Environmental & Safety Assessment Flashcards

Which building material used in floor tiles and adhesive (mastic) installed before 1980 commonly contains asbestos?

Answer: 9-inch vinyl floor tiles

9-inch vinyl floor tiles and their adhesive mastic installed before 1980 frequently contain asbestos fibers.

What is the primary pathway for radon gas to enter a home?

Answer: Through cracks and openings in the foundation from soil

Radon enters homes primarily through cracks, joints, and openings in the foundation from the underlying soil and rock.

A home inspector finds a bathroom without any exhaust ventilation. The PRIMARY safety and structural concern is:

Answer: Moisture accumulation leading to mold growth and structural damage

Without exhaust ventilation, moisture from baths and showers accumulates, promoting mold growth and structural deterioration.

What is the recommended clearance between the bottom of a wooden structural member and the soil in a crawl space?

Answer: 18 inches

A minimum 18-inch clearance between soil and wood framing in a crawl space is recommended to reduce moisture and pest damage.

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.

An AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breaker is designed to protect against:

Answer: Electrical arcing that can ignite fires in wiring

AFCIs detect dangerous electrical arcing caused by damaged wiring or loose connections that can start fires.

A home inspector tests a smoke alarm and it does not respond. What should the inspector note in the report?

Answer: Note the deficiency and recommend immediate replacement or repair

A non-functioning smoke alarm is a life-safety deficiency that must be documented and repair or replacement recommended.