Mixed Deck — All CHI Topics Flashcards

A home inspector identifies open step flashing where a roof plane meets a sidewall. What is the primary risk of this deficiency?

Answer: Water infiltration into the wall assembly and interior

Open or improperly lapped step flashing creates a direct pathway for wind-driven rain to enter the wall-to-roof junction and damage sheathing, insulation, and interior finishes.

During lease negotiations, a tenant requests a 'co-tenancy clause.' What protection does this provide?

Answer: Rent reduction rights if a key anchor tenant vacates the property

A co-tenancy clause allows tenants—especially retailers—to reduce rent or terminate the lease if an anchor tenant departs, reducing customer traffic.

What is the purpose of an anti-siphon valve (vacuum breaker) on an outdoor hose bib?

Answer: To prevent contaminated water from being drawn back into the potable supply

Vacuum breakers prevent backflow by stopping negative pressure from siphoning potentially contaminated water back into the drinking water supply.

An inspector observes that a sump pump discharge line exits the home and terminates 18 inches from the foundation. What should be recommended?

Answer: The discharge should be extended farther from the foundation to prevent water from re-entering

Discharging sump water too close to the foundation allows it to percolate back into the soil and re-enter the sump, creating a continuous pumping cycle and potential foundation moisture issues.

Which component of the HVAC system compresses refrigerant gas?

Answer: Compressor

The compressor is a vital part of the HVAC cycle that pressurizes refrigerant and helps move it through the system.

A home inspector reviewing a property for valuation purposes notices deferred maintenance. How does this typically affect market value?

Answer: It generally reduces market value due to anticipated repair costs

Deferred maintenance signals future repair costs to buyers and appraisers, typically resulting in a downward adjustment to market value.

During an HVAC inspection, the inspector notices the thermostat is set to 70°F but the system is not reaching that temperature on a mild day. What should the inspector check FIRST?

Answer: Air filter condition and return air restrictions

A clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of HVAC performance issues and should always be checked first before investigating mechanical components.

Which statement about the Fair Housing Act's exemption for single-family homes sold by the owner is accurate?

Answer: It only applies if the owner does not use a broker and does not use discriminatory advertising

The private sale exemption is narrow: no broker involvement and no discriminatory advertising are required for it to apply.

Which area of a home is MOST likely to have elevated radon concentrations?

Answer: Basement or lowest level in contact with soil

Radon, being a heavy gas that seeps from soil, accumulates most in basements and lowest occupied levels.

Which condition would MOST concern a home inspector regarding lead paint?

Answer: Deteriorating and peeling lead paint on windows and doors

Deteriorating, chipping, or peeling lead paint — especially on friction surfaces like windows and doors — creates hazardous dust and chips.

A home inspector wants to establish thought leadership in their local market. Which content marketing strategy is most effective for this goal?

Answer: Publishing educational blog posts and videos about common home defects

Educational content about common defects demonstrates expertise, builds trust, and positions the inspector as the go-to authority in their market.

What is the most significant structural concern when an inspector observes a crawl space with standing water under the floor framing?

Answer: Prolonged moisture exposure causes wood rot and deterioration of structural members over time

Persistent moisture in a crawl space accelerates wood decay and can also lead to termite infestation, both of which compromise the structural integrity of floor framing.

During a home inspection, you notice efflorescence on a basement wall. This MOST likely indicates:

Answer: Water is migrating through the masonry

Efflorescence is the white salt deposit left when water passes through masonry and evaporates, indicating moisture intrusion.

Which insulation installation method delivers loose material pneumatically through a hose into attic spaces or enclosed wall cavities?

Answer: Blown-in (loose-fill) installation

Blown-in or loose-fill insulation is delivered pneumatically, allowing it to fill irregular spaces and achieve uniform coverage in open attics or enclosed cavities where batts would be difficult to install.

When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Tenant Relations & Retention, what should a CHI professional prioritize?

Answer: Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation

Safety and ethics always take priority in Tenant Relations & Retention. When standard procedures don't adequately address a unique situation, consulting with experienced colleagues or supervisors ensures both safety and professional standards are maintained.

An inspector notices that a downspout discharges directly against the foundation wall. The BEST recommendation is to:

Answer: Extend the downspout at least 6 feet away from the foundation

Downspouts should discharge water at least 6 feet from the foundation, either via extensions or underground drains, to prevent foundation moisture problems.

Which federal law prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability?

Answer: The Fair Housing Act of 1968

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 is the primary federal law prohibiting discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing.

What is a 'lease abstract' and why is it important during due diligence on an investment property?

Answer: A condensed summary of key lease terms used for quick review and analysis

A lease abstract summarizes critical provisions—rent, term, options, and obligations—allowing investors and lenders to quickly assess lease risk without reading lengthy documents.

A home inspector finds a pressure relief valve (T&P valve) on a water heater that has been removed and capped off. This is:

Answer: A serious safety deficiency that could result in a catastrophic explosion

The T&P valve is the only safety device preventing a water heater from exploding under excessive pressure or temperature; disabling it is extremely dangerous.

When setting an advertising budget, which approach is most appropriate for a home inspector in a competitive metropolitan market?

Answer: Allocate a percentage of projected gross revenue and track ROI by campaign

Allocating a revenue percentage and tracking ROI allows for data-driven budget adjustments that maximize return and sustain competitive presence year-round.