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WISCONSIN HOME INSPECTOR LICENSE
EXAM QUESTIONS AND CORRECT
ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS) PLUS
RATIONALES 2025
- What is the primary purpose of a home inspection? To provide a professional opinion on the condition of a home's major systems and components
- A home inspection is a visual examination to assess the condition of the home, not to guarantee future performance.
- During an inspection, which of the following is considered a major system? Electrical system
- Major systems include electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and structural components.
- What type of foundation is most common in Wisconsin homes? Basement foundation
- Due to the cold climate, basements are common for frost protection.
- When inspecting a roof, what is the primary concern? Condition and integrity of shingles and flashing
- Leaks and water intrusion usually occur due to damaged shingles or improper flashing.
- Which tool is essential for detecting moisture intrusion? Moisture meter
- A moisture meter helps identify hidden water problems in walls or floors.
- What is the minimum clearance required between a gas water heater and combustible materials? At least 6 inches
- Adequate clearance reduces fire risk and allows proper ventilation.
- What is the main purpose of grounding in electrical systems? To provide a safe path for electrical faults
- Grounding protects people from electric shock and prevents fires.
- What is a GFCI outlet used for? To protect against electrical shock in wet areas
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters quickly shut off power if a fault is detected.
- What is the typical slope required for proper drainage away from the foundation? At least 6 inches within the first 10 feet
16.What is the common cause of cracks in basement walls? Soil movement and water pressure
- Expansive soils and poor drainage cause foundation cracks. 17.What safety equipment is required during home inspections? Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles
- PPE protects inspectors from hazards during inspections. 18.What is the primary function of flashing around windows? To prevent water intrusion
- Flashing directs water away from vulnerable joints. 19.What is the maximum spacing allowed for floor joists in residential construction? 16 inches on center
- Proper joist spacing supports floor loads safely. 20.When inspecting plumbing, what is the main concern? Leaks and proper drainage
- Leaks can cause damage; drainage ensures waste moves correctly. 21.How should a home inspector handle a suspected mold problem? Recommend further evaluation by a specialist
- Inspectors are not mold experts and should refer to professionals. 22.What is the purpose of a vapor barrier in a crawlspace? To prevent moisture from the ground entering the home
- Vapor barriers reduce humidity and mold risk. 23.What type of wiring is typically found in older Wisconsin homes? Knob-and-tube wiring
- This outdated wiring is a safety concern and often needs upgrading. 24.What is the proper location for a water shutoff valve? Near the point where the water enters the home
- This allows quick shutoff in an emergency. 25.What does the term “weeping tile” refer to? Drainage pipes installed around the foundation
- They help divert water away from the foundation to prevent flooding. 26.What should be inspected in the attic? Ventilation, insulation, and signs of water damage
- Proper attic conditions prevent moisture problems and energy loss. 27.How is a home inspector supposed to report findings? In a clear, factual, and unbiased manner
- Reports must be objective and easy to understand for clients. 28.What is the minimum height required for guardrails on decks? 36 inches
- Guardrails protect against falls from elevated decks. 29.What is the common cause of peeling paint on exterior wood surfaces?
36.What is the function of an expansion tank in a hot water system? To absorb pressure changes from water heating
- Expansion tanks prevent excessive pressure in plumbing. 37.How often should a chimney be cleaned? At least once a year
- Regular cleaning prevents fire hazards and blockages. 38.What type of flooring is common in Wisconsin basements? Concrete slab
- Concrete slabs are durable and moisture resistant. 39.What is the main concern when inspecting windows? Operation and presence of broken glass or seals
- Windows must open/close properly and seal against weather. 40.What is the first step in performing a home inspection? Conducting a visual walkthrough
- The inspector surveys the home to identify areas for detailed inspection. 41.What is a common sign of roof leaks inside a home? Stains on ceiling or walls
- Water stains indicate penetration of moisture through roofing. 42.What is a common hazard with older electrical panels? Lack of proper grounding
- Older panels may not meet current safety standards. 43.What is the main purpose of soffit vents? To allow attic ventilation
- Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and ice dams. 44.What is the standard height for kitchen countertops? 36 inches
- This height is ergonomic for most users. 45.When inspecting a deck, what is a critical safety point? Attachment to the house
- Improper attachment can cause deck failure. 46.What is the minimum clearance from a gas appliance to combustible materials? 6 inches
- Sufficient clearance is needed for safety and maintenance. 47.What is the proper spacing for deck railing balusters? No more than 4 inches apart
- Prevents small children from slipping through. 48.Which is an acceptable method to check for proper floor drainage? Observe water flow during a rain event or simulated test
- Visual observation confirms correct drainage patterns. 49.What should a home inspector do if they find an unsafe condition?
Overheating and electrical fires Double tapping can cause loose connections and overheating in the panel. 56.Which material is commonly used for modern residential supply pipes? PEX tubing PEX is flexible, resistant to scale, and easier to install than copper. 57.What is the concern with aluminum wiring in homes? Higher risk of electrical fires Aluminum expands/contracts more than copper and can loosen connections. 58.What is one function of a ridge vent? Allows warm, moist attic air to escape Proper attic ventilation prevents mold and structural damage. 59.What tool is best for detecting heat loss around windows? Infrared camera Thermal imaging identifies areas of poor insulation or air leakage. 60.What is the purpose of a pressure relief valve on a water heater? To release excess pressure It prevents explosions by venting if pressure or temperature becomes too high. 61.What is the minimum height for an overhead service drop above a driveway? 12 feet This clearance ensures safety from vehicles and people. 62.What causes ice dams on roofs?
Poor attic insulation and ventilation Ice dams form when heat escapes, melts snow, and refreezes at eaves. 63.What is the typical size of a standard residential electrical service? 200 amps Modern homes usually require 200-amp service to meet electrical demand. 64.What is the allowable gap between the bottom of a door and the threshold in a garage? Less than 1/2 inch Larger gaps can allow fumes or pests into the home. 65.When inspecting a deck, which component is most critical to structural integrity? Ledger board attachment Failure at the ledger board is a common cause of deck collapses. 66.What is the function of a thermal expansion valve in HVAC systems? To regulate refrigerant flow It ensures proper cooling efficiency and prevents system freeze-up. 67.What defect is indicated by bulging exterior brick walls? Structural movement or foundation failure Bulging may suggest compromised load-bearing capacity. 68.What is a common sign of a failing septic tank? Soggy soil or standing water over the drain field Indicates system overload or blockage.
240 - volt dedicated circuit High-demand appliances require 240V power on their own circuit. 77.What does a cracked heat exchanger in a furnace indicate? Carbon monoxide risk A cracked exchanger can leak combustion gases into the home. 78.What is a proper way to test GFCI outlets? Press the test and reset buttons This verifies the GFCI is functioning as intended. 79.Which part of a roof is most prone to leaking? Valleys and flashing areas Water concentrates in valleys; flashing is vulnerable to gaps. 80.What is “headroom” in stairways? Vertical clearance above stairs Minimum required is typically 6’8” to prevent head injury. 81.How is structural settlement typically identified? Cracks in walls or foundation Diagonal cracks or stair-step cracks indicate movement. 82.What is a safe slope for a wheelchair ramp? 1:12 (1 inch rise for every 12 inches run) This is ADA compliant for accessibility. 83.What component must be inspected on gas furnaces for safety?
Flue pipe Ensures safe venting of combustion gases. 84.What indicates possible water intrusion in a crawlspace? Efflorescence and mold growth Both result from moisture presence and poor ventilation. 85.What is a common cause of trip hazards in walkways? Uneven concrete slabs Can occur due to tree roots, settling, or frost heave. 86.What tool helps confirm electrical current is present? Non-contact voltage tester A safe way to detect live wires. 87.What is the role of a footing in construction? Distributes load to the soil Footings prevent settling and provide a stable base. 88.What is the significance of rust on electrical panel screws? Possible water intrusion Water inside panels is a serious safety concern. 89.What is a key sign of poor attic ventilation? Frost buildup on underside of roof sheathing Moisture from indoor air condenses and freezes due to poor airflow. 90.What is the maximum allowable riser height variation?
Corrosion and reduced water flow Corrosion builds up inside, restricting flow and causing leaks. 98.What is a “kick-out” flashing? Directs water away from cladding at roof-wall intersections Prevents water from entering behind siding. 99.What is a common defect in manufactured fireplaces? Improperly installed or missing flue liner Leads to poor drafting and fire hazards.
- What should be inspected around a skylight? Flashing and signs of water intrusion Skylights are leak-prone if flashing is not correctly installed.
