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LOUISIANA HOME INSPECTOR LICENSE
EXAM QUESTIONS AND CORRECT
ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS) PLUS
RATIONALES 2025
- What is the primary purpose of a home inspection? To identify the condition of the property and report material defects. This helps buyers understand the home's condition before purchase.
- Which system is NOT typically included in a standard home inspection? Swimming pool systems Pools often require specialized inspections beyond the standard home inspection scope.
- When inspecting the roof, what is a common sign of deterioration? Missing or curling shingles These indicate weathering and potential leaks.
- What tool is often used to detect moisture in wood structures? Moisture meter It helps detect hidden water damage or mold risk.
- How deep should a foundation footing typically be below the frost line in Louisiana? Below the local frost line, usually 12-18 inches This prevents frost heave damage to the foundation.
- What is a major safety concern when inspecting an electrical panel? Improper wiring or overloaded circuits These can cause electrical fires or shock hazards.
- What type of material was commonly used in homes built before 1978 that may pose health risks? Lead-based paint Lead paint is toxic, especially to children.
- What is the normal operating temperature range for a water heater? 120 - 140 degrees Fahrenheit Temperatures above this can cause scalding or damage to the tank.
- Which part of the HVAC system should be checked for proper drainage? Condensate drain line Clogged drains can cause water damage or mold growth. 10.What does GFCI stand for and where is it required? Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, required near water sources Protects from electrical shock in wet areas.
18.What is a common defect found in older double-hung windows? Broken or missing balance springs This affects window operation and safety. 19.Which of the following is NOT a typical sign of termite infestation? Rusty nails Termites do not cause rust; this is unrelated. 20.What safety equipment should a home inspector use when inspecting attics? Protective gloves, mask, and headlamp Protects against insulation irritation and poor lighting. 21.What does the presence of efflorescence on a basement wall indicate? Water intrusion or moisture issues It shows mineral deposits left by water seepage. 22.What is the purpose of a sump pump? To remove water from basements or crawl spaces Prevents flooding and moisture damage. 23.How often should a chimney be inspected? At least once a year Regular inspection prevents fire hazards and blockages. 24.What is a common cause of uneven floors? Foundation settlement or joist issues Uneven floors often indicate structural problems.
25.What type of insulation is most commonly found in homes built in the 1980s? Fiberglass batt insulation Fiberglass batts were widely used due to cost and effectiveness. 26.What is a typical problem with aluminum wiring? Higher risk of fire due to oxidation and loose connections Aluminum wiring requires special connectors or replacement. 27.What does a sewer cleanout provide? Access point to clear sewer line blockages Allows for easier maintenance and blockage removal. 28.What is the main function of the vapor barrier in crawl spaces? To reduce moisture migration from the ground Helps prevent mold and wood rot. 29.What should an inspector note about a pool fence? Whether it meets local safety codes Proper fencing prevents accidents and complies with regulations. 30.What kind of defect might cause a door to stick or not close properly? Foundation settlement or warped frame Structural shifts often affect door operation. 31.What is the best way to test a smoke detector? Press the test button on the unit Ensures the alarm is functioning correctly.
39.What is the purpose of a damper in a fireplace? To control airflow and prevent heat loss when not in use Keeps smoke from entering the home and improves efficiency. 40.What should be checked in an HVAC air filter? Cleanliness and proper fit Dirty filters reduce efficiency and air quality. 41.What is a common hazard of knob-and-tube wiring? Lack of grounding and insulation deterioration Poses fire and shock risks. 42.What does the term “R-value” refer to in insulation? The resistance to heat flow Higher R-value means better insulation performance. 43.What is a sign that a roof may need replacement soon? Granule loss on shingles and blistering Indicates shingles are nearing end of life. 44.How should an inspector report a blocked or missing attic access panel? As a safety and accessibility issue Blocked access impedes inspection and emergency egress. 45.What is the minimum height for a handrail on stairs according to typical codes? 34 to 38 inches Ensures safe handhold for stair users.
46.What type of material should be checked for cracks or deterioration in exterior siding? Stucco or wood siding Cracks allow moisture intrusion and damage. 47.What is the maximum allowable slope for walkways to meet accessibility standards? 1:12 slope (8.33%) Ensures safe and accessible pathways. 48.What causes “spalling” on concrete surfaces? Freeze-thaw cycles causing surface flaking Leads to weakening and deterioration of concrete. 49.What safety hazard can a missing or broken window lock cause? Increased risk of break-in or child safety issues Locks secure the home and protect occupants. 50.Why is it important to identify the age of a home during inspection? Older homes may have outdated or hazardous materials Helps assess potential risks and needed upgrades. 51.What is the main reason for installing flashing around chimneys and roof penetrations? To prevent water infiltration Flashing directs water away from vulnerable joints to avoid leaks.
59.Which plumbing material is most resistant to corrosion? PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) Flexible and durable, PEX resists corrosion better than metal pipes. 60.What does “weep holes” in brick veneer walls do? Allow moisture to escape from behind the brick Prevents water buildup that can cause damage. 61.What is a sign of inadequate attic insulation? High energy bills and ice dams on the roof Poor insulation allows heat loss leading to ice dams. 62.What is the minimum clearance required between the bottom of wood siding and finished grade? 6 inches Prevents moisture wicking and wood rot. 63.What does the presence of black mold in a home indicate? Excess moisture and poor ventilation Mold growth requires moisture control to remediate. 64.What is a common problem with galvanized steel pipes? Corrosion and buildup inside pipes Leads to reduced water flow and possible leaks. 65.What is the function of a chimney cap? To prevent rain, debris, and animals from entering the chimney Protects the chimney and home from damage.
66.What is the most common cause of water heater failure? Sediment buildup in the tank Sediment reduces efficiency and damages the tank. 67.Which HVAC component is responsible for heating the home? Furnace or heat pump Generates and distributes warm air throughout the house. 68.What does a smoke test for a sewer system check for? Leaks or blockages in sewer lines Smoke escaping from pipes reveals defects. 69.How should deck ledger boards be fastened to a house? With lag bolts or through bolts into the rim joist Ensures a secure connection to support the deck. 70.What type of foundation is common in flood-prone areas like Louisiana? Pier and beam or raised foundations Keeps the home above floodwaters. 71.What is the function of a dampproofing membrane on foundation walls? To prevent water penetration from soil moisture Protects foundation from dampness. 72.What is a GFCI outlet designed to protect against? Electrical shock from ground faults Shuts off power when current leakage is detected.
80.What is the maximum spacing allowed between wall studs? 16 or 24 inches on center Depends on building code and structural requirements. 81.What does a cleanout provide access to? The main sewer line for blockage clearing Facilitates maintenance of the sewer system. 82.What should be inspected in the HVAC duct system? Leaks, insulation, and cleanliness Leaking ducts reduce efficiency and comfort. 83.What is the function of the sump pit in a basement? To collect water before the sump pump removes it Prevents basement flooding. 84.How should a home inspector report cracked concrete? Note the size, location, and potential structural concerns Helps identify severity and need for repair. 85.What is the minimum height required for guardrails on decks? 36 inches Prevents falls and meets safety codes. 86.What is a common cause of foundation cracks in clay soils? Soil expansion and contraction Leads to shifting and cracking.
87.What is the effect of improper ventilation in a crawl space? Moisture buildup and wood decay Increases risk of mold and structural damage. 88.What is the primary material used for sewer lines? PVC (polyvinyl chloride) Durable and resistant to corrosion. 89.What should be checked when inspecting exterior doors? Operation, weatherstripping, and condition Ensures security, energy efficiency, and function. 90.What is the minimum number of electrical outlets required in a kitchen? At least two on separate circuits Meets NEC requirements for appliance use. 91.What is the main concern with using asbestos-containing materials? Health risks from inhaling fibers Can cause serious respiratory diseases. 92.What is the function of a thermal barrier over spray foam insulation? To protect from fire hazards Required to meet fire safety codes. 93.How is a roof’s pitch usually expressed? As a ratio of rise over run (e.g., 4:12) Indicates steepness of the roof.
- What is a common issue with PVC plumbing? Cracking due to freezing temperatures PVC can become brittle in cold weather.
- What does a home inspector look for in gutters? Proper attachment, slope, and drainage Prevents water damage to foundation and siding.
- What is the purpose of a backflow preventer in plumbing? To stop contaminated water from entering the clean water supply Protects drinking water safety.
- What is the recommended spacing for deck joists? 16 inches on center Ensures proper structural support.
- What is a sign of improper grading? Standing water near the foundation Can lead to basement leaks and foundation damage.
- How often should a home inspector inspect HVAC filters? At every inspection or maintenance visit Dirty filters reduce system efficiency.
- What does a flashing failure typically cause? Water leaks and damage Flashing prevents water intrusion at joints.
- What is the function of a ridge vent? To allow hot air to escape from the attic Improves attic ventilation and energy efficiency.
- What type of grounding is required for modern electrical systems? Grounding conductor connected to earth ground Protects occupants from electrical faults.
- What is the maximum distance allowed between smoke detectors in a home? Depends on manufacturer’s instructions, typically 30 feet Ensures adequate coverage.
- What is a common cause of basement flooding? Poor exterior drainage and sump pump failure Proper maintenance and grading prevent flooding.
- How should kitchen appliances be inspected? Check operation, connections, and venting Ensures safety and functionality.
- What is the primary concern with old cast iron plumbing? Corrosion and leaks Can cause water damage and reduced flow.
- What is the minimum clear width of a stairway? 36 inches Meets safety codes for safe passage.
- What is the function of weep screeds in stucco walls? Allow moisture to drain out at the base Prevents water buildup and damage.
- What is the main risk of a missing or damaged chimney liner? Fire hazard and carbon monoxide leakage Liners protect the home from heat and gases.
- What is the most common material for modern water supply lines? PEX tubing Flexible and easy to install.
- What does a clean attic access panel indicate? Good maintenance and safety Allows proper inspection and emergency egress.
- What is the recommended distance between smoke detectors and kitchen appliances? At least 10 feet Prevents nuisance alarms from cooking.
- What is a common cause of water pressure loss in a home? Leaks or clogged pipes Affects fixture performance.
- How should an inspector evaluate stair handrails? Check for height, continuity, and secure attachment Ensures user safety.
- What type of foundation crack is usually NOT serious? Hairline shrinkage cracks Common and typically cosmetic.
- How can improper grading affect a home's foundation? Cause water infiltration and soil movement Leads to damage and settling.
- What is the main cause of sagging ceilings? Water damage or structural issues Needs prompt evaluation.
- What is the main purpose of soffit vents? To allow air intake into the attic ventilation system Prevents moisture buildup.
- What is a sign of a leaking roof around a chimney? Staining on the ceiling below Water penetrates through flashing or shingles.
- How should exterior stairs be inspected? Check for stability, surface condition, and handrails Ensures safe access.
- What does the term “thermal imaging” refer to in inspections? Use of infrared cameras to detect temperature differences Helps identify insulation gaps or moisture.
