InterNACHI Inspection Report Writing & Communicating Findings

Question 1

Under the InterNACHI Standards of Practice, what is a 'material defect'?

Accepted Answer

A specific issue that may significantly hurt the property's value or poses an unreasonable risk to people

Answer

The SoP defines a material defect as a specific issue with a system or component that may have a significant adverse impact on the property's value or poses an unreasonable risk to people. A component's age alone does not make it a material defect.

Question 2

If a system that would normally be inspected was NOT inspected, what must the report include?

Accepted Answer

A statement that it was not inspected and the reason why

Answer

The SoP requires the report to say which systems and components were not inspected and why, for example blocked access or utilities turned off, so the client knows the limits of the inspection.

Question 3

Which of these is the inspector NOT required to report under the InterNACHI SoP?

Accepted Answer

Cost estimates for repairs

Answer

The SoP's general limitations say inspectors are not required to estimate the cost of repairs. Defects, inspected systems and recommendations all belong in the report.

Question 4

Which report comment communicates a defect best?

Accepted Answer

'Several cracked asphalt shingles at the south slope may allow water in; recommend evaluation and repair by a qualified roofing contractor.'

Answer

A good narrative gives the location, describes the condition, states the possible consequence and recommends a qualified professional. Home inspections are not code inspections.

Question 5

Is an inspector required to determine whether components comply with current building codes?

Accepted Answer

No; a home inspection is not a code-compliance inspection

Answer

The SoP excludes determining compliance with codes, regulations or ordinances. A home inspection is a visual assessment of condition, not a code inspection.

(InterNACHI) International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Practice Test

(InterNACHI) International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Practice Test

InterNACHI Inspection Report Writing & Communicating Findings