InterNACHI - International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Structural Systems Evaluation Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a crawlspace inspection, you observe a floor joist that has a 3-inch diameter hole drilled through its center.
The joist is a standard 2x8 dimensional lumber piece (actual dimension is 7.25 inches).
According to building standards, what should be your primary concern?

Accepted Answer

The hole's diameter exceeds the maximum allowable size.

Answer

The hole is located too close to a load-bearing wall.

Answer

The hole should have been square, not circular.

Answer

Multiple holes are spaced too closely together.

Question 2

A home inspector identifies a horizontal framing member in the upper third of the attic space, connecting opposing rafters near the ridge. What is the primary function of this component?

Accepted Answer

To prevent rafter separation from wind uplift forces at the ridge.

Answer

To provide a mounting surface for attic lighting fixtures.

Answer

To support the weight of the roof sheathing and covering.

Answer

To resist outward thrust of the rafters at the top plate level.

Question 3

Which of the following observations would be the clearest indicator of foundation 'heave' rather than 'settlement'?

Accepted Answer

An upward bulge in the center of a concrete slab floor.

Answer

Stair-step cracks in the exterior brick veneer.

Answer

Doors that stick at the top of the frame.

Answer

Gaps appearing between the wall and the ceiling.

Question 4

According to the InterNACHI Standards of Practice for a residential inspection, which action is an inspector required to perform when evaluating the foundation and structural components?

Accepted Answer

Report on observed indications of possible foundation movement.

Answer

Provide an engineering analysis of the adequacy of the foundation.

Answer

Move stored items in the crawlspace to access all foundation walls.

Answer

Determine the size, spacing, and adequacy of foundation anchor bolts.

Question 5

During an inspection of a 1960s home, you notice that the exterior walls appear to be bowing outwards slightly, and there is a corresponding sag in the roof ridge line. In the attic, you see that the ceiling joists run perpendicular to the rafters and there are no other horizontal members connecting the base of opposing rafters. What is the most likely structural deficiency?

Accepted Answer

The absence of rafter ties is allowing the walls to spread apart.

Answer

The roof sheathing is too thin for the rafter spacing.

Answer

The collar ties have been removed or were never installed.

Answer

The foundation is experiencing significant settlement on both sides.

Question 6

When inspecting visible framing members, an inspector notes a notch at the end of a 2x10 floor joist (actual depth 9.25 inches) where it rests on a support beam. The notch is 3 inches deep. What is the appropriate action for the inspector?

Accepted Answer

Recommend reinforcement, as the notch depth exceeds the allowable limit.

Answer

Report that the notch is acceptable as it is less than half the joist's depth.

Answer

Note that the notch is a standard construction practice and requires no comment.

Answer

Advise the client that notches are only permitted in the middle third of the span.