NHIE Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics 3

Question 1

An inspector is hired by a buyer's agent to inspect a home. To whom does the inspector owe the primary duty of care?

Accepted Answer

The client who contracted the inspection

Answer

The inspector's primary duty is always to the client — the person who contracted for the inspection.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the inspection methodology required by NHIE Standards?

Accepted Answer

Non-invasive visual examination of accessible systems

Answer

NHIE Standards require a non-invasive visual examination of readily accessible systems and components.

Question 3

What is the inspector's obligation when unsafe conditions prevent inspection of a component?

Accepted Answer

Note in the report that the component was not inspected and the reason

Answer

The inspector must document in the report any component not inspected along with the reason it was not inspected.

Question 4

A home inspector finds evidence of active wood-destroying insects during an inspection. Under NHIE Standards, the inspector should:

Accepted Answer

Report the finding and recommend further evaluation by a licensed pest specialist

Answer

Inspectors identify and report visible evidence and recommend specialist evaluation rather than diagnosing or treating the problem.

Question 5

Under the Code of Ethics, an inspector who also holds a contractor's license may perform repairs on a home they inspected:

Accepted Answer

Only if the client provides written authorization and is informed of the conflict

Answer

Some jurisdictions permit repairs after inspection if the client is fully informed and provides written consent, but the conflict must be disclosed.

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test