CMI CMI Advanced Diagnostic Methods

Question 1

What does a thermal imaging camera detect during a home inspection that a standard visual inspection cannot?

Accepted Answer

Temperature differentials that may indicate moisture intrusion, insulation gaps, or electrical hot spots

Answer

Structural cracks behind drywall

Answer

The exact age of electrical wiring

Answer

Carbon monoxide concentrations in the air

Question 2

When using a moisture meter during a CMI inspection, a reading above what percentage in wood framing typically indicates a concern requiring further investigation?

Accepted Answer

19%

Answer

5%

Answer

10%

Answer

30%

Question 3

A CMI conducting a blower door test would use the results primarily to assess which building characteristic?

Accepted Answer

Building air leakage and envelope tightness

Answer

Structural load-bearing capacity

Answer

HVAC system capacity

Answer

Foundation settling rates

Question 4

Which symptom observed during a CMI's roof inspection most strongly suggests active moisture intrusion into the attic?

Accepted Answer

Staining on rafters or sheathing combined with elevated moisture meter readings

Answer

Uniform granule loss on asphalt shingles

Answer

Moss growth on north-facing slopes

Answer

Minor flashing rust on a flat roof

Question 5

A CMI inspecting a slab foundation observes diagonal cracking at window and door corners. This pattern most likely indicates which condition?

Accepted Answer

Differential settlement causing stress concentration at structural openings

Answer

Normal concrete shrinkage during curing

Answer

Thermal expansion from seasonal temperature changes

Answer

Overloading from heavy furniture placement

Question 6

When inspecting a gas-fired forced air furnace, which finding requires the CMI to recommend immediate discontinuation of use?

Accepted Answer

A cracked heat exchanger confirmed by combustion spillage test

Answer

Minor surface rust on the heat exchanger exterior

Answer

Filter that has not been replaced in 3 months

Answer

Thermostat that overshots the set temperature by 2°F