspection of a brick
veneer residence, an inspector notes step cracks that follow the mortar
joints. If the step cracks are wider at the top of the wall, this in an
indication that:
a. Excessive moisture is behind thewall
b. Settlement of the soil is occurring
c. Spalling is occurring
d. Rotation of the footings is occurring
6 feet or 900 square feet
How many feet of tile must you have on shower walls?
__ ____ or ______ _______ ______
21 inches front and 12 inches side
How much clearance is front and to the side of a toilet must there be (measured from the center)?
____ ______ front and ____ ______ side
2 inches and 4 inches
___ ______ is the minimum and ___ ______ is the maximum water depth to seal P traps
16 front and 12 side
How many inches of hearth extension must you have for a fireplace with less than 6 square feet?
20 front and 12 side
How many inches of hearth extension for a fireplace greater than 6 square feet?
16 front and 12 side
How many inches of hearth extension must you have for a fireplace with less than 6 square feet?
20 front and 12 side
How many inches of hearth extension for a fireplace greater than 6 square feet?
B
How many hours of continuing education are required to re a license for a Real Estate Inspector (REI)?
a. 2
b. 4
c. 6
d. 8
D
How many hours of continuing education are required to re a license for a Professional Real Estate Inspector license (PRO)?
a. 32
b. 4
c. 18
d. 8
D
Before a licensed professional
inspector may sponsor an apprentice inspector or a real estate
inspector, he or she must provide proof to the commission that he or she
has completed not less than real estate inspections while licensed as a
professional inspector under this act
a. 50
b. 75
c. 100
d. 200
C
A licensee under this section
shall notify the commission and pay the required fee within days after
the date of change of place of business occurs.
a. 10
b. 15
c. 30
d. 60
A
An inspector may not act in the dual capacity of inspector and undisclosed principle in a transition.
a. True
b. False
B
An inspector is eligible to
receive a license after making arrangements with the commission to
repay in a timely manner, any and all amounts paid from the real estate
inspection recovery fund on the person's account.
a. True
b. False
A
An inspector licensed under this
section must notify consumers and service recipients of the availability
of the real estate inspection recover fund.
a. True
b. False
A
If a person is licensed as a
professional inspector, real estate inspector, or apprentice inspector,
any advertisements must contain the license number of the person.
a. True
b. False
D
If the person is license as a real estate inspector or as an apprentice inspector, any advertisements must contain:
a. The name of the person's sponsoring professional inspector
b. A statement indicating that the person is sponsored by a professional inspector
c. The person's license number
d. All of the above
20 x 24 - 5.7 square feet
Minimum dimensions of a window in a sleeping room are ______ or _______ to equal ______
Answer: 20 x 24 - 5.7 square feet
50 cfm - 5% - 1.5 square feet
A bathroom must have either an _____ cfm exhaust fan or a _______% operable window with a minimum of ______ square feet.
Answer: 50 cfm - 5% - 1.5 square feet
25
The service outlet in the attic shall be accessible on the same level and not more than ____ feet from the equipment.
8
A swimming pool junction panel must be at least _____ inches above the water level of the pool.
Movement
_____ occurs when expansive clay soil dry & shrink at the foundation perimeter causing the foundation to settle.
Heat Pump
In a _____ system, the purpose of the condenser is to remove the heat from the refrigerant passing through the copper tubing.
A/C
In a _____ system, the purpose of the evaporator is to absorb heat from the air before the air travels to a conditioned space.
Expansive
Step cracks in the mortar joints, if they are wider at the top of a brick wall, is an indication that _____ of the soil is occurring.
125% of nameplating rating
The minimum breaker size for a water heater is _____ amps.
Answer: 125% of nameplating rating
10
A minimum of _____ feet is required for a GFCI protected outlet or switch from a spa or hot tub.
35
Any fixture that weighs over _____ pounds shall be supported independently from the outlet box
2 and 4
Legal action can be taken up to _____ years after the incident; a complaint must be filed up to _____ years after the incident for payment out of the recovery fund.