Home inspector exam study guide
Original study notes for each task in the public exam content outline, grouped by domain. Notes are written from general home inspection knowledge; always check current codes, your state's standards of practice and official materials.
Property & Building Inspection (70%)
Site conditions
Water is the enemy: most site findings are about moving water away from the house and keeping walking surfaces safe.
Exterior
The exterior inspection covers wall coverings, flashing, trim, doors, decks, porches, balconies, stairs and guards.
Roof
Inspect coverings, drainage, flashing, skylights, chimneys and penetrations, and state the method used.
Structure
Report visible evidence of movement, deterioration and water. Engineering analysis is out of scope.
Electrical
Inspect the service, panels, grounding, branch wiring and a representative number of devices.
Cooling
Operate with normal controls when conditions allow; report type, energy source and visible defects.
Heating
Describe the heating system and energy source, operate it, and report visible defects.
Insulation, moisture & ventilation
Report insulation type and approximate depth, plus attic, crawl and moisture conditions.
Mechanical exhaust
Fans, dryer vents and the fixtures they serve.
Plumbing & fuel distribution
Water supply, drain/waste/vent, water heaters, fuel storage and distribution.
Interior
Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, stairs, railings, counters and cabinets.
Fireplaces & fuel-burning appliances
Fireplaces, stoves, inserts, chimneys, flues and vents.
Life safety
Smoke and CO alarms, egress, fire separation, stairs, guards and garage doors.
Analysis of Findings & Reporting (20%)
Describing what was inspected
Clear, specific descriptions of systems, materials and methods.
Scope limitations
What wasn't inspected, why, and what to do next.
Reporting defects
Each defect statement says what, where, why it matters, and what to do.
Further evaluation
Refer to the right specialist when expertise or tools go beyond the inspection.