Home Inspection Practice Test: Get Ready for Your Home Inspection Exam! (2024 Updated)

The Home Inspection Test is part of the Home Inspection certification program that provides knowledge in the realm of home safety and building science.

The topics covered in this test include building science, business operations, analysis, and reporting.

Good luck!

Home Inspection Test

Please wait while the activity loads.
If this activity does not load, try refreshing your browser. Also, this page requires javascript. Please visit using a browser with javascript enabled.

If loading fails, click here to try again

Congratulations - you have completed Home Inspection Test. You scored %%SCORE%% out of %%TOTAL%%. Your performance has been rated as %%RATING%%

Your answers are highlighted below.

Question 1

Please mark what SHOULDN'T be done in case of a gas leak, during an inspection:

A	Vacate the home
B	Indicate the problem in the inspection report
C	Continue with the inspection
D	Notify all parties and the appropriate authorities

Question 1 Explanation:

During an inspection in case of a gas leak, one shouldn't continue with the inspection.

Question 2

Please mark one of the following elements that is NOT required during a completion of a home inspection report:

A	Analysis of geological hazards
B	Comments on cosmetic features
C	An opinion of property location
D	All of the above

Question 2 Explanation:

None of the aforementioned elements is required during the completion of a home inspection report.

Question 3

Please mark the appropriate recommendation in a home inspection report regarding inadequate air ducts while inspecting an air conditioning system:

A	You should recommend undercutting all bedroom doors.
B	You should recommend installation of additional return air ducts, especially in bedrooms.
C	You should recommend installation of additional return air ducts, especially in bathrooms.
D	You should recommend installation of additional return air ducts, especially in bathrooms.

Question 3 Explanation:

The home inspection report should recommend installation of additional return air ducts, especially in bedrooms.

Question 4

Please mark what home inspectors are NOT required to describe during their inspection of unfinished spaces:

A	Ventilation
B	Insulation
C	Temperature
D	Vapor retarders

Question 4 Explanation:

Home inspectors are NOT required to describe the temperature when inspecting unfinished spaces.

Question 5

Please mark the element that does NOT require to be commented in the home inspection report regarding windows:

A	The absence of window panes
B	The absence of window screens
C	The condition of window screens
D	The condition of window treatments

Question 5 Explanation:

Window treatments do not require a comment in the home inspection report.

Question 6

Please mark what one's report should reflect regarding the absence of rain gutters when inspecting a home's interior:

A	There are no rain gutters.
B	The home's foundation is compromised and there is an absence of rain gutters.
C	The owner must install rain gutters.
D	The absence of rain gutters in a code violation.

Question 6 Explanation:

It should be noted that there are no rain gutters.

Question 7

Please mark the most adequate statement for a report made after the inspection of a vacant property:

A	Unable to determine the total condition of the electrical system at this time.
B	Pre-closing inspection is recommended.
C	The plumbing system is not available to inspect at this time.
D	Heating and cooling systems are dysfunctional at this time.

Question 7 Explanation:

The most adequate statement for this type of report is that the pre-closing inspection is recommended.

Question 8

Please mark the appropriate way of giving one's findings to a client after the completion of the home inspection:

A	In a written report
B	In a written report including photographs
C	Verbally and in a written report
D	Any of the above

Question 8 Explanation:

After the completion of the report, the findings may be given in any of the aforementioned ways.

Question 9

Please mark the element that SHOULDN'T be contained in the home inspection reports:

A	Remaining life expectancy of appliances
B	Status of the home as occupied or vacant
C	Address of the property inspected
D	Weather conditions at time of inspection

Question 9 Explanation:

Home inspection reports should contain all of these elements except the remaining life expectancy of appliances.

Question 10

Please mark the action that should be taken when rust inside the panel near the wires is noticed during the opening of an electrical service:

A	Nothing should be done as long as the rust is not on the grounding bar.
B	One should remove as much of the rust as possible regardless of its location.
C	One should describe the findings in their report and recommend an electrician examine the panel.
D	One should touch the wires to make sure they are safe to use.

Question 10 Explanation:

In this case, one should describe the findings in your report and recommend an electrician examine the panel.

Question 11

Please mark the most adequate description of this statement found in an inspection report: "Gutters are filled with leaves and debris. Remove debris to prevent roof damage."

A	A correct description of a relationship between components.
B	Incorrect description of a relationship between components.
C	Inappropriate suggestion for a remedy to correct a problem.
D	Appropriate suggestion for a remedy to correct a problem.

Question 11 Explanation:

This statement is an appropriate suggestion for a remedy to correct a problem.

Question 12

Please mark what does the acronym EIFS stand for:

A	Exterior insulation for security.
B	Exterior insulation and finish system.
C	Exterior installation of finishing system.
D	Exterior installation for security.

Question 12 Explanation:

EIFS stands for exterior insulation and finishes system.

Question 13

Please mark the action that SHOULDN'T be taken when one becomes aware of an electrical problem during the inspection of an electrical system:

A	One shouldn't identify the cause of the electrical problem.
B	One shouldn't make a note of the electrical problem in your report.
C	One shouldn't recommend the client contact a certified electrician.
D	One shouldn't take a picture of the problem area.

Question 13 Explanation:

In this case, one shouldn't identify the cause of the electrical problem.

Question 14

Please mark what SHOULD one's report reflect regarding a test for carbon monoxide accumulation while conducting a home inspection:

A	Equipment one used to perform the test
B	Findings of the test in each room tested
C	Recommendations if deficiencies are found
D	All of the above

Question 14 Explanation:

In this case, one's report should include the make and model of the carbon monoxide meter that one has used to test for carbon monoxide.

Question 15

Please mark the most appropriate way to respond if a one's client requests a "technically exhaustive" inspection:

A	One should prepare to perform an in-depth inspection of all systems and concealed components.
B	One should contact expert technicians to complete the in-depth inspections of systems.
C	One should explain that they're only able to perform a standard inspection.
D	One should ask what a "technically exhaustive" inspection is before one completes one.

Question 15 Explanation:

If one's client requests a "technically exhaustive" inspection, one should explain that they are only able to perform a standard inspection.

Question 16

Please mark what SHOULD be included in one's inspection report if one finds deficiencies during an inspection:

A	Summary of deficiencies with repair recommendations.
B	Summary of deficiencies with a recommendation to buy or sell.
C	Summary of deficiencies with commentary about the condition of the home.
D	Summary of deficiencies with a note the home did not pass inspection.

Question 16 Explanation:

In a case when one finds deficiencies during an inspection, their inspection report should include a summary of the deficiencies with repair recommendations.

Question 17

Please mark ONE of the following observations that should be included in a home inspection report:

A	Home is structurally sound.
B	The roof will last for at least another five years.
C	The electrical system is perfectly safe.
D	None of the above.

Question 17 Explanation:

None of the above observations should be included in a home inspection report.

Question 18

Why weather conditions should be noted on the inspection report?

A	Because inspections in cold weather do not last as long so they cost less.
B	Because accumulated snow or ice can prevent proper inspection of exterior components.
C	Because inspections in hot weather take longer and cost more.
D	Because accumulated rainwater can affect the soil around the foundation of a home.

Question 18 Explanation:

Weather conditions need to be noted on the inspection report is because accumulated snow or ice can prevent proper inspection of exterior components.

Question 19

Please mark what one SHOULD do if they are not able to inspect a particular component for some reason:

A	One should mark the item as "not inspected" on the report and provide an explanation.
B	One should mark the item as "failed" on the report and provide an explanation.
C	One should mark the item as "good" on the report and assume everything is fine.
D	One should leave the item blank on the report.

Question 19 Explanation:

If one is not able to inspect a particular component for some reason, they should mark the item as "not inspected" on the report and provide an explanation.

Question 20

Please mark the most appropriate way for one to address that during inspection they have noticed that the floorboards squeak throughout the home:

A	One should recommend wall-to-wall carpeting as a remedy.
B	One should recommend dehumidifiers in multiple rooms to eliminate water vapor.
C	One should make note of it but make no recommendation for repairs.
D	One should make note of it and recommend a structural engineer take a look at the home.

Question 20 Explanation:

In the report, one should make note of the case but make no recommendation for repairs.

Question 21

Please mark the label in a report of the following statement: "The basement is dry and is in good condition.":

A	Recommendation
B	Disclaimer
C	Description
D	Conclusion

Question 21 Explanation:

The statement "The basement is dry and is in good condition." is a conclusion.

Question 22

Please mark the most appropriate way for one to mark the finding of white bugs in the corner of a room during an inspection:

A	One should make note of observation and recommend to the client to hire a pest control expert.
B	One should make note of observation and recommend client find another property.
C	One shouldn't make note of observation since they are not a pest control expert.
D	One shouldn't make note of observation because it was just a few termites.

Question 22 Explanation:

The findings should be reported by making note of observation and recommending to the client to hire a pest control expert.

Question 23

Please mark the finding that SHOULDN'T be included in home inspection reports:

A	It's shouldn't be included when a component is defective.
B	It's shouldn't be included when a component is cosmetic.
C	It's shouldn't be included when a component is hazardous.
D	It's shouldn't be included when a component is not present.

Question 23 Explanation:

The report should include all of the aforementioned findings except when a component is cosmetic.

Question 24

Please mark the most appropriate way to respond when a client wants to know if the appliances are working properly:

A	If one does not inspect appliances, they should inform your client in advance.
B	If one does not inspect appliances, they should suggest the client get another inspector.
C	If you one inspects appliances, they should include their findings in the report.
D	Any of the above is an acceptable response.

Question 24 Explanation:

It is entirely up to the inspector to decide if they offer to inspect appliances to clients.

Question 25

Please mark the most appropriate way for one to address a case when ivy is taking over a part of an exterior wall of the home:

A	One should conclude it may damage the exterior wall.
B	One should conclude it may eventually decrease the home's value.
C	One should conclude it may affect the home's interior temperature.
D	One should conclude it may discolor the exterior wall.

Question 25 Explanation:

In this case, one should report that they conclude it may damage the exterior wall.

Question 26

Please mark the most appropriate response regarding the process of description of a siding of a home:

A	It looks to be about 25 years old and should be replaced.
B	It looks to be about 25 years old and needs to be repainted.
C	It is made of aluminum and has multiple missing nails.
D	It is made of aluminum and has been painted an ugly green.

Question 26 Explanation:

The most appropriate response is that it is It is made of aluminum and has multiple missing nails.

Question 27

Please mark ONE of the following that is NOT a recreational facility:

A	Swimming pool
B	Sauna
C	Steam bath
D	Walk-in shower

Question 27 Explanation:

A walk-in shower is not considered a recreational facility.

Question 28

Please mark one of the following actions that can cause a component to be unsafe during an inspection:

A	Damage to the component.
B	Improper installation of the component.
C	Deterioration of the component.
D	All of the above.

Question 28 Explanation:

A component can be unsafe for all of the aforementioned reasons.

Question 29

Please mark one of the elements which is NOT included in a standard home inspection:

A	Inspection of installed components and systems
B	Inspection of hidden components and systems
C	Inspection of visually observable components and systems
D	Inspection of readily accessible components and systems

Question 29 Explanation:

A standard home inspection does NOT include inspection of hidden components and systems.

Question 30

Please mark one of the following that should be included in a report if one notices a problem with a component or system during an inspection:

A	Recommendations to ignore the deficiency
B	Recommendations to correct the deficiency
C	Recommendations to monitor the deficiency
D	Both B and C.

Question 30 Explanation:

If one notices a problem with a component or system during an inspection, both B and C are acceptable recommendations.

Question 31

Please mark what does PEX stand for:

A	Polyethylene exchange
B	Polyvinyl exchange
C	Cross-linked polyethylene
D	Cross-linked polyvinyl

Question 31 Explanation:

PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene.

Question 32

Please mark one of these problems that ought to contain details in an inspection report:

A	Unsafe components or systems
B	The improper functioning of components or systems
C	Components or systems that are nearing the end of their service life
D	All of the above

Question 32 Explanation:

The inspection report must contain details on all of these problems.

Question 33

Please mark one of the following that needs to be inspected during one's inspection of a home's exterior:

A	Sheds
B	Docks
C	Fences
D	Carport

Question 33 Explanation:

During one's inspection of the home's exterior, they need to inspect the carport.

Question 34

Please mark the BEST answer that should be given if one's client asks whether their home, that they're expecting, is suitable for a home-based business:

A	"I believe it is convenient for the property."
B	"I am unable to determine the convenience of the property."
C	"I shouldn't be making a recommendation either way."
D	"You should find another type of home-based business."

Question 34 Explanation:

Home inspectors are not required to determine the suitability of a home, based on inspection results.

Question 35

Please mark the BEST answer regarding a case where one's client requires a specific response during an inspection whether their water pressure is enough for a family of four:

A	You should indicate that as long as they conserve water, it should be fine.
B	You should indicate you do not make determinations of adequacy for any component or system
C	You should indicate you are happy to make repairs to improve water pressure.
D	You should indicate the water pressure will only get worse over time.

Question 35 Explanation:

One should indicate that they do not make determinations of adequacy for any component or system.

Question 36

How should one respond in a case when their client, whose house one is inspecting is in a community with recently implemented ordinances pertaining to noise control, wants to know if the walls are soundproof enough to allow for social gatherings while still meeting ordinance requirements?

A	They should remind their client the inspection does not include determining compliance with ordinances.
B	They should recommend their client to hire a structural engineer to test the walls' soundproofing.
C	They should suggest their client to hire a soundproofing expert to renovate the walls in order to be compliant.
D	They should tell their client about a friend who specializes in soundproofing homes.

Question 36 Explanation:

In this case, one should remind their client the inspection does not include determining compliance with ordinances.

Question 37

Please mark the most adequate way for one to reflect the following information: One's client mentions he plans to flip the property after buying it and wants for the inspector to perform their inspection from the standpoint of determining value and marketability of the home.

A	The inspector provides the best estimate possible in their report.
B	The inspector has an appraiser review their report and gets an estimate for their report.
C	The inspector does not include any information on property value or marketability in their report.
D	The inspector talks to neighbors to determine local property values and includes an estimate in their report.

Question 37 Explanation:

The inspector shouldn't include any information on property value or marketability in their report.

Question 38

Please mark the types of warning devices that need to be discussed in an inspection report:

A	Carbon monoxide detectors
B	Smoke detectors
C	Security alarms
D	Only A and B
E	Only B and C

Question 38 Explanation:

The types of warning devices that need to be included in the inspection report are carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors.

Question 39

Please mark the components whose location need to be included in the home inspection reports:

A	Security alarm panel
B	Main water shut-off valve
C	Fuel shut-off valve
D	All of the above
E	Only B and C

Question 39 Explanation:

Home inspection reports need to nclude the location of the main water shut-off valve and fuel shut-off valve.

Question 40

Please mark the most adequate type of description of the findings that ought to be given in an inspection report if, during an inspection, one notices that the foundation walls have major cracks:

A	One should describe the cracks and indicate they can be repaired at minimal cost.
B	One should describe the cracks and suggest the client stay out of the basement.
C	One should describe the cracks and recommend the client hire a structural engineer.
D	One should describe the cracks and inform the client of the decrease in property value.

Question 40 Explanation:

In the inspection report, one should describe the cracks and recommend the client hire a structural engineer.

Question 41

Please mark the most adequate type of description in an inspection report if one notices a rusted heat exchanger during the inspection of the furnace:

A	One should describe their findings and submit the report.
B	One should describe their findings and recommend the furnace be replaced.
C	One should describe their findings and suggest the furnace not be used.
D	One should describe their findings and indicate the furnace is no longer effective.

Question 41 Explanation:

The proper way for this to be described in the inspection report is through a description of one's findings and a recommendation for the furnace be replaced.

Question 42

Please mark the expected service life of vinyl siding:

A	10 years in humid climates
B	15 years in cool climates
C	20 years in dry climates
D	25 years in all climates

Question 42 Explanation:

The expected service life of vinyl siding is 25 years in all climates.

Question 43

Please mark the most adequate description of a case of a bulging plaster on one of the living room walls:

A	Possible safety concern.
B	Problem with the installation.
C	Cosmetic problem with the wall.
D	A dilemma that requires an expert's opinion.

Question 43 Explanation:

The bulging plaster on one of the living room wall is a possible safety concern.

Question 44

Please mark the reason why one SHOULDN'T recommend copper gutters to their client after an inspection reveals the existing gutters to be pitted:

A	Pitted gutters are just fine.
B	Pitted gutters are a cosmetic problem.
C	It is not your place as an inspector.
D	It is not a good recommendation.

Question 44 Explanation:

One should not recommend copper gutters to their client after their inspection reveals the existing gutters to be pitted because it is not their place as an inspector.

Question 45

Should one provide a disclaimer if they include photos in their inspection report?

A	No. The photographs speak for themselves so a disclaimer is redundant.
B	No. The photographs are not required so any type of disclaimer is unnecessary.
C	Yes. The photographs should not be viewed critically since one is an amateur.
D	Yes. The photographs may not show all the deficiencies found during the inspection.

Question 45 Explanation:

If one includes photographs with their inspection report, they do need to provide a disclaimer.

Question 46

Please mark the most adequate description of "roof deck":

A	Trussing
B	Joisting
C	Sheathing
D	Shingling

Question 46 Explanation:

Roof deck can be described as sheathing.

Question 47

Please mark the one that needs to be inspected:

A	Driveways
B	Patios
C	Adjacent walkways
D	All of the above

Question 47 Explanation:

All of the above need to be inspected.

Question 48

Please mark the acceptable format for a home inspection report:

A	Narrative report only
B	Checklist report only
C	Narrative and checklist report
D	. Any of the above

Question 48 Explanation:

All of the above is an acceptable format for a home inspection report.

Question 49

Please mark the common tools used by home inspectors:

A	Marble
B	Flashlight
C	Awl
D	All of the above

Question 49 Explanation:

All of the above are common tools used by home inspectors.a

Question 50

Please mark the reason why home inspectors keep magnets on hand during inspections:

A	In order to make sure the surface of refrigerator doors work properly.
B	In order to verify mirrors in the home are authentic.
C	In order to test plumbing pipes for iron material.
D	In order to post notes for the owner.