SOUTH CAROLINA 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 major defects and safety issues in a home
Home inspections are conducted to assess the condition of a property and identify
significant defects or safety hazards that may affect the buyer.
2. Which of the following is NOT typically included in a standard home
inspection?
Testing for radon gas
Radon testing is usually a specialized service and not included in a basic home
inspection.
3. How deep should a typical home inspector check a crawl space?
At least 18 inches to access and evaluate conditions
,Inspectors need sufficient space to view structural components and check for
moisture, pests, and damage.
4. What is the minimum height requirement for guardrails on a residential
deck?
36 inches
South Carolina building codes typically require guardrails to be at least 36 inches
high for safety.
5. What type of electrical wiring is considered outdated and potentially unsafe
in a home built before 1950?
Knob and tube wiring
Knob and tube wiring lacks grounding and insulation, making it a fire hazard in
modern homes.
6. Which condition indicates a possible roof leak during an inspection?
Water stains on the ceiling or attic
Water stains suggest moisture intrusion, often caused by roof leaks or damaged
flashing.
7. What is the recommended slope for a home’s exterior grading to ensure
proper drainage away from the foundation?
6 inches drop within the first 10 feet
Proper grading prevents water pooling near the foundation, reducing the risk of
water damage.
8. What is the standard voltage of most residential electrical circuits?
, 120 volts
Typical home electrical outlets and lighting circuits operate at 120 volts.
9. When inspecting a gas furnace, what should the inspector check for?
Proper ventilation and signs of carbon monoxide leaks
Gas furnaces must vent combustion gases safely; improper venting can cause
dangerous CO buildup.
10.Which type of insulation is commonly found in attics?
Fiberglass batt insulation
Fiberglass batt insulation is widely used for attic insulation because of its cost-
effectiveness and ease of installation.
11.What tool is used to check the operation of GFCI outlets?
GFCI tester
A GFCI tester can simulate a ground fault to verify that the outlet trips properly.
12.What is the typical lifespan of a traditional asphalt shingle roof?
15-30 years
Asphalt shingles generally last 15 to 30 years depending on quality and
maintenance.
13.How should a home inspector evaluate a basement for moisture problems?
Look for water stains, efflorescence, and musty odors
These signs indicate past or current moisture intrusion that could cause damage or
mold.
LICENSE EXAM QUESTIONS AND
CORRECT ANSWERS (VERIFIED
ANSWERS) PLUS RATIONALES 2025
1. What is the primary purpose of a home inspection?
To identify major defects and safety issues in a home
Home inspections are conducted to assess the condition of a property and identify
significant defects or safety hazards that may affect the buyer.
2. Which of the following is NOT typically included in a standard home
inspection?
Testing for radon gas
Radon testing is usually a specialized service and not included in a basic home
inspection.
3. How deep should a typical home inspector check a crawl space?
At least 18 inches to access and evaluate conditions
,Inspectors need sufficient space to view structural components and check for
moisture, pests, and damage.
4. What is the minimum height requirement for guardrails on a residential
deck?
36 inches
South Carolina building codes typically require guardrails to be at least 36 inches
high for safety.
5. What type of electrical wiring is considered outdated and potentially unsafe
in a home built before 1950?
Knob and tube wiring
Knob and tube wiring lacks grounding and insulation, making it a fire hazard in
modern homes.
6. Which condition indicates a possible roof leak during an inspection?
Water stains on the ceiling or attic
Water stains suggest moisture intrusion, often caused by roof leaks or damaged
flashing.
7. What is the recommended slope for a home’s exterior grading to ensure
proper drainage away from the foundation?
6 inches drop within the first 10 feet
Proper grading prevents water pooling near the foundation, reducing the risk of
water damage.
8. What is the standard voltage of most residential electrical circuits?
, 120 volts
Typical home electrical outlets and lighting circuits operate at 120 volts.
9. When inspecting a gas furnace, what should the inspector check for?
Proper ventilation and signs of carbon monoxide leaks
Gas furnaces must vent combustion gases safely; improper venting can cause
dangerous CO buildup.
10.Which type of insulation is commonly found in attics?
Fiberglass batt insulation
Fiberglass batt insulation is widely used for attic insulation because of its cost-
effectiveness and ease of installation.
11.What tool is used to check the operation of GFCI outlets?
GFCI tester
A GFCI tester can simulate a ground fault to verify that the outlet trips properly.
12.What is the typical lifespan of a traditional asphalt shingle roof?
15-30 years
Asphalt shingles generally last 15 to 30 years depending on quality and
maintenance.
13.How should a home inspector evaluate a basement for moisture problems?
Look for water stains, efflorescence, and musty odors
These signs indicate past or current moisture intrusion that could cause damage or
mold.
