InterNACHI - International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Exterior and Grounds Inspection Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to the InterNACHI Standards of Practice for an exterior inspection, what is the generally recommended minimum slope for the ground surface within the first 10 feet of the foundation?

Accepted Answer

A fall of at least 6 inches.

Answer

A fall of at least 1 inch for every 10 feet.

Answer

A slope that is perfectly level to allow for water absorption.

Answer

A rise of 2 inches towards the foundation to create a swale.

Question 2

During an exterior inspection, you observe a second-story deck where the wooden support posts are in direct contact with the soil at their base. What is the PRIMARY concern you should report to your client?

Accepted Answer

The wood is susceptible to rot and wood-destroying insect infestation.

Answer

The deck is not aesthetically pleasing.

Answer

The soil contact may violate local zoning ordinances.

Answer

The deck posts are likely not the correct species of wood.

Question 3

Which of the following is an inspector REQUIRED to inspect according to the InterNACHI Exterior Standards of Practice?

Accepted Answer

Retaining walls that may adversely affect the structure.

Answer

Fences and outbuildings.

Answer

Recreational facilities, such as playground equipment.

Answer

The operation of storm windows and shutters.

Question 4

While inspecting a concrete driveway, you notice several sections have settled, creating uneven surfaces and significant cracks wider than 1/2 inch. One section has heaved upwards, creating a pronounced trip hazard at the entrance to the garage. Which of the following is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Report the settled sections and the significant trip hazard as material defects in need of correction.

Answer

Recommend immediate replacement of the entire driveway.

Answer

Note the cracks but classify them as minor cosmetic issues.

Answer

Advise the client that driveways are outside the scope of a home inspection.

Question 5

When inspecting the guardrails on a porch that is 48 inches above the adjacent ground, you find that the balusters (spindles) are spaced 7 inches apart. What should be reported?

Accepted Answer

The baluster spacing is a safety hazard and should be reported as in need of correction.

Answer

The spacing is acceptable for porches of this height.

Answer

The guardrail height is the only required measurement.

Answer

The material of the balusters is more important than the spacing.

Question 6

You are inspecting a timber retaining wall that is 5 feet tall and located 3 feet from the home's foundation. The wall is leaning noticeably outward and has several rotting timbers at its base. According to the Standards of Practice, what is your responsibility?

Accepted Answer

To report the wall's condition as a material defect that could adversely affect the home.

Answer

To provide a cost estimate for replacing the wall.

Answer

To ignore the wall as it is a landscaping feature.

Answer

To perform a structural analysis of the soil pressure behind the wall.