ICC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ICC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following best describes a Gantt chart used in construction project management? → A bar chart showing project tasks and their timelines
2. What does mediation in a contractor dispute involve? → A neutral third party helping both sides reach a voluntary agreement
3. What type of pipe is most commonly specified for new natural gas distribution main installations due to its corrosion resistance and ease of installation? → Polyethylene (PE)
4. In Illinois, small claims court can be used to resolve contractor disputes involving amounts up to: → $10,000
5. Which examination component is typically required for initial ICC contractor certification in Illinois? → Written competency examination
6. What does CERCLA (Superfund) law mean for Illinois contractors working on contaminated sites? → Contractors can be held liable for cleanup costs if they contribute to contamination
7. Before excavating near underground utilities in Illinois, contractors are legally required to call: → JULIE (811 — Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators)
8. What happens to an ICC contractor's certification if they are convicted of a felony related to their contracting work? → It may be revoked by the ICC
9. What must contractors engaged in public utility construction possess? → Proper licensing from the Illinois Commerce Commission
10. When performing work near an Illinois water supply well, a contractor must maintain what minimum horizontal setback distance from the wellhead? → 50 feet
11. What is the maximum length of a flexible cord used as a substitute for permanent wiring under Illinois electrical code? → Flexible cords may never substitute for permanent wiring
12. What is a key process for managing changes in a project? → Implementing change management processes
13. Which contract clause protects a contractor when unforeseen site conditions are discovered during excavation? → Differing site conditions clause
14. What is the approximate lower explosive limit (LEL) of natural gas (primarily methane) in air? → 5%
15. Illinois contractors generating hazardous waste on job sites must comply with which federal program? → Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) hazardous waste rules
16. Which of the following is a common Best Management Practice (BMP) for stormwater control on Illinois job sites? → Installing silt fencing around disturbed areas
17. When a natural gas leak is discovered during construction or excavation, what is the immediate first action the contractor must take? → Evacuate the area and immediately notify the gas utility and emergency services
18. What is the primary purpose of erosion and sediment controls on Illinois construction sites? → To prevent sediment-laden stormwater from polluting nearby waterways
19. What is the typical operating pressure range for natural gas transmission pipelines that feed into distribution systems? → 200 psig or higher
20. What is the purpose of Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas' 2025 annual internal audit? → All of the above.
21. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are required in Illinois residential bedrooms to protect against: → Electrical fires caused by arcing faults in wiring
22. What does the acronym RFI stand for in construction project management? → Request for Information
23. Which document must be submitted as proof of liability insurance when applying for an ICC contractor license? → Certificate of Insurance
24. In Illinois, contractors must provide homeowners with a written contract for home repair projects costing more than: → $500
25. What is required from applicants during the licensing application process? → Business identity, relevant experience, and financial stability
26. When an ICC contractor hires a subcontractor, who retains ultimate responsibility for the work performed? → The ICC-certified prime contractor
27. A contractor who accepts a large deposit and then abandons a project without completing work may be charged with: → Home repair fraud, a criminal offense under Illinois law
28. Which of the following would result in automatic suspension of an ICC contractor certification? → Failure to maintain required insurance coverage
29. When working near energized electrical equipment, Illinois contractors must follow which safety standard? → OSHA 29 CFR 1910.333 (Electrical Safety)
30. What must contractors provide to all employees before starting construction activities? → Safety training programs