CHI Property Evaluation & Analysis 5

Question 1

Which statement best describes the home inspector's role when identifying a potential environmental hazard such as suspected asbestos?

Accepted Answer

Note the presence of suspect material, recommend testing by a qualified specialist, and avoid disturbing it

Answer

Home inspectors are not environmental specialists; the correct action is to identify suspect materials, recommend certified testing, and avoid any disturbance that could release fibers.

Question 2

An inspector evaluates a home built in 1978 and observes deteriorating painted surfaces on window sills. What should the report include?

Accepted Answer

Notation that deteriorating paint in pre-1978 homes may contain lead, and recommend testing

Answer

Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint; deteriorating paint is a recognized exposure hazard that warrants disclosure and professional testing.

Question 3

During a home inspection, the inspector notes the absence of handrails on interior stairs with four or more risers. This is classified as:

Accepted Answer

A safety deficiency because handrails are required by code on stairways with four or more risers

Answer

Building codes require handrails on stairways with four or more risers to prevent falls; absence constitutes a reportable safety deficiency.

Question 4

An inspector observes that a bathroom has no window and no mechanical ventilation. The primary concern is:

Accepted Answer

Lack of ventilation leads to moisture accumulation, mold growth, and accelerated deterioration

Answer

Without ventilation, humidity from bathing has no escape path, promoting mold, mildew, and damage to finishes and structure over time.

Question 5

What does the presence of polybutylene (PB) piping in a home's plumbing system indicate to a home inspector?

Accepted Answer

PB pipe has a known history of premature failure and should be disclosed with a recommendation for evaluation

Answer

Polybutylene pipe was widely recalled and is known to fail unexpectedly, causing significant water damage; its presence requires disclosure and professional evaluation.

(CHI) Certified Home Inspector Practice Test

(CHI) Certified Home Inspector Practice Test

CHI Property Evaluation & Analysis 5