Florida Home Inspection Exam (FHIE) Multiple-Choice Flashcards
What is the minimum record retention period for inspection reports according to Florida regulations?
A. 1 year
B. 3 years
C. 5 years
D. 7 years
Answer: C. 5 years
Rationale: Florida home inspectors are required by law to retain records for at least 5 years to ensure compliance and accountability.
During a Florida home inspection, which system is not required to be tested by the inspector?
A. HVAC system
B. Plumbing system
C. Security system
D. Electrical system
Answer: C. Security system
Rationale: According to Florida Standards of Practice, home inspectors are not required to test security systems, alarms, or intercom systems.
When inspecting an electrical panel, which safety precaution is mandatory?
A. Use bare hands to check wiring
B. Ensure the panel cover is safely removed with insulated tools
C. Stand in water while inspecting
D. Always test with a metal screwdriver
Answer: B. Ensure the panel cover is safely removed with insulated tools
Rationale: This minimizes the risk of electrical shock and ensures the safety of the inspector.
What is the minimum attic insulation R-value recommended for Florida homes?
A. R-13
B. R-19
C. R-30
D. R-50
Answer: C. R-30
Rationale: The recommended R-value for attic insulation in Florida is R-30 to ensure adequate thermal resistance and energy efficiency.
Which roofing material typically has the longest lifespan?
A. Asphalt shingles
B. Wood shakes
C. Clay tiles
D. Metal roofing
Answer: C. Clay tiles
Rationale: Clay tiles can last over 50 years, outperforming asphalt shingles and wood shakes.
- What is the purpose of a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) in a home?
A. To increase voltage in outlets
B. To reduce the electric bill
C. To protect against electric shock in wet or damp areas
D. To maintain a steady current
Answer: C. To protect against electric shock in wet or damp areas
Rationale: GFCIs are required in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor areas to reduce the risk of electrical shock.
What is considered a major structural defect during a home inspection?
A. Minor drywall cracks
B. Peeling paint
C. Significant foundation cracks with displacement
D. Squeaky floors
Answer: C. Significant foundation cracks with displacement
Rationale: These cracks can indicate structural movement or failure, requiring further evaluation by a specialist.
Which gas is a Florida home inspector required to identify during an inspection?
A. Helium
B. Radon
C. Natural gas leaks
D. Carbon monoxide
Answer: C. Natural gas leaks
Rationale: Inspectors must test and report any natural gas leaks found in the home.
What should a home inspector do if they identify suspected mold during an inspection?
A. Ignore it
B. Clean it with bleach
C. Recommend evaluation by a licensed mold assessor
D. Test it personally
Answer: C. Recommend evaluation by a licensed mold assessor
Rationale: Florida law requires mold assessment to be conducted by a properly licensed professional.
How should an inspector handle an area that is inaccessible during an inspection?
A. Break down the door
B. Document the limitation in the inspection report
C. Ignore it
D. Guess what might be inside
Answer: B. Document the limitation in the inspection report
Rationale: It is essential to note any restrictions in access to avoid liability and provide transparency to the client.
What is the required minimum clear working space in front of an electrical panel?
A. 12 inches
B. 24 inches
C. 30 inches
D. 36 inches
Answer: C. 30 inches
Rationale: The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires a minimum of 30 inches of clear working space in front of electrical panels for safe access and maintenance.
Which of the following is a sign of potential roof leakage?
A. Even shingle wear
B. Staining on interior ceilings
C. Fresh paint on walls
D. Well-ventilated attic
Answer: B. Staining on interior ceilings
Rationale: Water stains on ceilings often indicate a roof leak or water intrusion that needs further investigation.
Answer: B. Staining on interior ceilings
Rationale: Water stains on ceilings often indicate a roof leak or water intrusion that needs further investigation.
During an HVAC inspection, what does a low refrigerant level typically indicate?
A. The system is over-performing
B. There may be a refrigerant leak
C. The thermostat is malfunctioning
D. The unit is too large for the space
Answer: B. There may be a refrigerant leak
Rationale: Low refrigerant usually points to a leak, as HVAC systems are closed systems where refrigerant should not diminish under normal conditions.
Which component is not part of a forced-air heating system?
A. Furnace
B. Air handler
C. Heat exchanger
D. Evaporator coil
Answer: D. Evaporator coil
Rationale: An evaporator coil is part of the cooling system, not the heating system. The other components are integral to forced-air heating systems.
Valley flashing that cannot be seen is called a ___________ flashing.
A. Open valley
B. Closed valley
C. Woven valley
D. Exposed valley
Answer: B. Closed valley
Rationale: A closed valley flashing is covered by shingles or roofing material, providing a clean look and additional protection against water penetration.
An electric panel that does not contain the service disconnect is called a ________.
A. Main panel
B. Subpanel
C. Transfer switch
D. Load center
Answer: B. Subpanel
Rationale: A subpanel is an auxiliary panel that distributes power to specific areas of the home. It does not contain the main service disconnect, which is located in the main pane
According to most plumbing codes, what is the maximum horizontal spacing for supporting a PVC drainage pipe?
A) 2 feet
B) 4 feet
C) 6 feet
D) 8 feet
Correct Answer: B) 4 feet
Rationale: Most plumbing codes specify that PVC drainage pipes must be supported horizontally at a maximum spacing of 4 feet. This ensures adequate support and stability, preventing sagging and maintaining proper drainage flow.
_________ is defined as the flow of liquids in piping for a potable water distribution system in reverse of their intended path.
A) Backdraft
B) Backflow
C) Cross-flow
Correct Answer: B) Backflow
Rationale:
Backflow occurs when water or other liquids flow in the opposite direction from their intended path, which can lead to contamination of potable water systems. Backdraft refers to a fire-related phenomenon, and cross-flow is not applicable in this context.
Parge coating is a mixture of _______________.
A) Backfill and cement
B) Portland cement and sand
C) Sand and gravel
Correct Answer: B) Portland cement and sand
Rationale:
Parge coating is typically made of a mixture of Portland cement, sand, and water. It is applied as a thin coat to masonry walls to create a smooth, finished surface and provide protection against the elements. The other options refer to different construction materials and mixes.
f a particleboard panel used for wall sheathing is 3/8-inch thick and its grade is type M-1, the maximum stud spacing should be _____ inches on center when the siding is nailed to the studs.
A) 16
B) 24
C) 4
Correct Answer: A) 16
Rationale:
For 3/8-inch thick particleboard of type M-1 grade, most building codes and guidelines recommend a maximum stud spacing of 16 inches on center. This ensures adequate support for the sheathing and helps maintain structural integrity. Wider spacing may not provide sufficient stability for this thickness and grade of material.
If an inspector is going to lift a heavy ladder, the inspector should always _________.
A) Lift as fast as possible
B) Lift with back muscles only
C) Lift with one’s entire body
D) Lift with the arms only
E) Lift with the leg muscles
Correct Answer: E) Lift with the leg muscles
Rationale:
Proper lifting technique involves using the leg muscles, not the back, to avoid injury. Bending at the knees and keeping the back straight while lifting ensures a safer and more efficient movement, especially with heavy items like ladders.
What is the minimum required attic insulation R-value for homes in Florida?
A. R-13
B. R-19
C. R-30
D. R-38
Answer: C. R-30
Rationale: The Florida Building Code recommends an R-30 insulation level for attics to improve energy efficiency in the state’s warm climate.
Which of the following roofing materials is most suitable for Florida’s climate?
A. Asphalt shingles
B. Slate tiles
C. Metal roofing
D. Wood shakes
Answer: C. Metal roofing
Rationale: Metal roofing is durable, reflective, and can withstand high winds, making it ideal for Florida’s heat and hurricane-prone environment.
What is the maximum spacing allowed between balusters on a residential stairway in Florida?
A. 2 inches
B. 4 inches
C. 6 inches
D. 8 inches
Answer: B. 4 inches
Rationale: The maximum spacing of 4 inches is a safety standard to prevent small children from passing through or getting stuck.
Which type of foundation is most common in Florida homes?
A. Basements
B. Slab-on-grade
C. Crawl spaces
D. Pier and beam
Answer: B. Slab-on-grade
Rationale: Due to Florida’s high water table, basements are uncommon, and slab-on-grade foundations are the preferred choice.
What is a critical concern when inspecting HVAC systems in humid Florida climates?
A. Airflow direction
B. Condensate drainage
C. Heat output
D. Duct material
Answer: B. Condensate drainage
Rationale: Proper condensate drainage is crucial to prevent mold growth and water damage in Florida’s humid conditions.
How often should a septic system typically be inspected in Florida?
A. Annually
B. Every 3 years
C. Every 5 years
D. Every 10 years
Answer: B. Every 3 years
Rationale: Florida regulations recommend inspecting septic systems every 3 years to maintain functionality and comply with health standards.
What is the minimum height for a handrail on a staircase according to Florida building codes?
A. 24 inches
B. 30 inches
C. 34 inches
D. 42 inches
Answer: C. 34 inches
Rationale: Handrails must be between 34 and 38 inches above the stair tread for safety and to meet code requirements.
What kind of plumbing pipe is no longer allowed in Florida homes due to failure risks?
A. PVC
B. PEX
C. CPVC
D. Polybutylene
Answer: D. Polybutylene
Rationale: Polybutylene pipes were prone to leaks and failures, leading to a ban in Florida and other states.
What is the typical lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof in Florida?
A. 10-15 years
B. 15-20 years
C. 20-25 years
D. 25-30 years
Answer: B. 15-20 years
Rationale: Florida’s intense sun, heat, and storms reduce the lifespan of asphalt shingles compared to milder climates.
When inspecting a central air conditioning system, what temperature differential should typically be expected?
A. 5-10°F
B. 10-15°F
C. 16-22°F
D. 20-25°F
Answer: C. 16-22°F
Rationale: A 16-22°F difference between return and supply air indicates proper cooling performance in Florida’s hot and humid climate.
