Home Inspector Test Home Inspector Foundation and Basement Inspection 2

Question 1

What does a home inspector check when evaluating a sump pump installation?

Accepted Answer

The presence of a pit, functioning float switch, discharge line routing away from the foundation, and a check valve

Answer

The brand and model number

Answer

Only whether the pump turns on

Answer

The electrical panel amperage only

Question 2

What is 'spalling' in the context of concrete or masonry foundations?

Accepted Answer

Flaking, chipping, or breaking away of the surface layer of concrete or masonry

Answer

Outward bowing of a foundation wall

Answer

Settlement cracks in a slab

Answer

Efflorescence on block walls

Question 3

When inspecting a crawl space, what clearance between the ground and the bottom of the floor joists is typically required by code?

Accepted Answer

18 inches

Answer

6 inches

Answer

12 inches

Answer

24 inches

Question 4

A home inspector notes that downspout extensions are missing and gutters discharge directly at the foundation. The primary concern is:

Accepted Answer

Concentrated water discharge that saturates soil adjacent to the foundation, increasing risk of water intrusion and settlement

Answer

Gutter system aesthetic appearance

Answer

Splash erosion of landscaping only

Answer

Ice dam formation in winter

Question 5

What is pyrite-induced heaving in a foundation context?

Accepted Answer

Expansion of pyrite-bearing fill material when oxidized, causing slab or basement floor upheaval

Answer

Damage from tree root intrusion under the slab

Answer

Settlement from poorly compacted fill

Answer

Frost heave in cold climates

Question 6

Which of the following best describes 'hydrostatic pressure' as it relates to foundation inspection?

Accepted Answer

Water pressure exerted against foundation walls and floors by saturated soil or a high water table

Answer

The weight of the structure pushing down on the foundation

Answer

Pressure from expanding clay soils during dry periods

Answer

Internal air pressure differences in a sealed basement