CBI Structural Inspection & Safety 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What are common signs of structural distress an inspector should look for?
- Cracks in foundation walls, sagging floors/rooflines, doors/windows that stick, and separated building components (Correct answer)
- Fresh paint and new carpet
- Clean gutters and trimmed landscaping
- New appliances in the kitchen
Correct answer: Cracks in foundation walls, sagging floors/rooflines, doors/windows that stick, and separated building components
Structural distress indicators include foundation cracks (especially horizontal or stair-step), uneven or bouncy floors, sagging rooflines, sticking doors/windows, and separation at joints between building components.
Question 2: What is a lateral force resisting system?
- The structural elements (shear walls, bracing, moment frames) that resist horizontal forces from wind and earthquakes (Correct answer)
- A system that prevents buildings from falling sideways during demolition
- A type of elevator safety mechanism
- The foundation drainage system
Correct answer: The structural elements (shear walls, bracing, moment frames) that resist horizontal forces from wind and earthquakes
Lateral force resisting systems include shear walls, diagonal bracing, and moment frames that transfer horizontal loads (wind, seismic) through the structure to the foundation, preventing building collapse or excessive movement.
Question 3: What is the purpose of a roof truss inspection?
- To verify proper installation, bracing, connections, and that trusses have not been modified or damaged (Correct answer)
- To check the color of roofing shingles
- To measure the roof's pitch for aesthetic purposes
- To count the number of trusses installed
Correct answer: To verify proper installation, bracing, connections, and that trusses have not been modified or damaged
Truss inspections verify correct placement, bearing, bracing, metal plate connector integrity, and that trusses have not been cut, drilled, or modified without engineer approval—modifications can cause catastrophic failure.
Question 4: What is a retaining wall and when does it require engineering?
- A wall that holds back soil; typically requires engineering when exceeding 4 feet in height or supporting surcharge loads (Correct answer)
- Any wall in a basement
- A wall built for privacy
- Retaining walls never require engineering
Correct answer: A wall that holds back soil; typically requires engineering when exceeding 4 feet in height or supporting surcharge loads
Retaining walls resist lateral earth pressure. Most jurisdictions require engineered design for walls over 4 feet in retained height, walls supporting structures or driveways, and walls on slopes or with surcharge loads.
Question 5: What are the requirements for smoke detectors in residential construction per current codes?
- Required in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, on every level including basement, interconnected so all sound together (Correct answer)
- One per house is sufficient
- Only required in the kitchen
- Only required in homes over 2,000 sq ft
Correct answer: Required in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, on every level including basement, interconnected so all sound together
Current codes require interconnected smoke detectors in each bedroom, in hallways outside sleeping areas, and on every level of the home including the basement, ensuring occupants are alerted regardless of fire location.
Question 6: What is an inspector's responsibility when finding unpermitted work?
- Document the violation, issue a notice of violation, and require the owner to obtain permits and bring work into compliance (Correct answer)
- Ignore it if the work looks acceptable
- Only report it if someone complains
- Approve it if it appears to meet code
Correct answer: Document the violation, issue a notice of violation, and require the owner to obtain permits and bring work into compliance
Unpermitted work bypasses safety reviews and inspections. Inspectors must document violations, issue notices, and require owners to obtain permits, potentially requiring work to be opened for inspection or corrected.
CBI Structural Inspection & Safety 2
What are common signs of structural distress an inspector should look for?