CIA Construction Cost Estimating & Building Materials 2

Question 1

Which type of roof covering generally has the longest expected lifespan and the highest replacement cost per square foot?

Accepted Answer

Metal standing seam roofing

Answer

Metal standing seam roofing typically has a lifespan of 40–70+ years and carries significantly higher material and installation costs, making accurate identification critical for replacement cost appraisals.

Question 2

In insurance appraisal, what is the primary significance of masonry construction versus wood-frame construction?

Accepted Answer

Masonry construction generally provides greater fire resistance and carries higher replacement costs due to material and labor requirements

Answer

Masonry construction offers better fire resistance than wood-frame, which affects insurance risk classification and replacement cost calculations since masonry materials and skilled labor are more expensive.

Question 3

What does the ISO construction class system refer to in building appraisal?

Accepted Answer

Insurance Services Office classification rating a building's combustibility from fire-resistive to frame

Answer

The ISO construction class is a rating system (Classes 1–6) developed by Insurance Services Office that categorizes buildings by their combustibility, ranging from fire-resistive (Class 1) to wood-frame (Class 6).

Question 4

When estimating replacement costs, why is it important to correctly identify whether exterior walls are EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) rather than traditional stucco?

Accepted Answer

EIFS has documented moisture infiltration problems and unique repair and replacement cost characteristics distinct from traditional stucco

Answer

EIFS has experienced significant moisture infiltration problems and has unique repair and replacement characteristics that differ from traditional stucco, making accurate identification critical for cost estimation.

Question 5

Which flooring material typically commands the highest replacement cost per square foot when calculating insurance values?

Accepted Answer

Polished natural stone such as marble or granite

Answer

Natural stone flooring like marble or granite requires quarrying, cutting, transport, and skilled installation, resulting in significantly higher replacement costs compared to manufactured or engineered alternatives.

(CIA) Certified Insurance Appraiser Practice Test

(CIA) Certified Insurance Appraiser Practice Test

CIA Construction Cost Estimating & Building Materials 2