NHIE Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. A home inspector observes that a wood beam in a basement has a significant vertical crack running along its length. This condition is typically: → A normal seasoning check caused by drying shrinkage, usually not structurally significant
2. What is the minimum recommended distance between an air conditioning condenser unit and surrounding vegetation or structures to ensure proper airflow? → 18-24 inches on sides, with unrestricted discharge above
3. Which of the following is the inspector's responsibility when testing GFCI outlets? → Test each GFCI using a GFCI tester and document those that fail to operate properly
4. What is the function of a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) installed on the main water supply? → It reduces incoming municipal water pressure to a safe range for household plumbing
5. What is the primary purpose of professional certification in Exterior Evaluation? → To validate competency and knowledge in the field
6. What does the term 'bearing wall' mean in residential construction? → A wall that transfers structural loads to the foundation
7. A home inspector finds knob-and-tube wiring in an attic that has been buried under blown-in insulation. Why is this a concern? → Knob-and-tube relies on air circulation for cooling and insulation removes this
8. Which condition would a home inspector identify as most structurally significant when examining wood floor joists? → Joists with splits running along the grain at mid-span
9. What does a water hammer arrestor prevent? → Pressure surges that cause banging pipes when valves close quickly
10. How should an inspector handle the discovery of an active water leak during an inspection? → Document the deficiency and notify the client immediately of the condition
11. Which older insulation material may contain asbestos and should be flagged as a potential health hazard during inspection? → Vermiculite insulation
12. Which test method provides the most accurate long-term radon measurement for real estate transactions? → Alpha track detector deployed for 90+ days
13. Which statement about photo documentation in home inspection reports is most accurate? → Photos support and clarify written findings but do not replace them
14. During a home inspection, the inspector cannot safely access the roof. According to NHIE standards, the inspector should: → Report the limitation and inspect from the ground using binoculars or a drone if available
15. What is the primary purpose of a pre-inspection agreement signed by the client? → To define the scope, limitations, and terms of the inspection service
16. When describing a deficiency in an inspection report, which approach best meets NHIE standards? → Describe the condition, its location, and recommend corrective action
17. Which area of a home typically presents the highest radon entry risk? → Crawl space floor penetrations and sump pits
18. How does documentation support quality in Roofing? → It creates records, ensures consistency, and enables improvement
19. Which of the following is a sign of potential roof failure? → Granule loss exposing the asphalt layer
20. What does efflorescence on an exterior masonry wall indicate to a home inspector? → Water is moving through the masonry and depositing mineral salts on the surface
21. A home inspector finds dryer-like insulation in an attic that appears to be loose-fill material. A key field indicator that it may be vermiculite is: → Pebble-like, shiny, accordion-shaped particles that are grey-silver
22. When inspecting fiber cement siding, which installation deficiency is MOST commonly observed and reported by home inspectors? → Insufficient clearance between the siding bottom edge and roof or flashing surfaces
23. During inspection of a gas furnace, the inspector notices the pilot flame is yellow/orange rather than blue. What does this indicate? → Incomplete combustion, likely due to insufficient combustion air or a dirty burner
24. What is the primary purpose of a let-in brace (diagonal brace) in older wood-frame walls? → To resist racking forces and provide lateral stability to the wall
25. If an inspector encounters a locked door during an inspection, what is the proper course of action? → Note the limitation in the report and inform the client
26. What is the primary structural role of cripple studs in wall framing? → They transfer loads above and below window and door openings to headers and sills
27. When inspecting interior walls, which condition most strongly indicates moisture intrusion behind the surface? → Efflorescence staining at the base
28. What does 'truss uplift' typically cause in a home's interior? → Separation between partition walls and the ceiling
29. Which study approach is most effective for HVAC material? → Active recall with practice questions
30. What is the minimum clearance typically required between non-IC rated recessed light fixtures and attic insulation? → 3 inches