TheoryHome Inspector Study Guide
Study for the Home Inspector with exam topics, practice questions, a free PDF, video walkthrough and timed mock exam links.
How to study for Home Inspector
- Read the topic list so you know what the exam is likely to cover.
- Answer the free practice questions and read every explanation.
- Download the PDF for offline review.
- Use timed mock exams when your untimed practice feels comfortable.
Topics to review
- Work health & safety law and duty of care
- Spotting site hazards and controlling risk
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Emergency procedures and incident reporting
Try Home Inspector questions now
Q1What is the minimum clearance required between the service drop conductors and the roof surface over which they pass (where the roof pitch is less than 4 in 12)?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: 8 feet
NEC 230.24 requires at least 8 feet of clearance above a roof surface for service conductors where the pitch is less than 4/12. Steeper pitches allow a reduced 3-foot clearance.
Q2The weatherhead (service entrance head) for overhead service conductors must be located at or above which point relative to the service equipment?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: Above the service-entrance cable connection to the service drop
The weatherhead must be positioned at the top of the service entrance so that the drip loop directs water away and the conductors enter from above, preventing water infiltration.
Q3A residential service entrance conductor must maintain a minimum clearance above a public sidewalk or walkway of:
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: 10 feet
NEC 230.24(B) requires service conductors to maintain at least 10 feet of clearance above walkways accessible only to pedestrians, ensuring pedestrian safety beneath the wires.
Q4When inspecting a service entrance, a home inspector finds that the service entrance cable is stapled directly to the wood framing inside the wall cavity without protection. This is a concern because:
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: Physical damage to the cable could cause a fire or shock hazard
Service entrance cable in accessible locations must be protected from physical damage. Unprotected cable is subject to nail punctures and abrasion, which can compromise the insulation and create hazards.
Q5A 200-amp residential service requires copper service entrance conductors of at least which AWG size?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: 2/0 AWG
NEC Table 310.12 permits 2/0 AWG copper conductors for a 200-amp residential service. Aluminum would require 4/0 AWG for the same rating, reflecting aluminum's lower conductivity.
Q6What is the primary purpose of a grounding electrode system at a residence?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: To limit voltage imposed on the system from lightning and utility line surges
The grounding electrode system connects the electrical system to earth to stabilize system voltage and provide a path to dissipate lightning and utility surge energy, protecting equipment and occupants.
Full Home Inspector bank + unlimited mocks
Try 30 questions free. Unlock the complete Home Inspector question bank, every explanation, and unlimited timed mock exams. Practice on any device.
Unlock Home Inspector →