CHI Property Evaluation & Analysis 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: An inspector finds that a wood deck ledger board is attached directly to a stucco-clad wall without flashing. The primary risk is:
- The deck may vibrate excessively during use
- Water intrusion behind the ledger causing rot and structural failure (Correct answer)
- The stucco will crack from the fastener load
- The ledger may be over-spanned for the deck size
Correct answer: Water intrusion behind the ledger causing rot and structural failure
Without proper flashing, water is trapped between the ledger and the wall, leading to hidden wood rot that can cause catastrophic deck collapse.
Question 2: Which roofing condition requires the most urgent recommendation in an inspection report?
- Minor granule loss visible in gutters
- Daylight visible through the roof deck from the attic (Correct answer)
- Two layers of asphalt shingles present
- Slight moss growth on north-facing slopes
Correct answer: Daylight visible through the roof deck from the attic
Daylight through the roof deck means there are holes or gaps that allow water and weather directly into the structure, requiring immediate repair.
Question 3: A home inspector tests a GFCI outlet in a bathroom and it does not trip when tested. The correct reporting action is:
- Note it as acceptable since GFCI outlets are rarely needed
- Report the GFCI as non-functional and recommend evaluation by a licensed electrician (Correct answer)
- Reset the GFCI and test again before reporting
- Only report if water damage is visible near the outlet
Correct answer: Report the GFCI as non-functional and recommend evaluation by a licensed electrician
A GFCI that fails to trip when tested is defective and must be reported, as it provides no shock protection in wet locations.
Question 4: During property analysis, an inspector observes double-tapped breakers in the main panel. This condition is a concern because:
- It reduces the panel's total amperage rating
- Two conductors on one breaker terminal can cause loose connections and overheating (Correct answer)
- It is only a concern if the breakers are over 20 amps
- Double-tapping is acceptable for 120V circuits
Correct answer: Two conductors on one breaker terminal can cause loose connections and overheating
Most breakers are designed for a single conductor; double-tapping can cause loose terminations, arcing, and fire hazards unless the breaker is specifically rated for two conductors.
Question 5: An inspector finds that the main water shut-off valve is located but cannot be fully operated. What should be documented?
- Nothing, as shut-off valves are rarely used
- The valve is inaccessible or inoperable and should be serviced or replaced (Correct answer)
- Only the location of the valve needs to be noted
- Report it only if the home is in a flood-prone area
Correct answer: The valve is inaccessible or inoperable and should be serviced or replaced
A non-operable main shut-off valve is a safety deficiency because it cannot be used to stop water flow in an emergency.
Question 6: What condition would cause an inspector to classify a chimney as 'significantly deficient'?
- Presence of a metal chimney cap
- Missing mortar crown with visible cracks allowing water entry into the flue (Correct answer)
- Slight darkening of brick near the top
- Chimney height of 2 feet above the roof peak
Correct answer: Missing mortar crown with visible cracks allowing water entry into the flue
A missing or cracked chimney crown exposes the masonry and flue liner to water intrusion, accelerating deterioration and creating a fire or CO hazard.
Question 7: When evaluating a sump pump, which finding indicates a potential problem?
- The pump is hardwired to a dedicated circuit
- The discharge pipe terminates less than 3 feet from the foundation (Correct answer)
- A battery backup unit is installed alongside the primary pump
- The float switch is set to activate at a low water level
Correct answer: The discharge pipe terminates less than 3 feet from the foundation
If the sump pump discharges too close to the foundation, water is re-introduced near the basement wall, defeating the purpose of the system.
CHI Property Evaluation & Analysis 3
An inspector finds that a wood deck ledger board is attached directly to a stucco-clad wall without flashing.
The primary risk is: