BC Owner Builder Exam Questions and
Answers
Order of inspections - 1: forms, basement and crawlspace
2: Plumbing, dampproofing, foundation drainage , sanitary sewer, storm sewer,
sump, water service
3: plumbing, electrical, mechanical, gas
4: framing inspection
5: insulation and vapour barrier
6: rainscreen/exterior finishs, drywall
7: building envelop inspection
8: final inspection
Which is not an acceptable method for determining the correct grading for a
trench? - An experienced excavator says it's ok
At what depth is shoring required? - 1.2m/4ft
Which best describes the principle of rain waterterm-0 deflection? - Design and
construction that prevents water from ever entering
What lighting safety certifications are required in Canada? - CSA safety
certification
BC Owner Builder Exam
,BC Owner Builder Exam
What grit of sandpaper would get the smoothest result? - Higher grit with get a
smoother finish
What is the maximum rise in a flight of stairs? - The vertical height of any flight of
stairs should not exceed 3.7m
What is the minimum distance that a ladder must extend above a parapet wall or
landing? - 3ft
What heights are end dams to be on windows and door flashings? - 25mm/1 inch
End dam use - Stop water from coming in
When should you call for inspectors to make them efficient as possible? - Group
inspectors together when possible and call when work is complete
When is an HRV required? - Almost always
What can you build under the owner-builder HPO process? - Single detached home
under a single title. Single dwelling attached to pre-existing building older than 10
years. Single dwelling attached to a new non-residential building.
Who issues permits for a gas fireplace? - Safety Authority (call Technical Safe BC)
Can an owner builder take out their own electrical permit? - Yes, up to 200A
BC Owner Builder Exam
, BC Owner Builder Exam
What is the best way to apply asphalt waterproofing on a foundation? - Spray-on or
roll on dry foundation with 2in. below grade
When is the appropriate time to backfill a foundation? - After damp-proofing
What do you need to do when applying a peel and stick waterproof membrane
foundation? - Use an approved primer before installing
What are gas meter installation requirements? - The distance from the gas vent to
the roof must be greater than the overhang of the roof, nothing can be with in 1m
either side or 4.5m above a gas meter
When do you need to install a handrail or have fall protection? - 10ft, 4ft if no fall
protection
How high does a construction fence around a site need to be? - 6ft
When installing the footer, it was dug down 2in. deeper than what the elevation
should be. What needs to happen? - Install the footing form at proper elevation and
fill with extra concrete
When installing flashing for a roof valley how much do the asphalt shingles need
to overlap? - 6in.
What would cause a blister on a flat roof? - Moisture trapped under roof
BC Owner Builder Exam