Property Maintenance & Operations Flashcards
7 cards from real CHI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Property Maintenance & Operations flashcards as text
What does an inspector look for when checking a GFCI receptacle for proper operation?
Answer: Test button trips the outlet and Reset button restores power
A properly functioning GFCI will cut power when the Test button is pressed and restore it when Reset is pressed; failure of either function requires replacement.
Which condition in a crawlspace is MOST likely to accelerate wood decay in floor joists?
Answer: Exposed earth without a vapor barrier allowing moisture to rise
Exposed earth releases moisture vapor that raises crawlspace humidity, creating ideal conditions for wood-decay fungi in floor framing.
When inspecting a chimney, which condition requires immediate notation as a safety hazard?
Answer: Missing or deteriorated chimney cap allowing rain entry
A missing or damaged chimney cap allows water, animals, and debris to enter the flue, creating fire hazards, moisture damage, and blocked draft conditions.
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.
A home inspector finds single-strand aluminum wiring connected to a standard 15-amp duplex receptacle. Why is this a concern?
Answer: Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper, causing loose connections and fire risk
Aluminum wiring's greater thermal expansion compared to copper causes connections to loosen over time, creating arcing and fire hazards at standard receptacles.
What is the significance of finding a brown or rust-colored stain directly below a supply register on a ceiling?
Answer: The duct was improperly insulated, causing condensation
When ductwork in unconditioned spaces lacks sufficient insulation, warm humid air condenses on the cold duct surface and drips through the register, leaving stains.
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.