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CONNECTICUT HOME INSPECTOR
LICENSE EXAM QUESTIONS AND
CORRECT ANSWERS (VERIFIED
ANSWERS) PLUS RATIONALES 2025
- What is the primary purpose of a home inspection? To evaluate the condition of a home's major systems and components This helps buyers understand the property's condition before purchase.
- Which of the following is NOT typically included in a standard home inspection? Testing for radon gas Radon testing usually requires specialized equipment and is often a separate service.
- What is the minimum slope recommended for a home's foundation drainage system? At least 6 inches drop within the first 10 feet Proper slope ensures water drains away from the foundation, preventing water damage.
- Which type of roofing material is most prone to cracking in cold weather? Asphalt shingles Asphalt shingles can become brittle and crack in freeze-thaw cycles.
- What is the common spacing between joists in residential floor framing? 16 inches on center This spacing provides adequate structural support and is a common standard.
- What tool is typically used to check for moisture intrusion in wood? Moisture meter A moisture meter detects moisture levels in wood, indicating potential water damage.
- When inspecting electrical panels, what is the maximum breaker size for a 15 - amp circuit? 15 amps Circuit breakers should match the wire size and load capacity to prevent overheating.
- Which type of window is easiest to clean from inside the house? Double-hung windows with tilt-in sashes Tilt-in sashes allow easy cleaning without accessing the exterior.
- What is the minimum clearance required between a gas water heater and combustible materials? 18 inches Adequate clearance prevents fire hazards.
17.Which structural component supports the roof load in a typical wood- framed house? Rafters or trusses Rafters and trusses distribute roof loads to the walls and foundation. 18.What is a common sign of foundation settlement? Cracks in interior drywall or exterior masonry Settlement can cause stress cracks in walls and foundations. 19.What is the purpose of a vapor barrier in a crawl space? To prevent moisture from the soil entering the crawl space This reduces mold growth and wood rot. 20.What is the minimum height of basement egress windows? 24 inches Basement egress windows must allow emergency escape. 21.Which type of heating system uses a boiler and radiators? Hydronic heating system Hot water is circulated through radiators to heat the home. 22.What is the typical diameter of a main sewer line from a house? 4 inches A 4-inch pipe is standard for most residential sewer lines. 23.What is the purpose of flashing around chimneys and roof penetrations? To prevent water penetration Flashing directs water away from vulnerable roof areas.
24.What does AFCI stand for in electrical systems? Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter AFCIs detect electrical arcs and shut off power to prevent fires. 25.When inspecting a crawl space, what is a major health concern to note? Presence of mold or standing water These conditions can lead to structural damage and health risks. 26.Which type of insulation is sprayed as a foam? Spray foam insulation Spray foam expands to fill gaps, providing good air sealing. 27.What is a common cause of basement flooding? Improper grading and poor drainage Water pooling near foundations can seep into basements. 28.What should be inspected on a home's septic system during an inspection? Visible components such as the tank and drain field for signs of failure A home inspector may only visually inspect septic components unless licensed otherwise. 29.What is the typical thickness of drywall in residential walls? 1/2 inch Standard drywall thickness for interior walls. 30.How can an inspector detect improper ventilation in an attic? Presence of moisture, mold, or damaged insulation Poor ventilation leads to moisture buildup and damage.
38.What does a home inspector typically NOT do? Perform invasive testing Home inspections are visual and non-invasive unless otherwise agreed. 39.Which system uses ducts to distribute heated air? Forced air heating system Forced air systems use ducts and fans to circulate warm air. 40.What is a common sign of termite damage? Hollow-sounding wood and mud tubes Termites eat wood internally and leave mud tubes for travel. 41.What is the function of a sump pump? To remove water from basements or crawl spaces Sump pumps help prevent flooding by pumping out accumulated water. 42.Which is a safe practice when inspecting a home’s roof? Use proper fall protection and avoid inspections during wet conditions Safety is critical to prevent falls and injuries. 43.What type of wiring is most common in homes built after 1960? Non-metallic sheathed cable (NM cable or Romex) NM cable is the standard residential wiring. 44.How should an inspector check for proper grading around a home? Ensure ground slopes away from the foundation at least 6 inches over 10 feet Proper grading directs water away from the foundation.
45.What does a moisture meter measure? The level of moisture in building materials This helps detect hidden water damage. 46.What is the primary concern with aluminum wiring? Higher risk of electrical fires due to oxidation and loosening connections Aluminum wiring requires special connectors and monitoring. 47.Which of these is NOT a typical sign of roof leaks? Peeling paint on exterior walls Peeling paint is more often related to exterior moisture, not roof leaks. 48.What is the minimum height required for handrails on stairs? 34 to 38 inches Handrails must be between these heights for safety and code compliance. 49.What is the typical thickness of concrete slabs in residential floors? 4 inches This thickness provides adequate strength for floors. 50.Why is it important for home inspectors to document findings thoroughly? To provide clear evidence and recommendations for clients Accurate documentation protects both the client and inspector legally. 51.What is the primary purpose of a GFCI outlet? To protect people from electrical shock by shutting off power during a ground fault
58.Which type of window glass is required for safety glazing in doors and bathrooms? Tempered glass Tempered glass breaks into small, less harmful pieces when shattered. 59.What is the minimum distance required between a wood stove and combustible materials? 36 inches This clearance helps prevent fires. 60.What does the term “kickout flashing” mean? A flashing that directs water away from the intersection of a roof and wall It prevents water from entering behind siding or roofing materials. 61.What is the minimum slope for a roof to be considered “low slope”? 2:12 (vertical to horizontal) Roofs with slopes less than this require special materials and installation. 62.What is a common defect found in homes with aluminum wiring? Oxidation causing loose connections and potential fire hazard Aluminum wiring can oxidize and expand, loosening connections. 63.When inspecting a home's plumbing, what does a “water hammer” refer to? A loud banging noise caused by sudden water flow stoppage Water hammer can damage pipes and fixtures. 64.What is the typical thickness of insulation recommended for basement walls?
1 to 1.5 inches rigid foam insulation This thickness helps reduce heat loss and moisture intrusion. 65.Which type of electrical wiring is considered outdated and potentially unsafe? Knob-and-tube wiring Knob-and-tube lacks grounding and is prone to deterioration. 66.What type of foundation wall crack is generally considered serious? Horizontal cracks wider than 1/8 inch Horizontal cracks often indicate structural movement or pressure. 67.What is the recommended minimum height for kitchen countertops? 36 inches This height provides ergonomic work surfaces for most users. 68.Which component prevents backflow of water into the public water supply? Backflow preventer valve It protects potable water from contamination. 69.What is the purpose of a vapor barrier installed under a concrete slab? To prevent moisture migration from the ground into the slab Moisture barriers protect floors and reduce mold risk. 70.What is the correct term for the vertical support in a stair railing? Baluster Balusters provide support and safety for stair railings.
78.What is the primary cause of wood rot? Moisture intrusion Fungal decay occurs when wood remains wet for extended periods. 79.What tool is best for detecting leaks in plumbing supply lines? Pressure gauge or moisture meter Pressure gauges detect pressure drops; moisture meters identify wet areas. 80.Which heating system component controls temperature by turning the system on and off? Thermostat The thermostat senses temperature and controls heating cycles. 81.How often should smoke detectors be tested? At least once a month Regular testing ensures proper operation and safety. 82.What is the function of weep screed in stucco walls? To allow moisture to drain from behind the stucco Weep screeds prevent moisture buildup and damage. 83.What is the minimum height for a stair riser in residential construction? 4 inches Risers should not be less than this to ensure safety and comfort. 84.Which of the following roofing materials has the longest expected lifespan? Metal roofing Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years with proper maintenance.
85.What is a typical cause of mold growth in basements? Excess humidity and water intrusion Moisture provides ideal conditions for mold. 86.Which pipe material is commonly used for sewer lines? PVC (polyvinyl chloride) PVC is durable, resistant to corrosion, and widely used. 87.What is the function of a check valve in plumbing? To prevent backflow of water in piping Check valves allow flow in one direction only. 88.Which electrical component is designed to protect wiring from overheating? Circuit breaker Breakers interrupt power flow if current exceeds safe limits. 89.What is the typical clearance needed around a water heater for maintenance? At least 30 inches in front Adequate clearance allows safe servicing. 90.What should an inspector do if they find active termite infestation? Recommend a licensed pest control specialist for treatment Treating termites requires specialized knowledge and equipment. 91.What is the function of a plenum in an HVAC system? To distribute conditioned air from the furnace or air handler The plenum is the main air distribution box.
99.What is the typical depth of frost line in Connecticut? Approximately 42 inches Foundations must extend below frost line to prevent heaving.
- What is the typical height for a countertop backsplash? 4 inches Backsplashes protect walls from water damage.
- What is the primary cause of efflorescence on masonry walls? Water evaporation leaving mineral deposits on the surface Efflorescence indicates moisture movement through masonry.
- What is a common symptom of a failing sewer line? Slow draining fixtures and sewer odors Blockages or breaks cause drainage issues and odors.
- Which of these is a fire safety requirement for bedrooms? At least one emergency escape window or door Emergency egress is essential for occupant safety.
- What is the function of an expansion tank in a hot water heating system? To absorb pressure changes from water expansion It prevents damage to the heating system due to pressure spikes.
- Which tool is used to check electrical continuity? Multimeter A multimeter measures voltage, current, and continuity.
- What is the typical pitch of a residential shingle roof? 4:12 to 9: This range balances water runoff and ease of installation.
- How far should smoke detectors be installed from cooking appliances? At least 10 feet To reduce false alarms from cooking smoke.
- What is the maximum distance allowed between smoke detectors in a hallway? 30 feet Proper spacing ensures effective smoke detection.
- What is a common cause of peeling paint on wood siding? Moisture infiltration and poor surface preparation Moisture causes paint to lose adhesion and peel.
- What is the function of a thermostat anticipator in older HVAC systems? To prevent short cycling by anticipating heating cycles It improves system efficiency and comfort.
- What type of heating system uses hot air blown through ducts? Forced air heating system Fans distribute heated air through ducts to rooms.
- Which type of insulation is most effective at air sealing? Spray foam insulation Spray foam fills gaps and blocks air leaks effectively.
- What is the minimum clearance for combustion air supply around a gas appliance? At least 6 square inches per 1,000 BTU input Adequate combustion air prevents incomplete burning and CO buildup.
- What does the term “thermal bridging” refer to? Heat loss through framing members bypassing insulation Thermal bridging reduces overall insulation effectiveness.
- What is the typical spacing of roof rafters in residential construction? 1 6 inches on center This spacing supports roof loads effectively.
- Which material is commonly used for electrical conduit in residential wiring? PVC or metal conduit Conduits protect wiring and allow easy cable replacement.
- What is the purpose of a sump pit? To collect water before it is pumped out by a sump pump It helps prevent basement flooding.
- Which of these is NOT typically inspected during a standard home inspection? Asbestos presence Asbestos testing requires specialized training and equipment.
- What is a common cause of cracking in drywall? Structural movement or settling Shifts in framing cause drywall cracks.
- What is the minimum distance between electrical outlets on a wall? No more than 12 feet apart This spacing reduces use of extension cords.
- What is a sign of improper chimney flashing? Water stains on ceiling or walls near the chimney Leaks from flashing cause interior water damage.
- What type of foundation wall is most vulnerable to moisture intrusion? Concrete block walls without proper waterproofing Blocks are porous and require treatment to prevent water penetration.
- What is the minimum size of a residential circuit breaker? 15 amps This is the smallest standard size for branch circuits.
- What is the primary purpose of soffit vents? To allow air intake for attic ventilation Soffit vents help maintain airflow and reduce moisture.
- What is the typical height of a kitchen cabinet upper section? 30 to 42 inches This range allows comfortable access and storage.
- What is the most common cause of basement moisture? Groundwater seepage due to poor drainage Water accumulating outside the foundation can seep inside.
