OREGON HOME INSPECTOR LICENSE
EXAM QUESTIONS AND CORRECT
ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS) PLUS
RATIONALES 2025
1. What is the primary purpose of a home inspection?
To identify visible defects and safety issues in the home
The inspector's role is to evaluate the condition of accessible components,
not to guarantee the home's overall condition.
2. When inspecting a roof, what is the most common material used for
residential roofing in Oregon?
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material due to cost-
effectiveness and durability.
3. Which of the following is NOT typically included in a standard home
inspection report?
a) Structural components
b) Plumbing systems
, c) Cosmetic issues like paint color
d) Electrical systems
Cosmetic issues like paint color
Home inspections focus on function and safety, not aesthetics.
4. What is the minimum slope required for a roof to ensure proper drainage?
2:12 (2 inches of rise per 12 inches of run)
A slope less than 2:12 may lead to water pooling and potential leaks.
5. During inspection, what is the acceptable moisture level range in wood
framing to avoid decay?
Below 19%
Wood moisture above 19% creates conditions conducive to mold and
wood rot.
6. Which type of electrical wiring is considered outdated and potentially
hazardous?
Knob and tube wiring
Knob and tube wiring lacks grounding and can be unsafe by modern
standards.
7. What is the typical height for a residential handrail on stairs?
34 to 38 inches
Building codes require handrails within this range to ensure safety.
8. Which device is required on all circuits in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor
receptacles?
Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
GFCIs protect against electrical shock in wet areas.
, 9. When inspecting a furnace, what is an important indicator of proper
operation?
A clear and steady flame, with no soot buildup
A clean flame indicates good combustion and safety.
10.What does a chimney inspection typically look for?
Creosote buildup, structural integrity, and proper clearance
These conditions affect fire safety and proper venting.
11.What is the common cause of a wet basement in Oregon homes?
Poor drainage around the foundation
Improper grading or clogged gutters lead to water infiltration.
12.What tool is used to detect electrical voltage during an inspection?
Multimeter or voltage tester
These tools help ensure circuits are live or properly grounded.
13.What is the typical thickness of drywall used on interior walls?
1/2 inch
Standard drywall thickness for most residential walls is 1/2 inch.
14.How should attic ventilation be evaluated during inspection?
Check for adequate intake and exhaust vents to prevent moisture buildup
Proper ventilation extends roof life and prevents mold.
15.Which plumbing material is commonly found in older Oregon homes and
may require replacement?
Galvanized steel
Galvanized steel pipes corrode over time, leading to leaks and water
quality issues.
EXAM QUESTIONS AND CORRECT
ANSWERS (VERIFIED ANSWERS) PLUS
RATIONALES 2025
1. What is the primary purpose of a home inspection?
To identify visible defects and safety issues in the home
The inspector's role is to evaluate the condition of accessible components,
not to guarantee the home's overall condition.
2. When inspecting a roof, what is the most common material used for
residential roofing in Oregon?
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material due to cost-
effectiveness and durability.
3. Which of the following is NOT typically included in a standard home
inspection report?
a) Structural components
b) Plumbing systems
, c) Cosmetic issues like paint color
d) Electrical systems
Cosmetic issues like paint color
Home inspections focus on function and safety, not aesthetics.
4. What is the minimum slope required for a roof to ensure proper drainage?
2:12 (2 inches of rise per 12 inches of run)
A slope less than 2:12 may lead to water pooling and potential leaks.
5. During inspection, what is the acceptable moisture level range in wood
framing to avoid decay?
Below 19%
Wood moisture above 19% creates conditions conducive to mold and
wood rot.
6. Which type of electrical wiring is considered outdated and potentially
hazardous?
Knob and tube wiring
Knob and tube wiring lacks grounding and can be unsafe by modern
standards.
7. What is the typical height for a residential handrail on stairs?
34 to 38 inches
Building codes require handrails within this range to ensure safety.
8. Which device is required on all circuits in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor
receptacles?
Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
GFCIs protect against electrical shock in wet areas.
, 9. When inspecting a furnace, what is an important indicator of proper
operation?
A clear and steady flame, with no soot buildup
A clean flame indicates good combustion and safety.
10.What does a chimney inspection typically look for?
Creosote buildup, structural integrity, and proper clearance
These conditions affect fire safety and proper venting.
11.What is the common cause of a wet basement in Oregon homes?
Poor drainage around the foundation
Improper grading or clogged gutters lead to water infiltration.
12.What tool is used to detect electrical voltage during an inspection?
Multimeter or voltage tester
These tools help ensure circuits are live or properly grounded.
13.What is the typical thickness of drywall used on interior walls?
1/2 inch
Standard drywall thickness for most residential walls is 1/2 inch.
14.How should attic ventilation be evaluated during inspection?
Check for adequate intake and exhaust vents to prevent moisture buildup
Proper ventilation extends roof life and prevents mold.
15.Which plumbing material is commonly found in older Oregon homes and
may require replacement?
Galvanized steel
Galvanized steel pipes corrode over time, leading to leaks and water
quality issues.
