NHIE Inspection Process and Methodology 4

Question 1

What is the recommended approach when an inspector cannot operate a heating system due to safety concerns, such as a gas odor?

Accepted Answer

Do not operate the system and note the safety concern prominently in the report

Answer

A gas odor is a safety hazard; the inspector should not operate the system and must clearly document the condition.

Question 2

During a roof inspection, an inspector identifies three different roof coverings layered on top of each other. What is the primary concern?

Accepted Answer

Excessive weight load on the roof structure

Answer

Multiple roof layers add significant weight that can stress the underlying structure beyond design limits.

Question 3

Which of the following is the inspector's responsibility when testing GFCI outlets?

Accepted Answer

Test each GFCI using a GFCI tester and document those that fail to operate properly

Answer

Inspectors test and report GFCI function; they do not install, replace, or enforce current code on existing construction.

Question 4

What does it mean when an inspection report classifies a deficiency as a 'safety hazard'?

Accepted Answer

The condition poses a risk of bodily injury or death

Answer

A safety hazard is a condition that presents a risk of injury or death to the occupants.

Question 5

An inspector is asked by the seller to not disclose a known defect to the buyer. What should the inspector do?

Accepted Answer

Refuse and document all discovered defects in the report per professional standards

Answer

Inspectors have a professional and ethical obligation to report all observed deficiencies regardless of seller requests.

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test