Questions and Answers
Which of the following is a real company legal structure?
A sole proprietor has no separation of liability if a claim is filed against them.
True
What does a typical general liability insurance policy provide?
$1 to 2 million in coverage
Which of these additional services is licensed in most (or all) states?
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The pre-inspection agreement (inspection contract) should be signed by the client before the inspection begins.
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What are some things you need to market your business?
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What percentage of your gross fees should you spend to promote your business?
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How often should you consider doing a mailing to all past clients?
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Which of these marketing methods is not effective for home inspectors?
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Which of the following is not a common method of establishing an inspection fee?
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Licensing curriculums teach technical competency.
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Home inspectors offer expert opinions that are legally binding.
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Which organization has the oldest recognized Standards of Practice?
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What does the ASHI definition of 'installed' mean?
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To which buildings are the ASHI Standards of Practice applicable?
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Which of the following tools is not required to meet the Standards of Practice?
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What is a key attribute of every good home inspector?
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You should never start an oven or dishwasher without checking the interior first.
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If any rooms or areas are blocked by stored items, what should you do?
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What are dormers?
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Traditional underlayment has been what weight?
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A cricket is required on the high side of any chimney wider than what dimension?
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What is the top edge of counter flashing covered by?
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Which of the following is not a valley type?
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What is the most common roofing material in North America?
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What is a valley style unique to slate?
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A flat roof equates to what slope?
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What should you recommend if you see broken chimney tiles?
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What does the home inspector's job not include?
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How long does a typical home inspection take?
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A home inspection usually includes electrical, plumbing, and insulation.
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When is the home inspector's job finished?
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How quickly do most inspectors provide a report?
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Inspection reports usually include a plat of survey.
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What do Standards of Practice allow the client to know?
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What should you do with 'dead end' valleys?
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Failed rubber at plumbing vents is common.
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Turbine vents are often rusted and 'locked up.'
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Black streaks on cedar shingles from galvanized nails are only a cosmetic issue.
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Short chimneys can cause down-drafting into the house.
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Chimneys have what kind of exterior feature?
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What is the top of the chimney known as?
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How high must all chimneys be above the roof?
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Study Notes
Company Structures
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a recognized legal structure for businesses.
- A sole proprietor does not have liability protection, meaning personal assets are at risk if a claim arises.
Insurance and Services
- General liability insurance typically covers $1 to $2 million.
- Termite inspection services often require licensing in most states.
Business Operations
- Pre-inspection agreements must be signed by clients prior to the inspection.
- Essential marketing materials include business cards, brochures, email campaigns, and a functional website.
- Allocate 3-7% of gross fees for business promotion.
- Conduct mailings to past clients a few times each year to maintain connections.
Marketing Effectiveness
- Yellow pages advertising is generally ineffective for home inspectors.
- Inspection fees are rarely based on the overall condition of the house.
Training and Standards
- Licensing programs emphasize technical competency.
- Home inspectors’ opinions are not legally binding.
- The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is recognized for its established Standards of Practice.
ASHI Standards
- ASHI defines "installed" as attachments requiring tools for removal.
- Standards apply to buildings with four or fewer units and associated garages or carports.
- A gas leak detector is not mandated to meet the Standards of Practice.
Home Inspector Qualities
- Effective communication is an essential skill for home inspectors.
- Inspectors should inspect ovens and dishwashers only after checking interiors first.
- Report any obstructed views in rooms as a "restricted view."
Roofing and Structural Features
- Dormers are protruding structures in the roof for additional space.
- Traditional underlayment for roofs includes 15 or 30-pound felt.
- A cricket must be placed for any chimney wider than 30 inches.
Roofing Materials and Styles
- The most common roofing material in North America is asphalt.
- Unique slate valley styles include gravel, flood coat, and seal coat.
- A flat roof typically has a slope of 2:12 or less.
Inspection Protocols
- Inspectors should recommend a masonry contractor for broken chimney tiles.
- The role of the home inspector does not extend to valuing properties.
- A home inspection generally lasts between two to three hours.
Inspection Contents and Reporting
- Typical inspections cover electrical, plumbing, and insulation systems.
- The inspector's role concludes once the report is delivered, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
- Reports generally do not include a plat survey, but Standards of Practice set client expectations.
Structural Observations
- Dead-end valleys should be checked for leaks or stains in attics or ceilings.
- Common issues include failed rubber at plumbing vents and rusted turbine vents.
- Black streaks on cedar shingles, caused by galvanized nails, are only cosmetic concerns.
- Short chimneys can lead to down-drafting issues in homes, with chimneys needing a chase and a crown.
- All chimneys must be at least three feet above the roof and two feet taller than any nearby structures within ten feet.
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Description
Prepare for the Illinois Home Inspector exam with this set of flashcards covering essential topics such as legal structures and insurance policies. Enhance your understanding of the responsibilities and liabilities faced by home inspectors. Test your knowledge with these key concepts to ensure you're ready for the exam.
