Florida Home Inspector Exam
What is the main implication of a shrinkage crack?
May be leakage but not structural problems.
What is the most common problem with asbestos cement shingles?
Mechanical damage because the siding is brittle.
Definition of vents
Metal devices for getting exhaust gases from burning fuels out of the house safely
what should you see when looking up from the basement around a metal chimney of a wood burning fireplace
Metal fire stop spacer
What's the difference between a Spanish tile and Mission tile?
Mission tiles come in 2 pieces--pans and covers. Spanish tiles come in 1 piece and have interlocking sides.
What is the advantage of a 240 volt circuit?
More electricity can flow at lower amp ratings
Plastic piping expands ____________ than copper piping, and needs __________ support than steel piping?
More, More
B Vents are typically used for which type of fuels
Natural gas and propane
Where are notches and holes commonly permitted in trusses: webs, chords, or neither?
Neither
Are fan-assisted water heaters condensing?
No
Can polybutylene piping be used on a hot water recirculating loop?
No
Does knob and tube wiring have a ground wire associated with it?
No
If you identify a foundation crack, is it possible to determine the rate of movement a the time of the inspection?
No
Is a vacuum necessary to have backflow at a cross connection?
No
Is it good practice to apply new built-up roof membranes over old?
No
Once a roof is installed, can you see all the important installation details?
No
Should you walk on a concrete roof?
No
Should you walk on a slate roof?
No
When a foundation is supported on piles, are the piles typically visible for inspection?
No
are gas pipes allowed in circulating or ventilating air ducts? Yes or No
No
Is caulking an acceptable substitute to letting the flashing into the mortar joints? Explain.
No, a caulked joint will be an ongoing maintenance problem.
A water heater is termed a single pass appliance because?
The water heater does not use a recirculating system; it sees the water only once
what turns off the gas if there is a problem at a water heater and or gas furnace?
Thermocouple
What is a cant strip and where is it used?
Triangular blocks used at 90 degree intersections to allow asphalt based roofing materials to make two 45 degree bends.
A compressor can be thought of as a pump? True or False
True
A house with several different styles of crimp rings should be a cause for concern? True or False
True
Access shall be provided to all air admittance valves. the valve shall be located within a ventilated space that allows air to enter the valve. True or False
True
All above ground portion of a gas piping system other than ccst (corrugated stainless steel tubing) that is likely to be energized shall be electrically continuous and bonded to a effective ground fault circuit path. Gas piping shall be considered to be bonded where it is connected to appliances that are connected to the equipment grounding conductor of the circuit supplying that appliance. True or False
True
All vent pipes must be sloped to drain? true or false
True
Aluminum is an acceptable service entrance conductor material. True or False?
True
An undersized air conditioner is better than an oversized one. True or False?
True
Beams should be mechanically fastened to the supporting members. True or False?
True
Bearing walls and partition walls are built in substantially the same way. True or False?
True
CCST gas piping systems shall be bonded to the electrical service grounding electrode circuit with no less then a 6 awg copper wire. true or false
True
Chimneys may have multiple flues? True or False
True
Combo waste and vent system is ok for floor drains, sinks and lavatories. A combo of waste and vent system can not receive the waste of a garbage disposal. True or false
True
Copper tubing shall comply with standard type k and L of astm and shall not be used if the bas contains more then an average of .3 grains of hydrogen sulfide per 100 cubic feet of gas. True or False
True
Evaluating the quality of the water available at a private source is beyond the scope of a standard home inspection? True or False
True
Every trap should be provided with some method of removal or cleaning. True or False?
True
Factory-built fireplaces do not have a smoke shelf. True or False?
True
Fiber-cement shingles contain some of the same components as concrete tiles. True or False?
True
Fireplaces can be built-in or free-standing. True or False?
True
Floors will bend a little before they break. True or False?
True
Gas and oil-fired water heaters are not allowed in sleeping areas. True or False?
True
Hose bibbs subject to freezing including the frostproof type shall be equipped with an accessible stop and waste type valve inside the building so that they can be controlled and drained during cold periods. True or False
True
In concealed locations pipes other then cast iron or galvanized steel passing through studs joists rafters ect. less then 1 1/2 in from the nearest edge shall be protected with steel plates. True or false
True
Island fixture venting shall not be permitted for fixtures other then sinks and lavatories. True or false
True
Joists resting on foundation walls at or near grade level are prone to rot. True or False?
True
Knob and tube wiring was commonly installed without junction boxes. True or False?
True
Leaking skylights can lead to structural problems. True or False?
True
Most garage floors are not structural. True or False?
True
No unions or bushings are allowed to be in a concealed space. True or False
True
Outlets should be close to basins. True or False?
True
Pipe size should always increase as you move downstream and more fixtures join in. True or False?
True
Plastic DWV above roof protected with latex paint. True or False
True
Polybutylene supply piping should not be closer than 18 inches to a water heater. True or False?
True
Service entrace conductors run from the service drop to the service box or service panel. True or False?
True
Sewer ejector pumps should not vibrate significantly when running? True or False?
True
Slate roof are the most expensive to install and maintain. True or False?
True
Surface cracking in an acrylic kitchen sink is not usually a concern because there is no leakage. True or False?
True
The circulation pump (whirlpool pump) shall be accessible above the crown weir of the trap. True or False
True
The minimum required air gap shall be twice the diameter of the effective opening of the outlet. True or False.
True
The red and black wires of multi-wire circuits should be on separate bus bars. True or False?
True
The service box can be inside, outside, or in the garage. True or False?
True
The service box may stand alone or may be combined with the distribution panel. True or False?
True
The service size is determined by the amperage and the voltage ratings of the service.
True
The typical temperature drop from outdoors to indoors with a properly operating air conditioning system would be about 15 degrees? True or False
True
Vent openings can not be below the weir of a trap except for a toilet. True or false
True
Vertical pipes at ends of runs are one method of preventing water hammer? True or False
True
Wall framing problems are often tough to identify because wall framing details are usually concealed. True or False?
True
Wood beams should not be supported directly on hollow concrete block. True or False?
True
acceptable gas piping material includes galvanized and black steel, yellow brass and ccst. True or false
True
accessible full bore shutoff required at house, gate/ball valves required for mains and water heater. True or false
True
all joints between fixtures and walls or floors need to be sealed? True or False
True
every meter shall be equipped with a shutoff valve located on the supply side of the meter and be located outdoors. True of False
True
sillcocks, hose bibbs, wall hydrants and other openings with a hose connection shall be protected by atmospheric type or pressure type vacuum breaker or a permanently attached hose connection vacuum breaker. True or False
True
Pipes passing through a foundation wall require a relieving arch or a pipe sleeve? true or false
True ( pipe sleeve must be two sizes greater then the pipe passing through the foundation.)
Should the neutral and the ground wires be bonded together at the sub-panel?
No, because electricity may flow through the ground wire under normal conditions. The ground wire should be reserved for emergency conditions.
Do we normally shut off the power when looking at the electrical system in the house? Why or why not?
No, it would be a significant inconvenience to the occupant.
Is your chimney inspection finished when you get off the roof?
No, you must inspect the area below the chimney flashing for damage.
Is a sloped roof waterproof? Explain.
No--they just shed water like an umbrella. They are not designed to control standing water.
Class A chimneys are typically used for which fuels
Oil and some wood burning appliances
What type of water heater has the fastest recovery rate?
Oil fired
which type of water heater has the fastest recovery rate?
Oil fired water heater
Explain why fused neutrals are a bad idea.
Only the fuse on the neutral side blows. The circuit may not work, but there may be voltage throughout the entire circuit.
What is the major advantage of an evaporative cooler?
Operating cost are typically 1/2 of a central Air conditioner.
The condenser coil in a split system is typically located________?
Outdoors
The condenser fan in a split system is located _________?
Outdoors
Which way should a hinged shower door open in a shower stall?
Outwards
Why is it common to find sagging of roof sheathing on trusses?
Trusses are further apart than most rafters. Trusses are often 24 inches o.c. and some common plywood sheathings are not thick enough to span 24 inches without sagging under loads.
Are service laterals overhead or underground?
Underground
Which is the best of the 3 options above?
Upgrade attic insulation and ventilation
What are 3 possible actions to minimize ice damming?
Upgrade insulation and ventilation; add eave protection; or add electric heating cables.
Give a definition of lateral support as it applies to foundations.
Usually a floor system secured to the top of the foundation wall, preventing it from tipping inward.
A water heater inspection includes checking for all of the following except 1. pressure relief valve 2. A fullway valve 3. Vacuum breaker installation 4. Minimum clearance above garage floor of 18 in to source of ignition
Vacuum breaker installation
Describe in one sentence a stop and waste valve.
Valve shuts off water, drain cock drains water from pipe
On a flat roof system, the counter flashing is typically attached to the: vertical / horizontal surface.
Vertical surface
What is the effect of vines growing on wood siding?
Vines hold water and reduce the drying potential.
Plumbing fixtures, other then _________ ___________ shall be provided with strainers
Water closet
What is the problem that people are experiencing with EIFS?
Water is getting into the wall system at penetrations and causing structural damage.
What is the main implication of exposed felts?
Water may be wicked into the felt.
Is a flat roof system a 'shedding' system or a 'watertight' system?
Watertight
When is an auxiliary condensate drain pan needed?
When the evaporator coil is located in an attic or anywhere over a finished living space.
Missing fire stopping: (3) a. is more common on ballon frame than platform construction. b. is a fire hazard c. is tough to see on most inspections d. is only found in masonry houses. e. is never found in masonry houses.
a, b, and c
What size copper wires are adequately protected by: a. 15 amp breaker b. 20 amp breaker c. 30 amp breaker d. 40 amp breaker
a. 14 gauge b. 12 gauge c. 10 gauge d. 8 gauge
What size copper wire would you expect to find on the service entrance for: a. 60-amp service b. 100-amp service c. 200-amp service
a. 6 gauge b. 4 gauge c. 2-0 gauge
Which siding would perform better? a. 12-inch wide board or 6-inch wide board? b. 3/4 inch wide board or 3/8 in wide board? c. smooth board or rough-textured board? d. 6 foot long board or 12 foot long board?
a. 6 inch wide board b. 3/4 inch wide board c. rough textured board d. 6 foot long board
List the implication and inspection strategy for "ADJACENT CHIMNEYS OF DIFFERNT HEIGHTS" as pertains to chimney vent problems
corrosion Check for 16 In clearance between metal chimneys
List common masonry veneer wall problems. Think of the masonry veneer part only.
cracked; bowing or leaning; mortar problems; stone/brick deterioration; weep holes missing or blocked; efflorescence; too close to grade; wavy brick walls; sagging lintels or arches
List 5 common concrete floor problems.
cracked; settled; heaved; hollow below slab
Name 4 common failure modes for roll roofing.
cracking; blistering; buckling; loss of granules
What the the common failure modes for wood shingles and shakes?
curling; cupping; splitting; rotting; wear through; burn through.
How should the feeder wires to a sub-panel from the main panel ideally be protected? a. No fusing is necessary. b. The main house breakers will protect the wire. c. Fuses should be provided at the subpanel. d. Fuses should be provided at the main panel. e. None of the above.
d.
Which of the following is a reliable way to identify the service size? a. the size of the service drop wires b. the distribution panel rating c. the service box rating d. the service entrance conductor e. the service entrance conduit size
d.
Shrinkage crack patterns in concrete floors are usually: a. in circles b. in straight lines c. random d. at 45 degrees to the walls e. at 90 degrees to the walls
random
Roof/sidewall flashings are similar to what flashing we discussed earlier?
flashings at the side of chimneys
What 2 general shapes are clay tiles likely to be?
flat or curved
What shapes are concrete tiles?
flat or curved
Beams carry loads from: a. floors b. walls c. roofs d. footings e. columns
floors, walls, roofs, and columns
Beams rest on: a. foundations b. columns c. studs d. joists e. buttresses
foundations and columns
What is the best spot from which to inspect the valley flashing?
from the eaves
When was it used?
from the mid 1960's to the late 1970's.
Common roof/sidewall flashing materials include:
galvanized steel; aluminum; galvalume; lead; copper; lead-coated copper.
In what part of the roof are missing shingles or shakes most likely?
hips and ridges
Steep roofs may have a large surface area but a small ___________. This means that their gutters need to be (bigger/smaller) than you might expect.
horizontal projection gutters can be smaller
Where does the probe for the temperature/pressure relief valve sit in the tank?
in the top 6 inches of the tank
It's best to test a garage door opener from (inside / outside) the garage.
inside
The metal brackets used to support joists are called ___________.
joist hangers
Subfloors act like: (2) a. joists b. foundations c. columns d. footings e. beams
joists and beams
List as many kinds of trusses as you can.
king post; queen post; fink; howe; fan; belgian or double fink; scissor; mono; pratt; warren; gable end
What tools could be used on an interior inspection of a skylight?
ladder, moisture meter, ir camera
The primary implication of sidewall flashing problems is _____________.
leakage
What are the implications of a valley flashing problem?
leakage
What is the implication of improper support on piping?
leakage
What is the implication of poor chimney flashings?
leakage
What problem may result from exposed nail heads through metal flashing into the roof?
leakage
List common skylight conditions.
leakage; rot; mechanical damage; patching; cracked glazing; lost seal; missing or low curb; incomplete flashings; loose; window used as a skylight
List 12 common flashing problems.
leaks; old; rusted; loose seams or ends; patches; sagging or slipping base flashing; fasteners backing out; dried out caulking or sealant; loose clamps or termination bar; pitch pockets not filled.
Water heaters located in a bedroom or bathroom shall be installed in a sealed enclosure so that combustion air will not be taken from the __________ space
living
Common hip and ridge conditions include:
loose misaligned or missing pieces separation of wood hips and ridges rust installation problems
Wires should not be run on wall surfaces without ___________.
mechanical protection
List 10 common flashing installation problems.
missing pieces; incompatible materials; too short; loose; no allowance for expansion and contraction; exposed fasteners; horizontal surfaces that collect water; missing reglets; missing cant strip
List 8 common arch and lintel problems.
missing; cracks; mortar problems; stone or brick deterioration; sagging, leaning, or rotating; end bearing; rust; rot or insect damage
What is the life expectancy of vinyl and aluminum siding?
more than 40 years
Slate is a _________ product that lasts __________ than asphalt shingles.
natural longer
Can you look at the elements on an electric furnace or boiler?
no
Is gas piping ok to ground electrode in earth? yes or no
no
can the trap be longer then the arm?
no
What areas of a roof are most prone to ice damming?
north slopes; bottom of valleys; low-sloped roofs; roofs with changing slopes; roofs with wide soffits; roofs over porches and balconies.
List as many conditions relating to the membrane of a built-up roof as possible.
old; mechanically damaged; patched; multiple layers; blisters; alligatoring; gravel erosion; ridging; fishmouths; membrane movement; ponding; debris or storage; exposed felts.
List 9 common problems you will find on modified bitumen roofs.
old; openings at seams and flashing; surface cracking; loss of granules; slippage; punctures; ponding; patching.
Which type of skylight is most likely to be successful: a skylight mounted on a curb or a skylight mounted directly on a roof?
on a curb
Where is the anti-oxidant grease typically used?
on stranded aluminum wires
Top quality flashings at roofs meeting masonry walls above are 2-piece flashings. Most found on existing homes are ________- piece.
one
Wire should be _____ inches away from the edge of studs.
one and a quarter inches
Where is the condenser fan in a split system located?
outdoors in the condenser unit
Beams sag because they are _____________. Another way of saying the same thing is that the beam us under____________.
overspanned or undersized
Give 3 possible causes of sagging sheathing.
overspanning; excessive load; deteriorated wood; panel sheathing installed in the wrong direction; inadequate edge support
Columns that rest on the mid-point of beam spans may: (2) a. indicate very good design. b. overstress the beam. c. create a concentrated load. d. prevent beam sag. e. create a strong connection.
overstress the beam and create a concentrated load
To work well, a foundation drainage layer requires ________________.
perimeter drainage tile
Name 3 common subfloor materials.
planking, plywood, waferboard
What are condensate drain lines usually made of?
plastic or copper
Pipe flashing might be found at which roof penetrations?
plumbing stacks, electrical masts, exhaust vents
Which is stronger, a poured concrete wall or concrete block wall of the same dimension?
poured concrete
What is the main function of a collar tie?
prevents rafter sag
What is the best way to test for rot in a wooden stair stringer?
probe the wood with an awl or screwdriver
Abandoned wire should be ____________.
removed
Checking of wood beams: (2) a. indicates failure b. requires repair but not replacement. c. results from drying. d. is usually not serious. e. indicates fire damage.
results from drying and is usually not serious
Rise is usually _________ inches maximum, and tread depth is typically ___________ to _________ inches minimum.
rise is 7 3/4" maximum depth is 10 inches minimum
What are the 2 common materials that are used for open valley flashings?
roll roofing and metal
Define rafters, roof joists, and ceiling joists.
roof joists: horizontal or nearly horizontal framing members on low-sloped roofs that carry the sheathing, etc.
Wood lintels on the exterior face of a building are particularly prone to _______ problems.
rot
List 7 common veneer wall problems. Think of the wood frame part only.
rot and insect damage; leaning or racking; bowing or buckling; excess holes, notches and mechanical damage; sagging top plate; lack of fire stopping; sagging lintels
List common subflooring problems.
rot and insect damage; sag or springy; damaged or cut; cantilevered or unsupported ends; prior repairs; concentrated loads; squeaks; swollen waferboard; cracking ceramic tiles
List common joists problems you will see on inspections.
rot and insect damage; sagging joists; poor end bearing; rotated and twisting; inappropriate notches and holes; split or damaged; weak cantilevers; weakness around openings; prior repairs; missing joists; concentrated loads
List 12 common problems with doors and windows.
rot; damage; paint/stain problems; caulking/flashing problems; putty/glazing problems; sill slope; deteriorated sills; frame deformation; storm and screens missing or damaged; cracked or broken glass; condensation between panes; vines
Common stack flashing conditions include:
rust; damage; installation problems; vertically misaligned
List common masonry chimney flashing conditions.
rust; damaged; loose; missing base or cap (counter) flashing; missing reglets; base flashing not interwoven with shingles; inadequate overlap or height; missing cricket
List 14 common beam problems.
rust; rot or insect damage; sag; poor bearing; rotated or twisted; split or damaged; notches or holes; poor connections of built-up components; weak connections to columns; weak connections to joists; inadequate lateral support; concentrated loads; missing sections; prior repairs
Interior wall cracks radiating up from the tops of windows may mean: (3) a. sagging lintels b. foundation settlement c. over-spanning joists d. a lack of wall sheathing e. shrinkage of framing members
sagging lintels, foundation settlement, and shrinkage of framing members
Gutter leaks are common at ____________ and ______________..
seams and changes in direction
The most common sources of failure on EPDM roofs are _________ and _________________.
seams and flashings
Another name for roll roofing is ___________.
selvage roofing
The service entrance conductors run from the _________ to the ___________.
service drop to service box
Distribution panels are also called: (6)
service panels; panelboards; auxiliary panels; sub panels; fuse boxes; fuse panels; breaker panels
Are valley flashings a watertight or shedding type of flashing?
shedding type of flashing
Exhaust flues on gas or oil fired water heaters
should slop upward away from the heater at 1/4 inch per foot.
List 5 structural components of floors, as defined in this chapter.
sills; columns; beams; joists; subfloors
Which side of the roof will age more quickly in climates where UV light is the main aging factor?
south and west
Common stack flashing materials are _________.
steel; rubber; lead; copper; aluminum
What materials are used for arches?
stone, brick, or concrete--usually the same material as the walls.
How can you tell if slabs have had their support undermined?
tap on the slab and listen for a hollow sound
Define Creosote
tar-like byproduct of incomplete combustion
Are columns most likely to rot at the top, middle, or bottom?
the bottom
Describe spalling.
the crumbling, flaking, chipping, or shaling of the surface of the masonry
Where is rust most likely to be found on a steel beam?
the ends.
The grounding electrode conductor may also be called __________.
the ground wire
How wide should a column be relative to the width of the beam it supports?
the same width
What is the problem with running wire across the top of the attic ceiling joists?
they are not visible and may be stepped on
What is the recommended way to test the automatic reverse on a garage door opener?
with a 2" block of wood placed in the door's path
The 2 most common beam materials are:
wood and steel
What materials are commonly used for soffits and fascia?
wood, aluminum, fiber-cement, hardboard, osb, plywood, or vinyl
Common air conditioner thermostat problems include all of the following except? Poor location Not level Loose Wrong size
wrong size
Does a copper pipe rust?
yes
Does a toilet need to have a shutoff valve on the supply line?
yes
In general, is there a higher risk of leakage at a patched area of roof?
yes
are water and sewer pipes allowed to be in the same trench?
yes (provided the sewer pipe is listed as ok for underground use otherwise the two pipes must be separated by a minimum of 5 feet)
List five plaster and drywall problems on walls.
1) Bulging, loose or missing 2) shadow effect 3) crumbling or powdery 4) nail pops 5) poor joints.
List two functions of trim on the interior of homes.
1) Cover joints at changes of material and direction 2) protect walls
List six glass problems.
1) Cracked 2) broken 3) loose 4) missing 5) lost seal 6) excess condensation.
List nine common countertop problems.
1) Entire top loose 2) loose or missing 3) burned 4) cut 5) worn 6) mechanical damage 7) stained 8) metal rusted 9) substrate rotted
List two general window problems.
1) Leaks 2) headers sagging/missing
List four window functions.
1) Light 2) ventilation 3) architectural appeal 4) emergency exit
List five functions of exterior doors.
1) Means of entry and exit 2) security 3) privacy 4) weather-tight 5) fire resistant if they connect to a garage.
List ten exterior trim problems.
1) Missing 2) rot 3) rust 4) damaged, cracked loose 5) sills with reversed slope 6) sill projection inadequate 7) drip edge missing 8) putty cracked, missing, loose, deteriorated 9) caulking/flashing missing, loose, rusted, incomplete 10) paint or stain needed
List six implications of wet basements.
1) Nuisance 2) damaged interior finishes and furnishing 3) odors and mold 4) structural deterioration 5) electrical shock or fire hazard 6) damaged insulation
List four common wall finish materials.
1) Plaster or drywall 2) wood plank or paneling 3) masonry or concrete 4) fiber cement paneling.
List four common ceiling finish materials.
1) Plaster or drywall 2) wood, hardboard or plywood 3) fiber cement or concrete 4) acoustic or suspended tile.
List seven countertop materials you may find in kitchens or bathrooms.
1) Plastic laminate 2) wood 3) marble 4) granite 5) synthetic marble 6) stainless steel 7) ceramic 8) limestone 9) synthetic granite
List four problems with wood wall and ceiling finishes.
1) Rot 2) cracked, split or broken 3) buckled 4) loose.
List eight sash problems.
1) Rot 2) rust 3) inoperable 4) stiff 5) sashes won't stay open 6) sash coming apart 7) loose fit 8) weather stripping missing or ineffective.
List six frame problems
1) Rot 2) rusted 3) racked 4) deformed 5) installed backwards 6) drain holes blocked/ missing
List six interior trim problems.
1) Rot 2) stained 3) missing 4) cracked 5) loose 6) poor fit.
List five window hardware problems.
1) Rusted 2) broken 3) missing 4) loose 5) inoperable
List six plaster and drywall ceiling problems.
1) Shadow effect 2) crumbling or powdery 3) nail pops 4) poor drywall joints 5) sag 6) textured ceilings in wet areas
Name two special inspection strategies you can use on ceilings.
1) Shine flashlight along ceiling 2) lift tiles on suspended ceilings.
List eight common window types.
1) Single hung 2) double hung 3) casement 4) horizontal sliders 5) awning 6) hopper 7) fixed 8) jalousie.
Most wet basement problems come from what two sources?
1) Surface water from rain or snow 2) groundwater
List at least four common problems with storms and screens.
1) Tom 2) holes 3) rust 4) loose 5) missing
List three general ceiling problems.
1) Water damage 2) cracked, loose or missing sections 3) mechanical damage
List four general wall problems.
1) Water damage 2) cracks 3) mechanical damage 4) inappropriate finishes in wet areas.
List twelve common cabinet problems.
1) Water damage 2) rot 3) stained 4) mechanical damage 5) worn 6) broken glass 7) defective hardware 8) stiff/inoperative 9) not well secured to wall 10) door or drawers missing/loose 11) shelves not well supported 12) rust.
List four common door materials.
1) Wood 2) metal 3) vinyl 4) hardboard
List three common materials used in window frames and sashes.
1) Wood 2) vinyl 3) metal.
List 2 functions of a fireplace damper
1. Allow exhaust products to leave the house during operation 2. Prevent cold air from entering the house when the fireplace is idle.
List the common problems found with fan assisted gas water heaters.
1. Inoperative 2. Blower intake obstructed 3. Poor venting arrangement 4. Poor blower wiring
List seven common problems with thermostats
1. Inoperative 2. Poor location 3. Not level 4. Loose 5. Dirty 6. Damaged 7. Poor adjustment/calibration
List three common condensate pump problems.
1. Inoperative 2.Leaking 3.Poor wiring
List 4 common areas of water penetration into service entrances.
1. conduit joints 2. mast head 3. roof flashing 4. meter base 5. house entry
List 3 common problems found with aluminum wiring.
1. connectors not compatible with aluminum 2. non anti-oxidant grease on stranded wires 3. overheating
List 2 common problems to look for on the exterior of exposed foundations.
1. cracking 2. spalling
List 7 common problems with masonry walls.
1. cracks 2. leaning, bowing, or bulging 3. mortar deteriorating or missing 4. prior repairs 5. deterioration of the masonry 6. efflorescence 7. too close to grade
List 5 common problems with conventional stucco.
1. cracks, crumbling, loose or bulging 2. incompatible flashing 3. mechanical damage 4. rusted lath or trim 5. no drip screed
List 6 common failure modes for asphalt shingles.
1. cupping 2. clawing 3. cracking 4. blistering 5. loss of granule material 6. tearing off
Give 4 examples of damaged wire.
1. cut or pinched 2. chewed on by animals 3. burned wire 4. brittle or cracked insulation
What are the issues with a double layer of soffit material (e.g., aluminum over wood)?
1. damage on the original layer can't be detected. 2. soffit vents can be covered up, rendering them ineffective.
List 4 possible problems that can arise from a large tree growing too close to a home.
1. damage the siding 2. prevent air and sunlight from drying the siding 3. heave or push in the foundation 4. damage to roof
List 4 common problems found with switches.
1. damaged 2. loose 3. overheating 4. inoperative
List 7 common junction box problems.
1. damaged 2. missing 3. loose 4. not grounded 5. cover loose or missing 6. crowded 7. concealed boxes
Clean outs shall not be more than ___ feet apart in horizontal drainage lines measured from the upstream entrance of the cleanout.
100
No construction debris, rocks or discarded concrete is allowed in the first _________ in of backfill
12
fixtures with concealed slip joints connections shall have a minimum of _________ in of accessibility
12
gas pipe must be buried at least _________ in underground
12
How far above fireplace openings should combustibles be if thy project out beyond the opening by 1 1/2 inches?
12 inches
Water service piping must be buried at lest _________ and in cold climates must be buried at least __________ below the frost line.
12 inches, 6 inches
The water service pipe shall be installed a minimum of ______ in deep or _________ in below the frost line
12, 6
Whirlpool tub motor requires minimum _______ in by ______ in access and ______ in by _________ in if pump is greater then two feet from opening.
12,12,18,18
What is the typical life expectancy of an asphalt shingle roof?
12-25 years
Hot water supplied to the bathtub shall be limited to a temperature of ________ degrees .
120
Which is more dangerous a 240 volt heater on a 120 volt circuit or a 120 volt heater on a 240 volt circuit
120 volt heater on a 240 volt circuit
What would 2 wires usually mean?
120 volt service
The most common wire size for branch household circuits is:
14 gauge
What size wire is found on most general purpose outlets for lights and receptacles?
14 gauge
Windows should not be used as skylights. Anything that has more than a _____ degree of slope off vertical should not be treated as a window.
15
What is the minimum total height for a chimney serving a wood stove?
15 Feet
a toilet shall not be set closer then _______ inches from its center to any side wall partition or vanity, and requires a clearance of not less then _________ in
15,21
What kind of temperature drop would you expect to find in the house air as it passes over the evaporator coil?
15-20 degrees
Joists are usually spaced _________ or ___________ inches on center.
16 or 24
Hearths should extend ____ inches out in front and ____ inches to either side of the fireplace opening.
16-8
How high above the floor should a gas or oil fired water heater be in a garage?
18 inches
Standpipe receptors for clothes washers shall extend above the trap no less than ____ and a maximum of ____ A. 18" B. 24" C. 30" D. 42"
18, 42
PEX tubing should be supported at least every _____ in horizontally and vertically every ________ feet
32,10
Railings on stairways should be between _________ inches and ____________ inches above the stair nosing depending on your area.
34 to 38
Guardrails should be at least ___________ inches high.
36
ABS and pvc piping must be solidly supported horizontally every _______ feet
4
Air admittance valves shall be located not less then _________ in above the horizontal branch drain or fixture drain being vented
4
How far should combustibles be from the firebox walls?
4 Inches
End bearing for steel lintels in masonry should be at least __________ inches.
4 inches
The openings between railing spindles should not be greater than ____________ inches.
4 inches
Ideally, weep holes in solid retaining walls are at least __________ inches in diameter and not more than __________ feet apart.
4 inches in diameter not more than 10 feet apart
The hearth extension typically sits on _________ inches of ________?
4, poured concrete
On hydrotherapy tubs (AKA Jacuzzi ) damage can occur to ___________ _______________ if they are operated without water
Circulating pumps
All of the following are common drainage piping problems except? Missing or inaccessible cleanouts Pipe sizes that are reduced as you go downstream Clay tile piping buried in the soil combustible piping used in multi family building non standard piping material
Clay tile piping buried in soil
Which chimney is likely to have a heavier creosote deposit--a warm chimney or a cold chimney?
Cold Chimney
What can cause a toilet to sweat?
Cold supply water on a warm, humid day can cause the toilet tank and toilet fill pipe to sweat, particularly if it is not allowed to warm up because of a running toilet
Do condensate drain lines ever have a trap?
Condensate lines from the primary pan may or may not have a trap. Lines from secondary pans should never be trapped.
Water running out of the burner compartment on start up of a gas water heater suggests?
Condensation in the combustion chamber is running down through the center of the water heater and draining out the bottom.
A house that has integral gutters is more prone to ice damming if it has a steep roof. True or False?
False
A metal surface is a common and inexpensive way to cover large flat roofs. True or False?
False
A running trap is a good idea because it provides extra protection? True or False?
False
All junction boxes should be concealed. True or False?
False
All service entrance conductors must be attached above roof level. True or False?
False
All service entrance conductors must be in conduit. True or False?
False
Any B-vent can be installed up the outside of a house. True or False?
False
Automatic garage door openers have to be strong because they lift the weight of the door. True or False?
False
Bad grading will always cause wet basements. True or False?
False
Basement fireplaces typically draw better than 1st or 2nd story fireplaces since the chimney is taller? True or False
False
Because there is a watertight liner underneath the tiles in a shower stall base, the floor is not required to slope to drain. True or False
False
Clay tile liners should be supported on metal fireboxes. True or False?
False
Compressors are typically located indoors on an air-to-air split system air conditioning system. True or False?
False
Cracks due to horizontal forces rarely result in structural problems. True or False?
False
During an inspection, you should never lift on the edge of a skylight. True or False?
False
Evaporator coils should be upstream of furnace heat exchangers. True or False.
False
Fiber-cement shingles can be bent without breaking. True or False?
False
Fireplaces are designed as a primary heating source in most cases. True or False?
False
High level returns are more appropriate for heating than cooling. True or False?
False
Holes in joists should be near the bottom rather than in the middle of the joists. True or False?
False
If you can't read the size of the fuses in the service box, you should remove them to try to get a better look. True or False?
False
It is good practice to connect a metal chimney to a masonry chimney part way up the house so that the exterior part of the chimney is masonry? True or false
False
It's impossible for a trap to be too long? True or False
False
Joists notched at their end are stronger than normal joists. True or False?
False
Joists see vertical loads only. True or False?
False
Lintels should be mortared tightly into place. True or False?
False
Load calculations are part of a home inspection.
False
Metal chimneys often have several flues? True or False
False
Metal fireboxes should be mortared tightly to the masonry of the fireplace. True or False?
False
Nearly horizontal vent pipes should slope slightly down away from the trap they are protecting. True or False?
False
One smoke detector is need in each home, near the kitchen because that's where most fires start. True or False?
False
Openings in partition walls need headers. True or False?
False
Oversized distribution ductwork is a common problem with central air conditioning? True or False
False
Oversized ducts are a common problem. True or False?
False
Partition walls exert no load on floor joists because they are not load bearing walls. True or False?
False
Patched cracks on brick are a sure sign of serious structural movement. True or False?
False
Plastic piping needs less support than copper piping because it tends to expand more. True or False?
False
Plywood should be installed with its long dimension parallel to joists. True or False?
False
Running toilets are less prone to sweating because the water in the tank is constantly replenished. True or False?
False
Smoke on a mantel always means a poor drafting fireplace?
False
Steel beams should be shimmed with wood. True or False?
False
Subpanels must be immediately adjacent to the main panel. True or False?
False
Testing for loose wall hung basins is best done by putting all your weight on the basin. True or False?
False
The amount of air that must cross an evaporator coil in a heating climate is less than the amount of air that must cross a conventional furnace heat exchanger coil. True or False
False
The base flashing on a flat roof is a 'shedding' system. True or False?
False
The drip loop is typically part of the service drop. True or False?
False
The drip loop should be as close to the roof as possible. True or False?
False
The larger line contains a liquid? True or false
False
The masonry veneer is a load bearing part of the structure. True or False?
False
The roof covering is typically part of the structure of the home. True of False?
False
The smaller line is called the suction line. True or False?
False
The top of the exposed edge of a steel lintel should be caulked. True or False?
False
The vent diameter must be as large as the trap diameter? True or False?
False
The vent is typically located upstream of the trap? True or False?
False
The wire size for the service drop must be the same as the wire size for the service entrance conductors. True or False?
False
There can be up to 10 throws to disconnect all the electricity in the house. True or False?
False
Two wood burning fireplaces can share a single flue as long as they are on the same floor level. True or False?
False
Typical distribution panels have 60 circuits. True or False?
False
Walls see vertical loads only. True or False?
False
Drain pipe clean outs must remain accessible. The area in front of the clean out must have a clearance of no less the _______ in for 3 in and larger pipes, all smaller pipe cleanouts require a minimum of ______ in of clearance
18,12
When was copper supply piping first used?
1930s
When did masonry chimneys start to get built with clay liners?
1950's
A kitchen drain, if properly trapped will have a minimum water seal of __________ inches
2
Metal chimneys for wood fireplaces typically need ____ inches of clearance from combustibles.
2
Over the rim bath Faucet requires a minimum air gap of _______ inches
2
The minimum diameter in inches of a floor drain waste outlet is _________
2
What is the minimum size drain pipe on any appliance?
2
cumbustible attic insulation should be kept ______ inches away from most chimneys
2
At least how far should an outdoor vent termination be above an operable door?
2 Feet
Generally speaking, How far should wood framing members be kept away from masonry chimneys?
2 inches
How far should combustibles be from chimneys?
2 inches
What is the typical vent size on a sewer ejector pump?
2 inches
What is the maximum a chimney can be offset from vertical?
30 degrees max
Guardrails are typically required on porches, decks, or balconies more than _________ inches above grade.
30 inches
What is the minimum width of space needed for a toilet installation?
30 inches
All of the following are basic components of a masonry woodburning fireplace except A) a throat. B) a heat circulator. C) a smoke shelf. D) a damper.
Heat circulator
What causes ice dams?
Heat loss through the roof leading to melting of snow. This water then refreezes when it gets down to the colder eaves area.
Expanding, rusting steel lintels over windows and doors often cause cracks in what direction in masonry walls?
Horizontal cracks.
Why should spindles be vertical, not horizontal?
Horizontal spindles are climbable.
What can cause saging of the top plate on a knee wall?
If it is a single plate and if the studs are not lined up with the rafters above.
How might paint indicate that a beam has slipped out of its pocket?
If the beam is painted and there are unpainted parts visible at the supports, this may indicate movement of the beam.
When would a fan assisted gas water heater typically be used?
If the house has no chimney or a chimney too large for a water heater
Under what circumstances might a window be considered too small?
If the window is required for egress
Explain the difference between uniform settlement and differential settlement.
In uniform settlement, the entire house moves and no cracking develops. With differential settlement, one part of the house moves relative to another. This typically results in cracking.
Define 'technically exhaustive' within the scope of a home inspection.
Includes dismantling, extensive use of measurements, instruments, testing or calculations.
Why might a damaged foundation wall start to move suddenly after a heavy rain?
Increase of hydrostatic pressure or swelling of expansive soils.
Where is the evaporator fan typically located in a split system?
Indoors
The evaporator coil in a split system is typically located _____________?
Indoors (above the Furnace)
Describe in one sentence what home inspection must provide for clients.
Inspections provide clients with information regarding the condition of the systems and components of the home inspected at the time of the home inspections.
How is cross connection prevented with a hose bibb?
Install a backflow prevention device
Ducts passing through unconditioned spaces should as attics and crawlspaces should be ____________.
Insulated, with appropriate vapor barriers
What is the difference between insulation and sheathing?
Insulation is around individual wires; sheathing forms the cables by wrapping around the insulated wires.
Definition of a Flue
Interior passages within a chimney which move gases upwards from different fuel burning appliances
Common faucet problems include all of the following EXCEPT leaks stiff loose cross connection isolating valves
Isolating valve
What is the biggest impact of the single pass feature on a water heater?
It is constantly exposed to fresh water and so is more prone to corrosion than a boiler.
Why in a cold climate is the trap portion of the drainage system most vulnerable to freezing?
It is the only portion of the drainage system which always contains water
What is the function of a sump or crankcase heater?
It keeps the oil at the base of the compressor warm enough to boil off the refrigerant
What is the problem with having aluminum in contact with stucco?
It oxidizes (deteriorates)
Why can carpet on wood porches be bad?
It prevents close inspection and hold water against the wood causing rot.
The implication of an oversized heat pump during the summer month is?
It would cool the house down too fast without dehumidifying the air resulting in a cool damp environment.
Why is PVC or ABS plastic piping usually allowed only in a single-family home?
It's combustible
Explain briefly the problems with venting kitchen island sinks
Kitchen islands are not adjacent to walls, therefore the vent pipe is some distance from the island, often exceeding the maximum allowable distance between trap and vents
Wet spots at the front of the property that are otherwise unexplained suggest?
Leaking water service pipe
The most common problem with plumbing fixtures is?
Leaks
A waste pipe carries what type of waste?
Liquid
Which line should be warm when the system is operating?
Liquid line (Smaller uninsulated line)
Explain briefly the simple test required to check the venting system when you test functional drainage from a fixture?
Listen for gurgling as the last bit of water leaves the drain and smell for sewer odors
Explain the difference between a live load and a dead load. Give examples.
Live loads (people, wind, snow) vary. Dead loads are relatively fixed.
What can happen to roof materials if a dormer has gutters but no downspouts?
Localized discoloration and premature wear occur below the gutter.
Where can you look on a roof to determine the number of layers?
Look at gable ends or edges of the roof. Also check the nailing pattern from the underside of the roof.
If it hasn't rained recently, what are other clues that might lead you to believe the roof has experienced ponding?
Look for dirt, algae, and vegetation on the roof.
What things do you look for to determine whether the shingles are old?
Look for loss of granules, cracking, clawing, cupping, missing shingles, or widening of slots between tabs.
It's a good idea to inspect the neighborhood as you are arriving at an inspection. What kinds of things should you look for and how can they help you in your inspection?
Look for structural problems in other homes; erosion or land movement; slope; and general age. Consider background knowledge such as reclaimed land, high water table, etc.
Common toilet problems include all of the following except? Leaks Low water pressure loose Flush mechanism inoperative
Low water pressure
Which style of roof (slope and soffit width) is most prone to ice damming?
Low-sloped roof with a wide soffit.
Where a steep roof meets a masonry wall at the side, counter flashing should be used. The counter flashing should be nailed or bolted to the surface of the brick wall and the joint filled with caulk. True or False
False
Wires run directly from the service box to the branch circuits. True or False
False
You are allowed to ground to the gas piping. True or False?
False
You can tell whether a chimney is lined by looking for a liner extending above the top? True or False
False
You should walk on clay tile roof. True or False?
False
You will never find 3 layers of asphalt shingles on a roof. True or False?
False
Zero clearance fireplaces do not typically require any clearance from combustibles at the top of the firebox? True or False
False
Zero clearance fireplaces require footing and foundations? True or False
False
Asbestos cement shingles should be removed from homes. True or False?
False.
What are the limits to a roof inspection?
Fasteners, flashing, and at least half of the roofing materials are concealed. The inspection is also not complete until you look at the underside of the roof.
Inside the firebox of a masonry fireplace, the surface of the hearth is typically _____________.
Fire Brick
What is FRT plywood and where was it commonly used?
Fire Resistant Treated plywood is typically used in row or town houses close to the party walls to avoid building parapet walls
List the implication and inspection strategy for "WARPED, BUCKLED OR TWISTED CHIMNEY WALLS" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Fire and life safety Check the chimney walls anywhere they are exposed, above and below the roof line
List the implication and inspection strategy for "SECTIONS NOT WELL SECURED" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Fire and life safety hazard Check the connecting sections
List the implication and inspection strategy for "CREOSOTE BUILDUP" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Fire hazard Check for creosote buildup inside flue
List the implication and inspection strategy for "INADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM COMBUSTIBLES" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Fire hazard Check for proper standoffs, thimbles and clearances
List the implication and inspection strategy for "INADEQUATE FIRE STOPPING" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Fire hazard Ensure that there are no gaps from top and bottom
List the implication and inspection strategy for "NOT LABELED FOR APPLICATION" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Fire or life safety hazard Look for labels that clarify the suitability of the application
List the implication and inspection strategy for "RUSTED OR PITTING" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Fire or life safety hazard, issue of exhaust gases being trapped in the house Check all accessible sections of chimney for corrosion
Describe the proper way to flash a ledgerboard installed over siding.
Flashing extends from under the siding, over the top of the ledgerboard, and down.
A waste pipe is intended to carry solids only. True or false
false
If the firebox is raised, the hearth extension can be smaller. True or False?
false
Masonry chimneys usually help support wood frame structures
false
List common flashing materials.
felt paper rubberized asphalt rubber metal roll roofing
Hardboard is a type of _____________ board.
fiber
What are the 2 types of closed valleys?
1. closed cut or half woven valley 2. fully woven valley
List 5 common column materials.
1. concrete 2. concrete block 3. brick 4. steel 5. wood
Roof shingles should not project more than _________ inches out over the inner edge of the gutter.
1 inch maximum projection
List five ceramic floor problems and their implications.
(Loose) 1. Water damage to subflooring 2. Trip hazard (Grout missing) 1. Water damage to subflooring (Cracked or broken) 1. Water damage to subflooring 2. Trip hazard (Worn) 1. Cosmetic 2. Trip hazard if pieces are loose (Stains) 1. Cosmetic
List five common problems with interior trim and their implications.
(Missing) Cosmetic (Water damage) Rot; damage to building systems behind (Rot) Damage to building systems (Loose) Damage to building systems behind (Mechanical damage) Cosmetic or air leakage
List four carpet problems and their implications.
(Rot) 1. Cosmetic problems 2. Possible damage to subflooring below 3. Health implications (Stains) 1. Cosmetic problems 2. Possible damage to subflooring below 3. Health implications (Odors) 1. Cosmetic problems 2. Possible damage to subflooring below 3. Health implications (Buckled) 1. Trip hazard 2. Cosmetic problems
List six wood flooring problems and their implications.
(Rot) 1. Cosmetic problems 2. Trip hazards 3. Deterioration of the structure below (Warped) 1. Cosmetic problems 2. Trip hazards 3. Deterioration of the structure below (Buckled) 1. Cosmetic problems 2. Deterioration of the structure below (Stained) 1. Cosmetic problems 2. Trip hazards 3. Deterioration of the structure below (Squeaks) 1. A nuisance only (Exposed tongues ) 1. Slivers, splinter or exposed nail heads and possibly injury 2. Cosmetic
List three resilient flooring problems and their implications.
(Split) 1. Water damage to subflooring 2. Trip hazard (Open seams) 1. Water damage to subflooring 2. Trip hazard (Lifted seams) 1. Water damage to subflooring 2. Trip hazard
List five general problems with floor systems and their implications.
(Water damage) 1. Cosmetic 2. Rot, staining or other damage to finish 3. Rot or other damage to structural components (Trip hazard) 1.Personal injury (Mechanical damage) 1.Unevenness or loss of continuity in the system (Loose or missing pieces) 1.Trip hazard 2.Moisture entry to subflooring (Absorbent materials in wet areas) 1.Premature deterioration 2.Rot damage to subflooring 3.Odors and air quality issues
List 14 common receptacle problems.
...
Flush tanks shall be equipped with an anti-siphon valve which needs to be located ________ in above the full opening of the overflow pipe.
1
Within each plumbing system not less then ________ stack vent or a vent stack shall extend outdoors to the open air
1
when there are 3 bathrooms in the house usually means a ________ in service
1
List as many of the implications of as many of the problems in Questions 10 to 12 as you can.
1 . Cosmetic 2. Damage to structure behind 3. Decorating issues 4. Structural movement or settling 5. Minor repair 6. Staining and deterioration 7. Mold growth 8. Life safety from falling plaster 9. Concealed damage 10. Moisture damage
List two exterior drip cap problems and their implications.
1 . Missing-the implication is water leakage 2. Ineffective-the implication is water leakage 3. Water leakage
Wet vent minimum pipe size is _________ in and must be located on the same floor level.
1 1/2
What is the minimum trap arm size for a kitchen sink
1 1/2 inches
The minimum size of a plumbing exhaust vent is how many inches?
1 1/4
The minimum diameter for a dry vent is _______
1 1/4 inches
A typical gutter slope is _________________.
1 inch drop over 200 inches of run
It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between a settlement problem and a heaving problem. Give a few examples of how you would distinguish between the two.
1. Are cracks opening, crushing, or sliding type cracks? 2. Settlement--patios and driveways slope down to house. Heaving--patios and driveways slope up toward house. 3. Look for humps or slopes to or away from central columns in the house. 4. Angle of overhead electrical wires compared to neighboring houses. 5. Check adjacent houses/neighborhood for similar problems. 6. Check the soil line against the building for sinking or lifting. If you can see a dirt line 6 inches above grade, heaving is more likely.
Summarize in one sentence each of the three elements of the Code of Ethics.
1. Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived. 2. Act in good faith toward your clients and other interested parties. 3. Avoid activities that my harm the public or discredit yourself or the profession.
List seven trim components commonly found in homes.
1. Baseboard 2. Quarter round 3. Door casing 4. Window casing 5. Chair rails 6. Plate rails 7. Cornice moldings 8. Rosettes or medallions
List five common flooring materials.
1. Concrete 2. Wood 3. Hardwood or softwood 4. Carpet 5. Resilient 6. Ceramic and quarry tile 7. Stone and marble
List 4 common problems with knob and tube wiring.
1. Connections not in boxes 2. brittle wire, insulation or sheathing 3. wire buried in insulation 4. fused neutrals
List five common materials used in venting systems
1. Copper 2. Galvanized steel 3. Cast Iron 4. ABS plastic 5. PVC plastic
List 8 different materials used for piping in drain, waste and vent systems
1. Copper 2. ABS plastic 3. PVC plastic 4. Cast iron 5. Lead 6. Galvanized steel 7. Brass 8. Clay
List the materials commonly used for water service piping
1. Copper 2. Galvanized steel 3. Lead 4. PVC plastic 5. CPVC plastic 6. Polyethylene plastic 7. Polybutylene plastic 8. Cast iron 9. Asbestos cement 10. Brass
List as many of the implications of the problems in Questions 15 to 18 as you can.
1. Cosmetic 2. Mechanical damage 3. Damage to structure behind 4. Failure of ceiling finishes 5. Safety hazards 6. Staining and deterioration 7. Mold and mildew growth 8. Decorating issues
List five concrete flooring problems.
1. Cracked 2. Settled, heaved 3. Water and efflorescence 4. Slope away from drain 5. Hollow below
List six fireplace, face or breast problems
1. Cracked 2. Settled 3. Loose 4. Combustible clearances inadequate 5. Evidence of overheating 6. Too thick
List 9 clues that would suggest that you are looking at a heat pump rather than da central air conditioning system
1. Data plate may say "HP" or "Heat pump" 2. Thermostat has an emergency heat setting 3. Both refrigerant lines are insulated 4. Presence of a reversing valve 5. Compressor is indoors and it's an air to air system 6. Presence of an outdoor thermostat connected to control wiring 7. If it is winter and the unit is operating its heat pump 8. You find a two-stage thermostat 9. You find two expansion devices
The functions of earth grounding systems include:
1. Dissipate electricity from lightning. 2. Avoid static electricity buildup.
List 2 common problems specific to electric furnaces
1. Ductwork too small 2. Burned out elements
List eight common compressor problems
1. Excessive noise/vibration 2. Short cycling or running continuously 3. Out of level 4. Wrong fuse or breaker size 5. Electric wires too small 6. Missing electrical shut off 7. Inoperative 8. Inadequate cooling
List five specific areas where tile enclosures are vulnerable to leakage
1. Faucets 2. Soap dishes 3. Grab bars 4.Windows 5. Changes in direction or material
List 13 locations in a house where there may be a cross connection.
1. Fixtures where the faucet spout is below the overflow or flood rim of the fixtures 2. Fixtures where hand held showers, extendable faucets or vegetable sprayers can be left in tubs basins or sinks 3. Garden hoses attached to a hose bib 4. A toilet tank where the fill water enters at the bottom 5. A dishwasher where a solenoid valve separates the clean water from the grey water 6. A clothes washer discharging into a laundry tub 7. A water softener 8. A humidifier connected to the supply piping 9. A lawn or fire sprinkler system 10. A bidet where water enters at the bottom of the bowl 11. A hot water boiler 12. A swimming pool fill outlet located below the flood level of the pool 13. A trap primer without a air gap
List 7 basic components of a masonry fireplace
1. Footing and foundation 2. Front hearth and back hearth 3. Firebox 4. Damper 5. Throat, Smoke shelf and smoke chamber 6. Mantel 7. Chimney
List the five basic components of a masonry chimney
1. Footing and foundation 2. Vent connector 3. Chimney walls 4. Flue liner 5. Chimney cap
List 18 general electrical problems that you might find associated with electric heaters
1. Fuses or breakers missing 2. Fuses or breakers too big 3. Multi wire circuits on the same bus 4. Fuses or breakers bypassed 5. Fuses or breakers loose 6. No links for 240 volt circuits 7. Wrong breaker for panel 8. Wire overheating 9. Wire damaged 10. Wire not well secured 11. Loose connectors 12. Open splices 13. Wires too close to ducts, pipes or chimneys 14. Wires to close to edge of joists or studs 15. Wires exposed on walls or ceilings 16. Wires exposed in attics 17. Wires too small 18. Aluminum wires used without compatible connectors
List materials used as water supply piping.
1. Galvanized steel 2. Copper 3. Polybutylene 4. Polyethylene 5. CPVC 6. Brass 7. Stainless Steel
List 10 things that affect chimney draft
1. Height 2. Flue size 3. Any offset from vertical 4. Appliance size 5. Number of appliances 6. Direction of prevailing wind 7. The temperature difference between inside and outside 8. Tall structures near the chimney 9. Whether the chimney is interior or exterior 10. The smoothness of the flue passage
What are 4 overall goals of the roof inspection?
1. Identify the roofing material. 2. Determine whether it was properly installed. 3. Determine whether it is performing properly or leaking. 4. Determine whether it is near the end of its life.
List 9 problems specific to electric space heaters
1. Inoperative heaters 2. Obstructed heaters 3. Dirty or bent fins on heaters 4. 120 volt heaters installed on a 240 volt circuit or vice versa 5. Fans-Noisy, inoperative, loose, or dirty 6. Thermostat overloaded 7. Missing or too few heaters 8. Damaged or rusted heaters 9. Loose or missing covers
List 2 general limitations to home inspection.
1. Inspections are visual and not technically exhaustive. 2. Inspections are applicable to four family units or less and associated garages and carports.
Give 8 conditions to watch for on clay tile roofs.
1. Installation problems 2. cracked or broken 3. pitted or spalling 4. missing 5. fasterner problems 6. flashing problems 7. underlying membrane problems 8. previous repair
List five clues to look for concerning ravine or sloping lots.
1. Is there vegetation growing over the whole surface? 2. Are there bands of freshly exposed topsoil? 3. Are the tree trunks vertical? 4. Is there cracking in the walls on the ravine side of the house? 5. Are retaining walls leaning out over the ravine?
List 8 common bathtub problems
1. Leaks 2. Rust 3. Surface defects 4. Cross connections 5. Not level 6. Overflow leaking, disconnected, or loose 7. Slow drains 8. Loose or unstable
List 9 common faucet problems
1. Leaks or drips 2. Stiff or inoperative 3. Loose 4. Cross connection 5. Noisy 6. Damaged, Rusted, loose or missing handles 7. Hot and cold reversed 8. Obstructed aerator 9. Shower diverter inoperative/defective
List 7 common problems with hose bibbs
1. Leaks or drips 2. stiff or inoperative 3. no backflow prevention 4. loose 5. pipe frozen or split 6. poor slope on a frost-free hose bibb 7. mechanical damage
List two reasons why outdoor combustion air may be a good idea
1. Makes fireplaces more efficient 2. Modern tighter construction makes it harder to supply air to fireplaces
List 8 common firebox problems
1. Masonry or mortar loose, missing or deteriorated 2. Masonry or refractory cracked 3. Rust out, Burnout, Buckled or cracked metal fireboxes 4. Inappropriate materials 5. Designed for coal 6. Too shallow 7. Lintels rusted, Sagging or loose 8. Draft suspect
List seven problems with throats, smoke shelves and smoke chambers
1. Missing 2. Debris 3. Excess slope 4. Uneven slope 5. Wood forms not removed 6. Walls not smooth 7. Rust
List 6 common damper problems?
1. Missing 2. Inoperative or obstructed 3. Damper or frame rusted 4. Frame loose 5. Too low 6. Undersized
Give 3 examples of typical roof/sidewall flashing installation defects.
1. Missing step or counter flashing. 2. Step flashing not tucked under shingles. 3. Flashing is too short or narrow. 4. Siding is not cut back. 5. Inadequate overlap of adjacent pieces of flashing. 6. Inappropriate or missing troughs or pans. 7. Counterflashing not let into mortar joints.
Describe 3 different cable types you might see.
1. NM, Romex, Loomex 2. UF 3. BX (AC-90), armored cable 4. knob and tube
List 10 common problems with service entrance conductors.
1. No drip loop 2. No mast head 3. Mast head not weather tight. 4. Mast or conduit bent. 5. Mast or conduit rusted. 6. Mast rotted (if wood). 7. Mast conduit or cable not well secured. 8. Mast conduit or cable not weather tight. 9. Conduit or cable not well sealed at house/wall penetration. 10. Cable frayed, damaged, or covered by siding.
List 14 Common metal chimney vent problems
1. Not labeled for application 2. Sections not well secured 3. Chimney/vent not well supported 4. Inadequate clearance from combustibles 5. Inadequate fire stopping 6. No cap, Wrong cap or obstructed cap 7. Warped, buckled or twisted chimney walls 8. Rusted or pitting 9. Inadequate chimney height 10. Creosote buildup 11. Excessive offset from vertical 12. Not continuous through roof 13. Too many appliances on the flue 14. Adjacent chimneys of different heights
List 11 items that affect the amount of air conditioning needed in a home
1. Outdoor temperature 2. Outdoor humidity 3. Insulation level in the house 4. Single, Double, Triple pane windows 5. Whether windows are low 6. Whether window coverings are open 7. Amount of shading from trees 8. Roof overhang 9. Awnings or buildings nearby 10. Amount heat generated inside by people and equipment 11. Amount of east and west facing glass
List 7 common problems with service drops.
1. Overhead wires too low. 2. Damaged or frayed wires. 3. Trees or vines interfering with wires. 4. Wires too close to doors or windows. 5. Wires not well-secured to the house. 6. Poor connection between service drop and service entrance. 7. Inadequate clearance from roofs.
List 2 functions of the drip loop.
1. Prevents water entry into the conduit or service entrance conductors. 2. Shows that the service drop wires are not straining the splices.
List the three main functions of roofs.
1. Protect the building from rain, snow, wind, hail, and fire. 2. Support some of the mechanical equipment for the house. 3. Make an archetectural statement.
List 3 main functions of exterior cladding.
1. Protect the structure from water. 2. Provide reasonable security. 3. Enhance the appearance of the house.
Give a one-sentence example of each of these components.
1. Scope--the inspections was done according to the ASHI Standards. 2. Descriptions--the roofing material is asphalt shingles. 3. Conditions or evaluations--the water heater is leaking. 4. Causes of conditions--the wet basement is the result of the leaking gutters and downspouts. 5. Implications--the uneven stairs are a trip hazard.
List 6 installation mistakes on modified bitumen roofs.
1. Seams facing up the slope. 2. Inadequate overlap of seams. 3. End seams not staggered. 4. Inadequate fastening of the membrane to the decking. 5. Poor sealing at seams and flashings. 6. Inadequate drainage.
List 5 functions of roof framing members.
1. carry live loads of wind, rain, snow and people 2. carry dead loads of roof sheathing, covering, and equipment. 3. support dead loads of insulation and ceiling finishes. 4. laterally support building walls. 5. create an attic space, ventilation space, and support for soffits and fascia.
List 25 common chimney problems
1. Settling or leaning 2. Racking 3. Spalling masonry or concrete 4. Loose, missing or deteriorating masonry 5. Loose, missing or deteriorating mortar 6. Efflorescence 7. Excessive offset from vertical 8. Chimney too short 9. Cleanout door to close to combustibles, loose or missing 10. No liner 11. Cracked or broken liner 12. Incomplete liner 13. Inadequate clearance from combustibles 14. Fire stopping missing or incomplete 15. Cap missing 16. Cap Cracked 17. Improper slope on cap 18. No drip edge on cap 19. Creosote buildup in flues 20. Flue obstructed 21. Draft inducer fan inoperative 22. Chimney extender rusted or stuck 23. Too many appliances on flue 24. Abandoned opening for flue connections 25. Undersized screen on spark arrester
List 9 Characteristics of a good chimney
1. Should adequately remove combustion products from the house. 2. Should prevent poison gas from entering the house 3. Minimize the heat loss from the building 4. Should keep water, birds, animals, and pests out of the house 5. Should adequately support their own weight as well as live loads 6. Adequately control the fire 7. Enhance appliance draft 8. Control the fire in the house 9. Keep water out of the house
List four types of electrical heating
1. Space heaters 2. Furnaces 3. Boilers 4. Radiant heating
List 6 implications of chimneys settling or leaning
1. Structural failure 2. Fire hazard 3. Exhaust gas entry into house 4. Water leakage into house 5. Damaged or blocked flues 6. High maintenance and reduced durability of the chimney and adjacent house components
List 5 implications of a cracked chimney
1. Structural instability 2. Fire hazard 3. Exhaust gas entry into house 4. Moisture entry 5. Increased maintenance and reduced durability
List 12 locations for possible cross connections in a residence.
1. Supply faucets below the flood rim of fixtures 2. Drain connections from dishwashers 3. Drain connections from clothes washers 4. Water softeners 5. Outside house bibbs with hoses attached 6. Lawn sprinkler system 7. Bidets 8. Vegetable sprayers and extendable faucets at kitchen sinks 9. Shower wands on bathtubs 10. Toilets 11. Supply connections to heating boilers 12. Trap primers
List 4 reasons written reports are needed.
1. The Standards require it. 2. To help the client. 3. To control liability. 4. Marketing tool.
Describe how knob and tube wiring is visibly different from modern cable.
1. The black and white wires are separate and run in pairs. 2. Ceramic tubes protect the wire as it runs through joists or studs. 3. Ceramic knobs are used where wire changes direction.
What are the drawbacks to adding a second layer of roofing over a first?
1. The dead load is increased. 2. Nails may not be long enough to penetrate to the roof sheathing. 3. Old flashings may not be replaced. 4. The roof sheathing can't be properly inspected. 5. Roofing materials may not dry properly.
List 7 possible causes of leaking condensate drip pans
1. The pan may be cracked, or have an open seam in it 2. The opening to the drain line may be obstructed 3. The drain line may be missing or disconnected 4. The pan may not be sloped properly allowing water to overflow rather than run to the drain 5. The pan may be rusted through 6. The pan may not be properly located below the coil 7. The pan may be filled with debris, restricting the amount of water it can hold
List 3 components of written reports.
1. Things unsafe, inoperative, or near the end of their lives. 2. The implications of the deficiencies. 3. The recommendations. 4. What things were not inspected and why.
List seven common hearth problems
1. Too small 2. Gaps or cracks 3. Settled 4. Inappropriate material 5. Wood forms not removed 6. Too thin 7. Evidence of overheating
What are 2 structural functions of the floor system?
1. Transfer live and dead loads to the foundation. 2. Provide lateral support for foundation walls.
There are at least 20 common signs that basements have been wet or are vulnerable to wetness problems. See how many you can list.
1. Water or dampness on walls or floor 2. Efflorescence on walls or floor 3. Rot, stains or water marks on walls, doors, windows, basement stairs 4. Rust at baseboard nails, carpet tack strips, columns, appliances 5. Odors, mold 6. Rot 7. Loose floor tiles 8. Damaged basement storage 9. Storage off floor 10. Wall patches 11. Floor patches 12. Trough or trench around floor perimeter 13. Sump pumps operating continuously 14. Full sump 15. Two spare sump pumps 16. Auxiliary electric supply for pump 1 7. High water alarm on sump 18. Crumbling plaster, drywall or masonry 19. Peeling paint 20. Wall cracks with stains 21. Recent excavation 22. Evidence of drainage membrane 23. New dampproofing 24. Dehumidifier running constantly
List four common fuels that need chimneys
1. Wood 2. Oil 3. Gas 4. Propane
List 7 different things to evaluate with doors and windows.
1. appearance 2. condition 3. operability 4. security 5. energy 6. efficiency 7. comfort 8. water leakage
What things might you see that suggest patching has been done on a roof?
1. asphalt-based products on the roof surface 2. caulking 3. different roofing or flashing materials
What 2 inspection techniques can you use to inspect for sagging joists?
1. bounce on the deck 2. scan the deck with your eye at deck level
List 10 exterior wall surface materials that you'll commonly find.
1. brick 2. stone 3. concrete 4. stucco 5. EIFS 6. Metal and vinyl siding 7. asphalt shingles 8. wood siding 9. cement-based siding 10. clay and slate shingles 11. plywood, hardboard, and OSB 12. fiber-cement siding
List 4 things that can prevent joist twisting.
1. bridging 2. blocking 3. ceilings 4. strapping
List 7 common problems with metal and vinyl siding.
1. buckled or wavy 2. loose 3. flashing and caulking defects 4. mechanical damage 5. discolored 6. metal siding not grounded 7. rust
List 4 common expansion device problems.
1. capillary tube defect 2. thermostatic expansion valve connections loose 3. clogged orifice 4. expansion valve sticking
List 3 general types of report forms.
1. checklists 2. narrative 3. combination
List 5 common branch circuit wire problems.
1. damaged 2. not well secured 3. loose connections 4. open splices 5. wires too close to ducts, pipes, vents, chimneys, flues 6. wires too close to studs or joists 7. wires run through steel studs w/o protection 8. exposed wires on walls or ceilings 9. exposed wires in attic 10. cable used outdoors 11. buried cable not rated for buried use 12. household wire used as extension cord 13. undersized wire 14. abandoned wire
List 12 common lighting problems found in houses.
1. damaged or loose 2. overheating 3. poor stairway lighting 4. conventional lights used in wet areas 5. improper recessed lights 6. improper closet lighting 7. isolating links needed on pull chains
List 5 problems to look for on a typical sectional garage door.
1. difficult to open or close 2. rot or insect damage 3. paint or stain problems 4. rust or denting 5. automatic opener problems
List 3 advantages of downspouts discharging above grade.
1. easy to repair or replace 2. easy to know if they are working properly 3. with a proper extension the landscaping is not damaged
List 7 common problems with masonry walls.
1. efflorescence 2. spalling 3. cracking 4. mortar deterioration 5. missing weep holes and flashings 6. mechanical damage 7. bowing walls
List 10 areas outside to check for evidence of problems with an EIFS installation.
1. exposure 2. roof/wall connections 3. gutters 4. chimneys 5. door and window openings 6. openings for electrical conduit, lights, cable TV, etc. 7. vent openings 8. railing and deck connections 9. cracks, bulges, peeling, fungus, exposed mesh 10. evidence of repairs
Name 3 poor slate repair methods.
1. face nailing new slates 2. replacing slates with metal or other roofing materials. 3. covering the damaged area with asphalt.
List valley flashing installation problems.
1. flashing is cut too short at the eaves 2. base flashing is missing 3. exposed fasteners 4. uniform valley width 5. uncut points 6. excessive lengths of metal without joints 7. missing upstand (splash diverter) 8. shingles not sealed with asphalt at the valley 9. wood shakes and shingle joints are broken into the valley 10. closed cut valleys do not have the shingles trimmed back 2 inches. 11. individual shingles are used on a closed valley.
List 4 types of engineered wood products used for beams.
1. glulams 2. LVL: laminated veneer lumber 3. LSL: laminated strand lumber 4. PSL: parallel strand lumber
List 6 factors that may suggest concealed problems with an EIFS application.
1. high wind exposure 2. high rainfall area 3. small or no overhang 4. lots of penetrations 5. attention to detail at openings is poor 6. horizontal stucco surfaces 7. poor caulking maintenance
List 3 causes of problems that are unique to EIFS compared to conventional stucco.
1. lack of building paper 2. no drainage plane 3. poor drying potential
Two ways to attach a ledger board to wood-frame structure are:
1. lag bolts every 24 inches 2. multiple nails every 16 to 24 inches
List 5 common refrigerant line problems
1. leaking 2. damage 3. missing insulation 4. lines too warm or cold 5. lines touching each other
List 10 general exclusions to home inspection.
1. life expectancy 2. causes of conditions 3. methods, materials, or costs of correction 4. suitability of property for specialized use 5. compliance with regulations
List 4 common problems with soffits and fascia.
1. loose or missing pieces 2. rot 3. physical damage 4. paint or stain needed
List 3 common problems with modern fiber-cement shingles.
1. mechanical damage 2. missing paint or caulking 3. nailing problems
List 5 destinations where ground wires can terminate.
1. metal water pipes 2. metal rods driven into the ground 3. wires buried in the footings (UFER ground) 4. buried grounding plates or rings 5. frame of metal buildings 6. metal well casings
List 7 problems found with vents.
1. missing 2. ineffective/incomplete 3. poor vent pipe arrangements 4. too small or too long 5. island venting problems 6. vent termination problems 7. automatic air vents
List 12 common column problems
1. missing 2. settled 3. crushed 4. leaning 5. buckled 6. rust 7. poorly secured at top or bottom 8. mortar deterioration 9. spalling concrete or brick 10. mechanical damage 11. rot or insect damage 12. heaved
List 6 common problems with caulking, trim, and flashings.
1. missing flashings 2. ineffective or incomplete flashings 3. loose 4. rust 5. rot 6. caulking missing or ineffective
List 2 areas in basements or crawlspaces to check for evidence of problems with EIFS installations.
1. mold, mildew or rot joists, sills, rim joists, and subflooring 2. stains on foundations coming from sill area
List four common problems found only with breakers.
1. multi-wire circuits not linked. 2. too many breakers 3. wrong breaker in panel 4. loose breakers
List 6 common evaporator problems.
1. no access to coil 2. dirty 3. frost 4. top of evaporator dry 5. corrosion 6. damage
List common problems found with grounding systems.
1. no ground 2. ground wire attached to plastic pipe 3. ground wire after meter and valves with no jumper. 4. spliced ground wire 5. poor connection 6. ground connection not accessible 7. ground rod cut off 8. corroded ground rod 9. undersized ground wire 10. neutral bonded to ground wire after service box 11. neutral not bonded to ground wire at service box 12. service box not grounded to ground wire 13. no ground in sub-panel feeder wires
List 14 conditions that may be found in all panels.
1. obsolete/fused neutrals 2. damaged panel or components 3. loose or missing door 4. openings in panel 5. panel too small 6. overheating 7. rust or water in panel 8. circuits not labeled 9. panel crowded 10. poor access 11. upside down 12. not suitable for aluminum wiring 13. poor location 14. exterior panel not weather tight
Name 5 engineered wood products that may replace conventional joists.
1. trusses 2. plywood 3. wood I-joists 4. LVL 5. PSL 6. LSL
List 13 things inspectors are not required to do as part of an inspection.
1. offer service contrary to law 2. offer warranties or guarantees 3. offer engineering, architectural, plumbing, or any other job function. 4. calculate the strength or efficiency of a system 5. enter areas or do anything that may damage the property or be dangerous. 6. operate systems that are shut down.
List 9 common roof problems.
1. old 2. damaged 3. patched 4. missing materials 5. exposed fasteners 6. poor installation 7. vulnerable areas 8. ice dam potential 9. multiple layers
List 2 delivery options for providing the report.
1. on-site reports 2. reports sent after the inspection
Give 3 examples of where flashings would typically be found on exterior walls.
1. over windows and doors 2. at bottoms of walls 3. at horizontal siding joints in panel type siding
List 5 differences between a bearing wall and a partition wall.
1. partition walls have no structural elements below. 2. load bearing walls rest on foundations, beams, or another wall system. 3. ends of floor or ceiling joists rest on load bearing walls. 4. load bearing walls often have a wall directly above. 5. door openings in load bearing walls have headers, Partition wall doors don't need headers.
List common conditions you might find in a service box.
1. poor access or location 2. loose 3. rust or water in box 4. unprotected opening 5. damaged parts 6. overheating 7. incorrect fuse or breaker size; box rating too small 8. service entrance wires exposed in house 9. poor connections 10. illegal taps 11. neutral wire by-passes service box 12. fused neutral wire 13. fuses upstream of disconnect switch 14. obsolete box 15. exterior box not weather-tight 16. box not rated for aluminum
List 3 functions of weep screed.
1. provide a finishing edge 2. allow drainage 3. prevent water from being drawn up into wall
List 3 mechanisms by which water may get into wall systems from the building exterior.
1. rain driven by wind 2. rain running down the wall 3. water wicking into the wall
What elements over and above the 10 you have listed might be included in home inspection reports?
1. report summary 2. client questionnaire 3. maintenance tips 4. filing systems 5. life cycle and cost estimates (None of these are required by the Standards)
List 5 common problems with conventional wood siding (boards, shingles, or shakes).
1. rot 2. splitting 3. warping 4. paint/stain problems 5. loose
List 4 common problems with plywood, OSB, and hardboard.
1. rot, swelling, delamination 2. buckling or cracking 3. loose 4. mechanical damage
What are 6 common problems on metal roofs?
1. rust 2. fastener failure 3. loose or missing shingles or flashing details 4. installation problems 5. dents 6. buckling
List 10 common components of the body of the report.
1. scope/contract 2. descriptions 3. conditions or evaluations 4. causes of conditions 5. implications of conditions 6. recommended actions 7. limitations 8. life expectancy 9. priorities 10. ballpark costs
List 6 problems found with wires in panels.
1. sheathing not removed. 2. overheating 3. loose connections 4. damaged 5. not well secured 6. wires crossing bus bars 7. abandoned wires in the panel
Give at least 2 implications of a ponding roof.
1. shortened life expectancy 2. roof sag 3. vegetation growth on roof 4. large volume of water available to leak into the building.
Name four causes of cracks in foundation walls.
1. shrinkage 2. differential settling 3. heaving 4. horizontal forces
Why are rotted sills a problem? (3 reasons)
1. sill can be more easily crushed leading to differential settlement. 2. can lead to rotted joists and studs. 3. means the house frame is not well anchored to the foundation.
List five common sill problems.
1. sills below grade 2. rot or insect damage 3. gaps between sill and foundation 4. crushed sills 5. not properly anchored 6. missing
Give 4 reasons for slate roof failure.
1. slate wears out 2. fasteners or flashing wears out 3. slates are mechanically damaged 4. poor installation
List 5 areas on the interior to check for evidence of problems with EIFS installations.
1. stains on walls, floors, and ceilings 2. rusting or rotting carpet tack strip 3. peeling paint 4. damaged flooring 5. elevated moisture levels in drywall or subflooring
What caused the problem? List at least 3 things.
1. tends to creep out from under terminal screws 2. forms corrosion that is an electrical hazard 3. is softer than copper and easy to damage 4. some of the early material was of low quality and prone to breaking.
List 3 methods for securing wire ends.
1. terminal screws 2. push-in connectors 3. solderless connectors
What are the two methods of rating a water heater?
1. the volume of water it can hold 2. the size of the burner
Give at least 3 typical valley flashing conditions.
1. torn or worn 2. rusted 3. patched 4. installation problems
List 3 disadvantages of downspouts discharging into drains below grade.
1. tough to inspect 2. repair is expensive 3. they may go into the floor drain on old houses which can flood the basement if the drain isn't functioning properly.
List 3 disadvantages of downspouts discharging above grade.
1. traffic problems at building corners 2. must be moved or lifted to cut grass 3. in drainage is poor, water can pool near the house
List 7 functions of walls.
1. transfer loads to the flooring or foundation system. 2. resist racking 3. support interior and exterior finishes 4. hide electrical and mechanical systems 5. accommodate insulation 6. provide sound insulation 7. provide privacy
What are the risks associated with an improperly draining walkway?
1. trip hazards--ice or moss 2. surface damage to the material itself 3. water penetration into the building if the surface is against the house.
List 6 possible joist hanger problems.
1. undersized 2. inadequate nails 3. wrong type of nails 4. joist not bottomed in hanger 5. joist doesn't penetrate fully into hanger 6. joist connected to beam at other than 90 degrees 7. double joists connected to beam with single joist hanger.
List 6 common problems that are found on all types of wall systems.
1. water penetration 2. too close to ground 3. too close to roof surface at the bottom of the siding 4. planters and gardens against the wall. 5. vines
3 possible implications of poor lot grading are:
1. wet basement and crawlspace 2. damage to foundation 3. damage to siding materials
What is the minimum size trap for a bidget?
1.25 in
End bearing for headers in wood frame walls should be at least ______ inches.
1.5 inches
Joists typically need ____ inches of end bearing when supported by wood.
1.5 inches
Proper end bearing is required for rafters and ceiling joists. Generally speaking, what is the minimum recommended end bearing?
1.5 inches on wood and 3 inches on masonry
toilet max gallons per flushing cycle is _________ G
1.6
What are the 3 components required on the discharge line from a sewage ejector pump?
1.A Union 2.A check valve 3. A gate valve
List three common configurations of evaporator coils
1.A coil 2.Slab Coil 3. Vertical coil
Describe in two sentences each, two types of hose bibbs.
1.A stop and waste valve prevents water from sitting where the pipe will freeze by isolating the through wall section of pipe and draining the trapped water out through the waste valve 2.A frost proof valve prevents water from sitting where the pipe will freeze by having the valve body remote from the hose bibb, and a slope to drain to the exterior
List 3 types of faucet related noises.
1.Bang 2. Chatter 3. Whistle
List four condenser problems
1.Dirty 2. Damaged or leaking 3.Corrosion 4.Dryer or water heater exhaust too close
List two methods of reducing the freezing risk of pipes in a cold environment
1.Insulating the pipe 2.Wrapping the pipe with heating cable
list 2 types of wood burning fireplaces
1.Masonry fireplaces 2. Factory built fireplaces
List four types of traps that are not permitted in residential construction
1.S-Trap 2.Drum Trap 3.Bell Trap 4.Crown vented trap
List 3 common leak locations in a two-piece toilet.
1.The bowl 2.The tank 3. The seal
What is the purpose of a trap on a condensate drain line?
1.The trap may be required if the condensate pan is upstream of the house air fan because the water is under negative pressure 2. If the condensate is allowed directly into waste plumbing, a trap is required
list two possible cross connections at basins and sinks
1.Vegetable sprayer left lying in a sink 2.Extendable faucets
The supply water piping diameter inside houses should be at least
1/2 inch
Why might a drywall ceiling sag below trusses?
1/2 inch drywall can't span 24 inches between trusses without sagging, especially if the drywall has been damaged by moisture.
What is the required slope for nearly horizontal pipes in a drain, waste and vent system?
1/4 inch to 1/2 inch fall per foot run
slope in tub is min of ______ in and a max of ________ in toward the drain
1/4, 1/2
When a vent terminates less than 2 feet above a window, what is the minimum horizontal distance required to the window opening?
10 feet
On a 10-year old house, how old would you expect the roof to be?
10 years old
Vent terminals extending through the wall shall terminate not less then __________ feet from the lot line and ______ feet above the highest grade within ______ feet horizontally of the vent terminal.
10,10,10
What is the recommended horizontal spacing of supports for galvanized steel piping?
10-12 Feet
What are common sizes for electrical furnaces?
10-30 Kilowatt
the laundry tub may drain to standpipe within _____ in
30
An inspector is in a garage inspecting a water heater. he sees that the water heater is installed 18 in above the gage floor, has a galvanized pan under it , it is piped to the outside of the dwelling. He is looking for a combustion opening. There is an attic above the compartment of the water heater and an access door from the garage to the water heater. Where are these openings to be located?
2 openings, one within 12 in of the top, one within 12 in of the bottom of the confined space.
In general, which crack would be more serious? A crack that has moved in 1 plane or a crack that has moved in 2 or more planes?
2 or more planes.
How far should combustibles far from an outside combustion air inlet duct?
2 to 9 inches
What does the term "double tap" mean?
2 wires are connected to a single terminal.
Roughly how far can these common joists span if spaced 16 inches apart? 2 x 8 2 x 10 2 x 12
2 x 8: 11.5 feet 2 x 10: 14 feet 2 x 12: 16 feet
Traps shall have a liquid seal of no less then ______ in and no more then ________ in
2,4
Curbs for showers must be a min of ____ in high and a max of ________ in high
2,9
A common minimum firebox depth requirement is _________ inches
20
What is the normal setting of a high temperature limit for an electric furnace?
200 degrees
The shower door is required to open outward and has to be a minimum of _______ in wide
22
What is the minimum entrance width for shower stalls?
22 inches
Gas meter (UMC) has a minimum access opening of ______ by _______
22x24
What is the typical maximum distance between the fixture and the trap?
24 Inches
The minimum clearance in front of the shower opening is ________
24 in
The vertical distance of a trap shall not exceed __________ in and the horizontal distance shall not exceed ________ in from the fixture.
24,30
Roughly 999 out of 1000 houses have _________ volts available.
240
How many wires would you typically find in a 240-volt service drop?
3
Roughly 999 out of 1000 houses have __________ service entrance wires.
3
Minimum dimensions for landings are often stated as ___________ feet by ____________ feet.
3 feet
When a steep roof drains onto a flat roof, the flat roof membrane should extend about _____ feet up under the steep roofing shingles or tiles.
3 feet.
The ends of beams should have at least _____ inches of bearing.
3 inches
What is the requirement for beam end bearing on masonry?
3 inches
The diameter of a garage drain exit pipe should be at least ___________ inches.
3 inches.
A good concrete garage floor is usually ___________ inches thick and has ____________ inches of gravel beneath it.
3" thick with 5" of well compacted gravel.
What would 4 wires mean?
3-phase electricity
Dishwasher drain hose minimum of ______ in and fastened to underside of counter
3/4
The minimum size pipe used from the water main to the house is ______ in
3/4
the minimum water service pipe size is _________ in
3/4
What is the typical minimum diameter of water service piping in modern construction?
3/4 Inch
The nosing is usually ___________ inches deep.
3/4" to 1 1/4"
An open vent terminal from a drainage system shall not be located less then ___________ feet directly beneath a door, window or air intake of the building , nor shall any such vent terminal be within ______ feet horizontally of such an opening unless it is not less then ______ feet above the top of such opening
4,10,3
The static water pressure at the building entrance for either public or private water service shall be not less than _______ psi
40
What is the largest single-phase service that you are likely to find in a home?
400 amps
How many square feet can 1 ton of air conditioning cool in Florida?
450-700
Any roof that still has water on it ______ hours after a rain is defined as a "ponding" roof.
48
Metal chimneys that extend more than ____ feet above the roof should be laterally supported.
5
Timers or electrically operated switches on hydro therapy equipment must be located a minimum of __________ feet from the tub deck
5
where the shut off valve is installed in the manifold such shut off valve will be located within _________ feet of the appliance served
50
What is the typical temperature rise on an electric furnace?
50-60 degrees
A dry vent shall rise vertically to not less then ________ in above the flood level rim of the highest trap or trapped fixture being vented.
6
A vent must terminate a minimum of ______ in above the roof
6
A gas shutoff valve for an appliance shall be located in the same room as the appliance, with a maximum distance of ________ between the valve and the appliance
6 feet
A range and domestic clothes dryer connectors, appliance fuel connectors shall have a maximum overall length of ?
6 feet
What is the maximum length of a gas line that connects to a gas appliance?
6 ft
How far should combustibles be from cleanout doors?
6 inches
How far should combustibles be from fireplace openings?
6 inches
How far should wood siding be kept above grade?
6 inches
The top of the gravel in a window well should be _________ inches away from the window frame.
6 inches
What is the minimum height of vent pipe above the roofline?
6 inches
What is the commonly recommended slope for ground around a house?
6" drop over the first 10 feet away from the foundation
Stack type air admittance valves shall be located not less then __________ in above the flood level rim of the highest fixture being vented, and shall be installed not less then _______ in above insulation materials when installed in an attic.
6,6
What is the recommended horizontal spacing of supports for copper piping?
6-10 feet
Where does the discharge tube from the temperature/pressure relief valve have to dump water in a cold climate?
6-12 inches above the floor beside the hot water tank
Where does the temperature/pressure relief valve have to discharge water in a warm climate?
6-24 inches above grade level outside the house
Give a one-sentence example of each of these components.
6. Recommended actions--the 30 amp fuses should be replaced with 15 amp fuses. 7. Limitations--no access was gained to the crawlspace. 8. Life expectancy--replacement of the roof covering will probably be necessary within the next 3 to 6 years. 9. Priorities--the open electrical box should be provided with a cover immediately and the service should be upgraded to 200 amps within the next year. 10. Ball park--furnace replacement may cost $1500-$2500.
List 10 general exclusions to home inspection.
6. market value 7. advisability of purchase 8. components or systems not observed 9. presence of pests, including insects 10. cosmetic items, underground items, or items not permanently installed.
You should not operate the heat pump in the cooling mode when the outdoor temperature is above _________ degrees?
65
You should not operate the heat pump in the heating mode when the outdoor temperature is above ________ degrees?
65
List 13 things inspectors are not required to do as part of an inspection.
7. operate systems that don't respond to normal controls 8. disturb insulation 9. move personal contents, equipment, snow, soil, plants, etc. 10. determine the presence of hazardous substances 11. evaluate effectiveness of systems that control hazardous substances 12. predict future conditions 13. provide operating costs 14. evaluate acoustical characteristics of components
What is the approximate temperature rise in residential water heaters?
70 Degrees
How many square feet can 1 don of air conditioning cool in Michigan?
700-1000
Nonabsorbent surface material is required to be _______ in above the floor in a shower.
72
Individual lines to outside lights, grills or other appliances shall be installed a minimum of ______ in below finished grade.
8
How long do air conditioning compressors typically last in your area?
8-10 years southern USA 10-15 years Moderate climates 15-20 years Northern climates
if the static water pressure exceeds __________ psi an approved pressure reducing valve will be installed to help regulate pressure at the main
80
Supply water pressure inside the house should not exceed
80 psi
Shower area must not be less then _______ sq in and _____ in circular, and _____________in high
900,30,70
In one sentence, describe the function of a thermostatic valve.
A TXV, or TEV acts as a more precise expansion device on larger air conditioners or heat pumps.
Briefly describe a common foundation drainage material.
A black plastic dimpled membrane that acts to relieve hydrostatic pressure in the soil.
What is an ice dam?
A buildup of ice at the bottom of the roof.
On a roof truss, what is the difference between a chord and a web?
A chord is part of the perimeter of the truss. Webs are the internal members.
Describe a cold joint as it relates to a concrete foundation.
A cold joint is formed when a foundation is poured at 2 separate times. At the intersection, a cold joint is created.
What is a kickout?
A flashing used where a wall extends beyond a roof, to shed roof water away from the stucco.
how do the two methods (Volume of water a tank can hold, and the size of the burner) of rating a water heater relate to each other?
A large burner means a high recovery rate, which allows a smaller tank to be installed.
Briefly describe water hammer, and why it occurs.
A loud banging sound in the pipes. Water moving at several feet per second has to stop when a valve is turned off. Water bounces off the valve and creates a vacuum as it bounces away from the valve. The vacuum violently draws the water back to the valve where it bounces off again.
Why can a minor leak be more of a problem than a major one?
A minor leak can cause considerable damage before it is noticed.
Define 'inspector' within the context of the Standards of Practice.
A person hired to examine and system or component of a building, in accordance with these Standards of Practice.
What is the difference between a pilaster and a pier?
A pilaster is a thickening of a foundation wall to accommodate the concentrated load of a beam or column. A pier is a stand-alone structural member that can be thought of as a column sunk into the ground.
Briefly describe a cross connection.
A piping arrangement in which waste can back up into the supply piping and contaminate it when the pressure drops on the supply side.
What is the purpose of a pitch pocket?
A pitch pocket is used to flash irregularly shaped roof penetrations.
What is the difference between a strip footing and a pad footing and where would each be used?
A strip footing or spread footing is used under a foundation wall. A pad footing is used under a column. Pad footings distribute concentrated loads. Strip footings handle more evenly distributed loads.
Definition of a chimney?
A structure used to carry exhaust products safely out of the house
What is a sail switch?
A switch that protects the elements from overheating by making sure there is adequate airflow across them.
Describe the function of a trap
A trap prevents sewer gases from entering the house through the fixture drain outlet.
What is an evaporative cooler?
A unit that is a box shaped appliance with one or more porous surfaces that enable air to pass through a fan inside the unit, Pulls outside air through the sides and into the house
Explain briefly what is meant by a wet vent
A wet vent occurs when the drain for one fixture is serving as the vent for another
Typically, what is the exhaust pipe material for a fan assisted water heater
ABS or PVC piping
What part of metal chimneys often rust? (Give the location.)
Above the roof line
List two acceptable discharge points for condensate drain lines and one generally unacceptable discharge point
Acceptable 1. Outside the building directly into the ground 2. Near the basement floor drain (must be an air gap) Unacceptable 1. Into the granular fill beneath the basement floor slab 2. Into the waste plumbing stack
What is the purpose of a secondary scupper?
Act as an emergency drain in case the primary drains are obstructed.
When roof/sidewall flashing is installed, the wood siding can be used as the counter flashing. Why is it considered good practice to keep the siding slightly away from the roof surface? What is the recommended clearance?
Allows for ease of painting. Keeps end grain of wood siding materials from absorbing water and rotting. Recommended clearance is as much as 2 inches.
Why would you not want aluminum flashings on masonry?
Aluminum is not compatible with masonry.
What is an automatic air vent
An automatic air vent is a spring loaded device which allow air to be drawn in when the waste piping is under negative pressure, but will close waste piping is under positive pressure so water can not leak out
Explain why the absence of a landing may be a safety hazard.
An outward opening door can knock someone off the stairs.
If we only need a pressure relief valve because the water heater has some internal temperature control, where can the pressure relief valve be?
Anywhere on the tank, or on piping near the tank in some jurisdictions
Briefly describe the functions of arches and headers using the words "loads", "transfer", and "openings".
Arches and headers transfer dead and live loads from above around openings.
Spark arresters A) should be 1/4-inch screening or less. B) are installed at the bottom of most woodburning chimneys. C) are often built into rain caps on metal chimneys. D) are not permitted on masonry fireplaces.
Are often built into rain caps on metal chimneys
Where is rot most likely to occur on a wood frame flooring system?
Around plumbing fixtures, especially toilets
List the implication and inspection strategy for "CHIMNEY/VENT NOT WELL SUPPORTED" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Chimney section may fall off and cause damage or injury Check above the roof level to. Ensure that its stable
At what interval is vertical support required for copper piping?
At least every ten feet or every floor level
What is the minimum trap arm length?
At least two pipe diameters
Where is the burner located on gas- and oil-fired water heaters?
At the bottom of the tank
Where is the most common area of leakage on a flat roof?
At the flashings
Where should the floor drain be located?
At the low point of the floor
Why is wood contact with concrete near or below grade level discouraged?
Avoid moisture and possible rot.
B and L vents typically see temperatures at?
B vents-- 350 and are tested up to 500 degrees L vents-- 750-1000 degrees
List the implication and inspection strategy for "TOO MANY APPLIANCES ON ONE FLUE" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Backdrafting, Life safety issues Check the number of chimneys against the number of appliances
Why do many authorities discourage floor drains in garages?
Because automobile fluids can find their way into municipal sewers.
Why is an explosion with propane more likely than with natural gas?
Because propane is heavier than air, and can accumulate, especially in a low area
Which type of creosote is the more serious fire hazard? A) Black and shiny B) Dark brown and puffy
Black and Shiny
What is the difference between a knee wall and a purlin?
Both provide mid-point support for rafters. Knee walls transfer the loads down to ceiling joists and walls or beams below. Purlins act as beams running along the underside of rafters.
Briefly state the function of gutters and downspouts.
Carry water from the roof away from the building, protecting the cladding system and the foundation.
Why is water hammer more common in a house with cartridge faucets than with compression faucets?
Cartridge faucets can be opened and closed more quickly
What is a shrinkage crack and what causes it?
Caused by natural curing of concrete.
Ceiling joists are often not continuous from one side of the building to the other. In this case they are spliced over a central bearing wall. Why do they have to be securely tied together?
Ceiling joist help prevent rafters and the tops of walls from being pushed outward by the loads of the roof.
how do you determine if the evaporator cooler is the correct size for the home?
Check to see if the motor is 1 or two speed verify how many cubic feet of air per minute the cooler can pump and compare that against how many cubic feet the home is.
Give 2 examples of how you might differentiate between a roof leak and a condensation problem in an attic.
Condensation tends to be more uniform and widespread than leakage. Condensation is uniform laterally across the roof. Leaks tend to run down sloped roofs and follow gravity.
The function of a firebox is to_________
Contain the fire
What is the implication of a cross connection?
Contamination of a potable water supply
Heat pumps are generally sized based on the ?
Cooling load
Refrigerant lines are usually made of________?
Copper
What are two commonly used water service piping?
Copper, CPVC
What can cause copper gutters to develop pinhole leaks?
Corrosive action from leaves or needles from trees
List the implication and inspection strategy for "NOT CONTINIOUS THROUGH ROOF" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Creosote buildup, poor connections, leakage at joints Recommend further investigation
Whirlpool tub pump must be accessible and installed above the ___________ ____________ of the trap
Crown Weir
What does D,W,V stand for?
Dain piping, waste piping, vent piping
What is the typical flashing material for an EPDM single-ply roof?
EPDM
Asphalt-based roofing mastic should not be used for repairs on EPDM. Why?
EPDM is not compatible with asphalt products
Step flashing should be nailed to: the wall the roof both either
Either, but usually to the roof.
What type of water heater has the slowest recovery rate?
Electric water heater
What is the difference between a evaporative cooler and an air conditioner?
Evaporative coolers cool air by filtering it through water, thus lowering its temperature. Air conditioning works by taking the humidity out of the home
List the clues that a house may have had or be prone to ice damming.
Evidence of damage at wall-ceiling intersection. Stained siding near the soffits Leakage through windows. Etc.
A beam notched at the top is more likely to cause failure than one notched at the bottom. True or False?
False
A flashing is not required on the bottom edge of the chimney. True or False?
False
A fused 200-amp service has two 100-amp fuses in the service box. True or False?
False
A home inspection includes an analysis of the quality of chimney draw for a fireplace? True or False
False
What is the function of a footing? A foundation?
Footings transfer the live and dead loads of the building to the soil over a large enough area so that neither the soil nor the building will move. In areas where frost occurs, footings prevent frost from moving the building. Foundations transfer loads from the building to the footings. Foundations may also act as retaining walls, resisting lateral soil pressure, for example.
List the 3 common foundation configurations and footing types.
Foundation configurations: 1. basements 2. crawl spaces 3. slab-on-grade Footing types: 1. spread footings 2. pad footings 3. piles 4. piers
Put the words together that belong together. Hearth, Inner hearth, back hearth, Front Hearth, Outer hearth, Hearth extension
Front hearth---Back hearth Inner hearth---outer hearth Hearth--- Hearth extension
List as many stair problems as you can.
GENERAL: 1. Rot/water damage 2. Mechanical damage TREADS: 3. Excessive rise 4. Not uniform 5. Excessive nosing 6. Inadequate tread depth 7. Worn or damaged 8. Sloped 9. Loose or poorly supported STRINGERS: 10. Too small 11. Too thin 12. Excessive span between stringers 13. Pulling away from wall or treads 14. Inadequately secured to header 15. Stairwell width inadequate LANDINGS: 16. Headroom inadequate 17. Landings missing 18. Too small HANDRAILS: 19. Missing 20. Hard to grasp 21. Loose or damaged 22. Too low or too high GUARDRAILS: 23. Missing 24. Too low BALUSTERS: 25. Too far apart 26. Easy to climb 27. Loose or damaged 28. Missing
for other then steel piping, exposed piping must be labeled _______ in black letters on a yellow ribbon not less then ________ feet intervals, except when piping is in the same room as the appliance its supplying.
Gas, 5
L vents are typically used for which fuels?
Gas, propane and oil
Describe a test used to determine if the toilet connection to the drain piping is loose.
Grasp the bowl between your legs and try to move the bowl side to side, and front to back.(do not use excessive force)
Hydro therapy tubs and their associated electrical components must be served by a dedicated circuit which is protected by a ?
Ground fault circuit interruption device
Why shouldn't you align a beam with a gutter to check for sag?
Gutters slope so they always look off level.
Which of the following is not a common problem with an air conditioner compressor? Out of level Excess noise or vibration Short cycling or running continuously Overcooling the refrigerant in the condenser
Overcooling the refrigerant in the condenser
Is the service drop overhead or underground?
Overhead
What type of trap is allowed by most plumbing codes?
P-Trap
Why can plastic pipe not typically be used between units in shared dwellings?
Plastic pipes are a combustible material
List the implication and inspection strategy for "INADEQUATE CHIMNEY HEIGHT" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Poor draft Check chimney height
List the implication and inspection strategy for "EXCESSIVE OFFSET FROM VERTICAL" as pertains to chimney vent problems
Poor draft Follow chimney flue and watch for dramatic offsets
What are three things that go wrong with water supply?
Pressure or flow is insufficient, leaks and dirty water.
Explain why a ridge beam helps prevent rafter spread.
Rafters are less likely to spread because they hang on the ridge beam. With a simple ridge board, the rafters are not prevents from dropping at the ridge. A properly installed ridge beam prevents the rafters from dropping or spreading.
Describe a typical shrinkage crack.
Rarely more than 1/8 of an inch wide and typically do not involve displacement of the concrete on either side of the crack. Usually show up during the first year. Do not extend through the footings or up into the structure above. Shrinkage cracks often occur at stress points such as window openings.
State a simple solution to problems with a below-grade downspout pipe.
Redirect the downspout to discharge above grade with an extension away from the building.
If you are looking at a single-ply roof surface with a granular surface, what are some clues to differentiate modified bitumen from roll roofing?
Roll roofing often has nail heads that are exposed or covered with plastic cement and/or plastic cement along the seams. Roll roofing is typically not used for flashing. Modified bitumen is more flexible than roll roofing and will usually not break if folded. Roll roofing is usually 36" wide and modified bitumen is usually 39" (1 meter) wide.
What is the biggest problem with cantilevered decks?
Rot is found where the joists penetrate the wall.
EPDM is a type of : plastic / rubber.
Rubber
List one metal ceiling problem.
Rust
How might you tell the difference between roof sheathing sag and rafter sag from the exterior of the house?
Sagging rafters cause a dishing in the entire roof surface and/or a sag at the ridge. Sheathing sag is a repetitive pattern across the roof between rafters, trusses, or roof joists.
What conditions should you watch for with concrete tiles?
Same as #44 above.
Briefly describe the operation of a sequencer
Sequencers prevent all of the elements from coming on at the same time. A time delay of 30 seconds between elements allows the current flow to gradually build up.
The grounding systems are connected to the house neutral at the ___________.
Service box
What does a hollow sound on the garage floor indicate?
Settled soil under the slab--the slab is now suspended.
What would you tell a client about a retaining wall that was leaning over but not cracked, broken, or damaged?
Should be investigated by a specialist. It's impossible to tell from a single visit if the wall is in danger of collapse.
What is the function of a stop and waste valve?
Shuts off the water supply and allows the system plumbing to be drained.
What is the implication of a trap arm that is too long?
Siphoning of the trap
What is the fundamental difference in strategy between a flat roof surface and a sloped roof surface?
Sloped roofs shed water while flat roofs are watertight.
Why should metal siding be grounded?
So the house shell cannot become electrically charged.
Factory built chimneys are typically used for which types of fuels?
Solid Fuels
A soil pipe carries what type of waste?
Solid and liquid
Which line should be insulated
Suction AK Return line
Which line should be cold when the system is operating?
Suction line AKA return line (large insulated one)
Briefly describe a test to determine if the tiles in an enclosure are bonded well to the backer material
Tap or press on the tiles, looking for spongy areas or give in the tiles or tiles that sound loose or tinny.
What is the component that introduces cold water near the bottom of a gas fired water heater tank?
The Dip tube
Why are plywood or waferboard sheets poor choices for porch or deck flooring?
The absorb water readily and rot.
why does it matter if the tub is slightly off level?
The apron is usually slopped slightly so that water will drain back into the tub, if the tub is not level water on the apron may drain away from the tub damaging walls or floors
What is the purpose of the asphalt and the felts in a built-up roof system?
The asphalt is the waterproofing material. The felt holds the asphalt in place, adds strength, distributes the forces and stabilizes the layers of asphalt.
In one sentence describe the function of a capillary tube
The capillary tube acts as an obstruction in the line, reducing the pressure and temperature of the liquid refrigerant
Why is it critical to document how the crawlspace was inspected?
The client must understand the limitations of the inspection. Crawls spaces can be troublesome and it is often difficult to do a thorough inspection.
Explain the problem with reverse polarity.
The collar of a light fixture may be energized, increasing the risk of electrical shock when changing a light bulb.
Which of the following is not a common problem with a condensate collection system on a split system air conditioner? The condensate goes into a 3/4 In drain pipe The pan is leaking The drain is blocked There is no trap
The condensate goes into a 3/4 in drain pipe
How would you identify aluminum wiring?
The conductor is silver colored. The sheathing usually has the word ALUMINUM, ALUM, or AL.
Polybutylene piping failures seem to be concentrated most at?
The crimp ring
Why are porous surface materials near a house a potential problem?
The earth below them may be impervious and slope toward the house.
What is the implication of driving nails or staples too deep?
The fasteners may drive right through the material and not hold them in place.
What is the purpose of the flood coat on a built-up roof?
The flood coat holds the gravel in place and provides some waterproofing.
What is meant by linking in multi-wire branch circuits.
The fuses or breakers for multi-wire branch circuits have to be shut off in pairs.
Why is it often difficult to identify flaws in the membrane of a built-up roof?
The gravel coating conceals the membrane.
What is the purpose of the gravel on a built-up roof?
The gravel provides ultraviolet protection for the roof.
What is the typical inlet and outlet temperature of air across the condenser fan?
The inlet temperature is outdoor air temperature, and outlet temperature is roughly 15-20 degrees F higher than the outdoor temperature
How does a ledger board support joists?
The ledger board is fastened ot the beam near the bottom and the joists rest on the top of the ledger board.
Why should open valleys widen at the bottom? (2 reasons)
The lower sections of the valley are exposed to more water than the upper sections. Valleys that widen are less likely to collect snow and ice.
What is the implication of not driving nails or staples deep enough?
The may sit proud and tear through the overlaying shingle. They may not be deep enough to hold the shingle in place.
What is a cantilever?
The member is supported at one end and partway along the length. One end is unsupported.
What is the implication of a panel that is too small for the service?
The panel may overheat
Often horizontal forces will cause horizontal cracks in a foundation wall. Why might the cracks disappear near the edge of the wall?
The perpendicular wall reinforces the cracked wall near the end, preventing it from moving.
Why are leaks more difficult to find in drain, waste, and vent systems than in supply systems?
The pipes are usually idle, and the water is not under pressure.
Outdoor cantilevers are particularly vulnerable to moisture damage. Where is the problem most likely to occur and why?
The problem is most likely to occur where the joists pass through the walls because this is the area that is likely to stay wet.
In both plank and panel roof sheathing, vertical joints should not run continuously up one rafter or one truss. Adjacent vertical joints should be staggered. Explain why.
The roof is stronger if the joints are staggered because the joints are weak spots in the roof panel.
Describe the characteristics of a well designed and well built smoke chamber
The sides and front of the chamber should slope and the back should be vertical
When a skylight is installed on a flat roof, an 8-inch high curb is built up for the skylight frame to sit on. Does the skylight frame go over the base flashing or does the base flashing extend up the sides of the skylight frame?
The skylight frame goes over the base flashing.
What is the pitch of the roof and how is it usually expressed?
The slope expressed as the ratio of the rise over the run.
What things suggest that slate is near the end of its life?
The surface of the slate may turn white or brown and may be soft or flake easily.
Explain why a toilet does not need a trap.
The toilet bowl itself is a trap.
What is a split receptacle?
The top part of the outlet is on one circuit and the bottom part on a different circuit.
Why are tile enclosures on exterior walls in cold climates more vulnerable than ones on interior walls?
The vapor barrier and insulation details are often poorly done, Condensation damage is common in this area, as warm house air leaks into the wall and vapor condenses in the cold exterior wall cavity
What are the functions of the three pipes connected to a sewage ejector pump?
The vent pipe vents sewer gases The discharge pipe handles the waste The drain pipe brings the waste into the pump
You see large metal plates or stars on teh outside masonry walls at the top of the first floor level of an older 2 story building. Why are these here?
These are usually tying the walls into the building and have been added as result of lack of lateral support.
Why might you install insulation on the back of a retaining wall and under the topsoil behind the wall?
This is done for frost control
How would you normally identify a leak in a refrigerant line visually?
This may be identified by an oil residue below the line set, typically at the valves or coil connections
Why is a check valve necessary when a sewage ejector is connected to municipal sewers?
This protects the ejector tank and house fixtures that feed the tank from backup of the municipal sewer system
How is a mixing valve used to stop a toilet sweating?
This valve mixes hot water with the cold water at the toilet supply. there is less incentive for condensation since the warmer water used to fill the toilet wont cool the surrounding air to the dewpoint.
How far should a masonry chimney extend above the roof?
Three feet minimum and two feet above anything within 10 feet.
Describe the location and shape of the throat, the smoke shelf and the smoke chamber
Throat-- Top of firebox below and at the damper Smoke shelf--area behind the damper that is nearly level Chamber--Sloping section of the fireplace above the damper and throat, but below the chimney flue
From the point where the ground and neutral wires connect, there are 2 paths to ground. What are they?
Through the neutral service wire or through the grounding electrode conductor to water pipes or ground rods.
Wood beams in pockets in masonry or concrete walls should have 1/2 inch of air space around the sides, top, and end. Why?
To avoid rot
What is the main function of sills?
To connect the top of the foundation to the wood floor system.
Which way should garage floors slope?
To drain (usually towards the door).
Briefly describe the purpose of a trap primer.
To ensure there is always water in a floor drain trap to prevent sewer odors entering the home.
What is the purpose of the venting system?
To equalize the pressure in the waste plumbing system so that the traps won't siphon.
What is the purpose of the sewer ejector pump?
To lift the waste from a toilet (and any other fixtures) below the public or private sewer line, up into the sewer. This type of pump is needed when waste cant flow by gravity to the sewer line
Why should there be no supply or return registers from heating/cooling ductwork in a garage?
To prevent fumes from entering the house.
What is the purpose of a trap?
To prevent sewer odors from entering the home through plumbing fixtures
Explain the purpose of a backward valve?
To protect the home against sewer backup
What is the purpose of a baffle or turbulator on a gas fired water heater?
To slow down the exhaust products as they move up through the water heater
What is the purpose of a high level alarm with a sewage ejector?
To warn the occupants that the sewage ejector pump has failed
Describe how a staged electric furnace would come on
When the thermostat calls for heat, only one or two elements will come on. if the thermostat continues to sense that the temperature is still dropping, the next element will start. Once the room temperature begins to rise, no more elements will come on.
Describe efflorescence. What is it?
Whitish powdery salt deposit. Water dissolves the salts from the masonry or mortar and then deposits them on the surface as crystals when evaporating.
What are the issues with running wire through steel studs?
Wires can be damaged by sharp edges on the steel studs. Wires passing through holes should be protected by grommets. Wires running parallel to studs should stand off the studs.
What are the implications of oversized breakers?
Wires can overheat without tripping the breakers.
How is a cross connection possible with a hose bibb?
With no backflow prevention device, outside water could be sucked into the plumbing system if the hose is attached and supply pressure drops below the atmospheric pressure
The foundation should extend far enough out of the ground that the wood members are not below grade. Explain why.
Wood members are prone to rot if they are below grade level.
Can dampers ever be at the top of the chimney?
Yes
Can ice damming be an issue on skylights?
Yes
Does a toilet bowl need a vent?
Yes
Is a fixture trap or a fixture with integral trap readily removable without disturbing concealed piping be an acceptable replacement for a cleanout?
Yes
Would you ever find a damper that was permanently open?
Yes, Where gas logs have been inserted
Can an outlet be protected by a GFI without it being apparent?
Yes, all outlets downstream of a GFI will be protected.
What is meant by "open splice"?
a connection that is not made inside a junction box
A grommet is ____________.
a fitting that protects a cable from the sharp edges of steel studs
Which of the following is a safety concern: a. a fuse that is too small. b. a fuse that is too big
a fuse that is too big
What tool is commonly used to inspect columns?
a level or plumb bob
What might a long stretch of new sod running from the house to the street indicate?
a new water or sewer line
Why should heat lamps not be located over doors?
a towel thrown over the door can be ignited by the heat lamp
What is used to keep soil away from a basement window?
a window well
What conditions are commonly found on these types of roofs: a. EPDM (7) b. PVC (10) c. metal (6)
a. old; open seams and flashings; cracks; punctures due to tenting; ponding; discoloration; patches. b. same as above plus: orange peeling; wrinkling; ridging or fish-mouthing; fastener problems; movement of roof projections. c. leaking; rust; bent or damaged; open seams; loose fasteners; failed caulking.
List clearances above ground, swimming pools, and roofs.
above roadway--18 ft. above driveway--12 ft. above flat roof--8 to 10 ft. above sloped roof--18 inches away from water in swimming pool--22.5 ft 3 ft. above sloped roof with pitch > 4 in 12 above walkway--10 ft.
If the vehicle door stops 2 inches short of the garage floor, there is a problem with the _____________.
adjustment of the closing limit
Which metal flashing material is not compatible with masonry mortar, according to some authorities?
aluminum
Offset bearing walls: (2) a. are an asset. b. are a serious structural problem. c. are common. d. often result in minor structural problems. e. must always be parallel to joists.
are common and often result in minor structural problems
Dramatic slope is likely less important if the ground surface is: sand or asphalt?
asphalt
Roll roofing is most similar to what other material we have discussed?
asphalt shingles
Where is condensation damage likely to be worst? a. above windows b. at the tops of walls c. at corners of walls d. at midpoints of walls e. at bottoms of walls
at bottoms of walls
Is it more common for a roof to leak at the flashings or at other areas in the roof surface?
at the flashings
Where are soffits and fascia typically found?
at the rafter ends
Columns transfer live and dead loads: a. from joists to footings b. from beams to footings c. from joists to soil directly d. from subfloors to joists e. from subfloors to footings
b
Nailing flashings to both the roof and the wall is: a. better because it holds the flashing securely. b. worse because it doesn't allow for movement of the wall and roof.
b
Which of the following is a safety issue: a. The main fuses have a lower rating than the service entrance wire. b. The main fuses have a higher rating than the service entrance wire. c. The service box has a higher rating than the service entrance wires. d. The service box has the same rating as the service entrance wires. e. The distribution panel has a larger rating than the service entrance wires.
b
Garage floors that are suspended and have storage or living space below: a. can be adequately assessed by a home inspector. b. should be investigated by a specialist.
b.
List the implication and inspection strategy for "NO CAP, WRONG CAP OR OBSTRUCTED CAP" as pertains to chimney vent problems
corroded flues, backdrafting, spars or embers igniting combustibles near the chimney Check for a cap and make sure that it is secure
What are the 3 parts of an asphalt shingle?
base material; asphalt layer; granule layer
Why are gutters and downspouts sometimes left off in northern areas?
because of ice damming problems
How may steel columns be fastened to steel beams? (3 ways)
bolts, welding, bendable tabs
Roofs intersecting walls above need flashings similar to ________________.
bottom chimney flashings
Longer studs are more susceptible than conventional length studs to ___________ and __________.
bowing and buckling
List 6 materials that may be used for masonry walls.
brick; stone; concrete block; cinder block; clay tile; glass block
Anything that restricts the drainage of water is a vulnerable area. Give as many examples as you can.
butterfly roofs; wide chimneys near the edge of the roof; skylights; drains from upper roof discharging onto lower roofs; changes in materials; asymmetric valleys; changes in slope; anything that obstructs drainage.
soil pipes
carry liquid and solid waste from a toilet
Stucco is made up of ___________, __________, and ___________.
cement, aggregate, and water
What is the implication of poor manifolding?
clogging of pipes
Access to water heaters located in an attic or underfloor crawl space is permitted to be through a _________ located in a sleeping room or bathroom where ventilation of those spaces is in accordance with code.
closet
Masonry walls are strongest in: a. compression b. tension c. bending
compression
Fasteners on hips and ridges should be mostly exposed / concealed.
concealed
Which column materials are susceptible to crushing?
concrete and wood
List several different materials that a foundation might be made of.
concrete; concrete block; cinder block; brick; clay tile; stone; wood
Why is condensation an issue in chimneys
condensation damages the masonry
Metal roofs are commonly made out of what materials?
copper stainless steel galvanized steel terne zinc aluminum
List 2 different branch wire materials you might see.
copper or aluminum
Which components are required by the Standards?
descriptions, conditions, and implications unless they are self-evident
Implications of an undersized service include: a. shock hazard b. fire hazard c. shock and fire hazard d. melting insulation e. nuisance tripping of the main fuses and breakers
e.
What are some of the causes of aging?
exposure to uv light; wind exposure; ventilation; pitch; complexity; foot traffic; concentrated water; tree branches; color
List at least 4 types of metal that have been used for flat roofing.
tin; terne; lead; zinc; copper; aluminum; galvanized steel; stainless steel.
Why should the end of the drain exit pipe in a driveway turn down?
to reduce the amount of debris that gets into the drain pipe.
The function of joists is to: (3) a. transfer live loads to beams. b. transfer dead loads to foundations. c. transfer live and dead loads directly to columns. d. transfer live loads to walls. e. transfer dead loads to subfloors.
transfer live loads to beams transfer dead loads to foundations transfer live loads to walls
2 other names for gutters. 3 other names for downspouts.
troughs, eavestroughs rain water leaders, leaders, conductor pipes
The larger line is called the return line. True or False?
true
How are lights tested?
turn them on and off by the switches
How many layers of wood shingles are typically used in a siding application?
two
What is the typical warranty period for a compressor?
typically 5 years
How are sills anchored to foundations?
typically bolted to the foundation.
Why should all risers in a set of steps be uniform?
uneven risers are a trip hazard
What is one possible disadvantage of diagonal plank subflooring?
unsupported edges may be springy
Describe how you would test a GFI receptacle during an inspection.
use a circuit tester and operate the test button on the receptacle
Roll roofing is commonly used in what flashing detail?
valley flashing
List 5 areas where flashings are found.
valleys; chimneys; pipes or stacks; roof/wall intersections; sloped roofs that intersect flat roofs; skylights; eaves; rakes; hips and ridges.
Give 5 techniques to help differentiate masonry veneer walls from solid masonry walls.
veneer walls have: 1. weep holes 2. wood studs behind the masonry 3. no header bricks 4. no masonry arches 5. a single wythe of bricks supported on a metal angle
There are 2 types of double glazing systems on skylights: hemetically sealed and _________.
ventilated
What is a secondary function of some ridge flashings?
ventilation of the roof space
In masonry veneer walls: a. the masonry is roughly 1 inch thick. b. the masonry is supported primarily by the wood framing. c. header courses are found every 7th row. d. weep holes are often found. e. metal ties are never used.
weep holes are often found
