Student Discussion: InterNACHI® Home Inspection Standards of Practice Course

Inspection Education Topics Student Discussions
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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

Garage Roof Trusses – Structural Concerns: A visual inspection of the garage revealed that roof trusses have been cut and altered. Roof trusses are engineered components and must not be modified without prior review and approval by a licensed structural engineer. Alterations, even when performed by a contractor, require engineered specifications to ensure structural integrity and safety. Unauthorized modifications to trusses present a potential safety hazard. Additionally, wood screws were noted securing the bottom chord of the trusses directly through drywall into the wall framing. This installation method provides little to no effective load-bearing or shear resistance. It is strongly recommended that the altered trusses be assessed by a licensed structural engineer and remediated as necessary to restore proper structural support.
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To successfully complete this course, you must write two short essays.  

On this course page are instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection and taking inspection images. 

This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.

The second essay is described on the next course page.  

In relation to this inspection and writing assignment: 

  1. Inspect any system or component covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. For example, inspect the front door.
  2. Take inspection images of that system or component. It can either be in good condition or have a defect. 
  3. Make observations and take a lot of notes. Use your inspection software or InterNACHI's checklist.
  4. Write and submit a short essay describing your observations. Upload an inspection image with the essay. 

For example, you may inspect the bathroom toilet, the air conditioner, or a GFCI and its tester. Make observations. Take inspection images while performing the inspection. Take lots of notes. Then prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.

This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, taking inspection images, making observations, evaluating, writing notes, formulating opinions, and communicating observations in written form. 

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected. 
  • It must be submitted with an inspection photo. 

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, it will reviewed and marked by staff.   

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

Evidence of Past Water Damage on Baseboard

During this inspection, I observed a section of baseboard in a ground-floor bedroom that shows signs of previous water damage. At first glance, the baseboard appears to be in fair condition, as it has been repainted. However, upon closer inspection, there are still subtle signs that suggest a past issue with moisture.

The paint finish is uneven in certain areas, and there are faint stains and minor warping along the bottom edge where the baseboard meets the flooring. While the surface has been painted over, the material underneath feels slightly soft in places, indicating that it had absorbed water at some point in the past. There is no active moisture present now, and no visible mold or mildew, which suggests that the source of the leak has likely been repaired.

Based on these observations, I believe the damage is from an older leak that was addressed, and the area was repainted for cosmetic purposes. Still, it’s important to monitor this spot over time in case the issue returns. Water damage, even when covered up, can indicate past plumbing or sealing issues that may need follow-up attention.

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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

Solid strand aluminum wire was put into homes between 1965 and 1973. it doesn't last as long as copper simply because of the type of metal, becoming more dangerous with time. It is a fire hazard and required to be mentioned in a home inspection. Homes that have these wires are 55 times more likely to have a wire reach fire hazard conditions. Aluminum wires can cause galvanic corrosion when in contact with dissimilar metals and oxidize at a faster rate than copper wires. the oxidation type is less conductive and deteriorates connections. it will break apart more quickly than copper from being bent too much. the greater thermal expansion and contraction also leads to connection issues.
85

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To successfully complete this course, you must write two short essays.  

On this course page are instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection and taking inspection images. 

This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.

The second essay is described on the next course page.  

In relation to this inspection and writing assignment: 

  1. Inspect any system or component covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. For example, inspect the front door.
  2. Take inspection images of that system or component. It can either be in good condition or have a defect. 
  3. Make observations and take a lot of notes. Use your inspection software or InterNACHI's checklist.
  4. Write and submit a short essay describing your observations. Upload an inspection image with the essay. 

For example, you may inspect the bathroom toilet, the air conditioner, or a GFCI and its tester. Make observations. Take inspection images while performing the inspection. Take lots of notes. Then prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.

This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, taking inspection images, making observations, evaluating, writing notes, formulating opinions, and communicating observations in written form. 

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected. 
  • It must be submitted with an inspection photo. 

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, it will reviewed and marked by staff.   

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

On 04/16/2025 I conducted an inspection of the roof at 123 inspection lane. The roof type/style is a hip roof. I utilized a ladder and walked the roof, observing that the roof covering materials were comprised of asphalt shingles. The roof covering materials appeared to be in good shape, with no deficiencies noted. I observed two roof penetrations, that consisted of one exhaust pipe and one plumbing vent stack. Both roof penetrations had appropriate flashing, with no deficiencies noted. The roof was equipped with aluminum gutters and downspouts that terminated away from the homes foundation. The gutters were free and clear of any debris. The roofs ventilation system had a ridge vent, gable vents, and soffit vents with no deficiencies noted. It should be observed that due to personal belongings, I was unable to enter the attic and observe the roofs structural components.
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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

I read the Bathroom Ventilation Ducts and Fans. I learned newer bathroom fans are quiet and if you inspect an older bathroom fan and it's just as quiet that it most likely doesn't work, that they are mostly noisy. Also, that you can test for inadequate fan airflow, but tests exceed that standards of practice. You should refrain from calling anything mold but refer to anything that appears to be microbial growth, and that a home inspection is for safety and system defects not a mold inspection.
87

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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

After studying the article on garage door safety from the Library of Inspection Articles, I learned about the critical components and potential hazards of garage doors, which align with the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. Garage doors are among the heaviest moving objects in a home, held under high tension, and cause around 20,000 emergency room visits annually, including severe injuries and entrapments. Inspectors must check for defects in components like the manual release handle, door panels, warning labels, brackets, roller shafts, and automatic reverse systems, as outlined in the Standards of Practice for evaluating mechanical and safety features. The manual release handle, for example, must be red, easily accessible, and no higher than 6 feet above the floor to ensure emergency operation. Door panels should be free of cracks, dents, or fatigue, while warning labels must be present to alert users to dangers. The automatic reverse system, mandatory since 1991, must reverse the door fully upon contact with an object, tested cautiously by applying resistance or using a 2x4 block. Photoelectric sensors, required since 1992, must be installed 6 inches or less above the floor to detect obstructions. Defective components can lead to serious safety risks, such as entrapment or door failure, potentially causing injury or death. If defects are found, inspectors should recommend professional repairs by a trained technician, as DIY fixes, especially to high-tension springs, can be dangerous. Failing to correct issues like a faulty reverse system could result in crushing injuries or property damage. This article highlights the importance of thorough inspections to ensure safety and functionality, directly reflecting the Standards of Practice’s emphasis on identifying and reporting defects in garage door systems. Below is an image illustrating key garage door components, reinforcing the need for proper inspection.
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Excited to get started with Standards of Practice!

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To successfully complete this course, you must write two short essays.  

On this course page are instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection and taking inspection images. 

This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.

The second essay is described on the next course page.  

In relation to this inspection and writing assignment: 

  1. Inspect any system or component covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. For example, inspect the front door.
  2. Take inspection images of that system or component. It can either be in good condition or have a defect. 
  3. Make observations and take a lot of notes. Use your inspection software or InterNACHI's checklist.
  4. Write and submit a short essay describing your observations. Upload an inspection image with the essay. 

For example, you may inspect the bathroom toilet, the air conditioner, or a GFCI and its tester. Make observations. Take inspection images while performing the inspection. Take lots of notes. Then prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.

This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, taking inspection images, making observations, evaluating, writing notes, formulating opinions, and communicating observations in written form. 

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected. 
  • It must be submitted with an inspection photo. 

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, it will reviewed and marked by staff.   

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

InterNACHI Home Inspectors Standards of Practice Course Inspecting a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Michael Sullivan April 23rd, 2025

At 0930 hrs., 23 April 2025, a certified home inspector conducted a visual and functional check on the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) in the home located at 12345 Anywhere Street, Anyplace City, Any State, USA.

The following is a breakdown of the inspection:

• Location in the home of inspection: The only full bathroom in the home and located in
the main hallway between and across from the two small bedrooms.

• Exact location of GFCI: In the bathroom described above, to the left of the mirror(when
facing), and partially above the toilet.

• At the time of the inspection, a bathroom lamp was plugged into the outlet and the bulb
was displaying light, indicating that the outlet was functioning. The inspector pressed
the black test button, with no reaction. The inspector then attempted to trip the GFCI
three more times with no success. In the inspector’s opinion, the GFCI is not
functioning properly and could be hazardous. Due to this finding the inspector
unplugged the lamp and made note that the GFCI required further evaluation and likely
replacement by a certified electrician.

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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

Client requested inspection specific to the exterior siding/windows at a perspective purchase. Upon inspection it was observed that a bay window and siding are in need of correction. Window displayed signs of serious neglect over time. Siding and window both show damage in need of repair, recomend licensed contractor estimate cost for needed repair. Possible hidden damage, possibly leading to structural issues. Mold, Mildew is possible as well, which is a health and safety issue which should be addressed as soon as possible
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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

A homeowner is responsible for ensuring that leaves and debris are cleaned from roof valleys and gutters. Debris in these areas may result in water penetrating under the shingles which causes water damage of the roof. Clogged guuters result in the backflow of rainwater which auses water intrusion to the interior of the home causing significant damage. This applies to all roof covering materials.

Most residential homes are equipped with sloped roofs which shed water in an efficient manner. These homes are covered with asphalt or composite coverings which help protect the home from the weather. There are many different materials that cover a roof, such as asphalt, metal, wood, concrete/tile,or single-ply. Depending if one is at risk depends on the homeowners maintenance.

It is always important to get a certified inspector to inspect the property to ensure that the roof is protecting the property as it should. An Inspector can give a recommendation, but it is up to the homeowner to hire a reliable contractor that can give specific and professional advice about the roof itself.

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Take as many practice exams as possible, and i would take all the internachi courses concurrently. This will give you a leg up on all your tests and get you to all your certifications the fastest.

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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

In the Article " A Garage inspection," I learned that listening to others about common issues in the geographical area can be beneficial to a home inspection, as it can help you keep a vigilant eye out for major defects in certain areas of the home. In this specific article the Inspector was talking to a neighbor who informed him about the common issue in the area of garages having their roofs collapsing. This lead to the inspector finding major defects in the trusses. The inspector also found that improper joist hangers and fastening hardware were used in the garage and also noted that the modifications that were made didn't meet safety standards. In conclusion always be aware and look closely for any improper connections or defects that could cause structural issues or cause harm to other people.
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Great essay!

95

Just when I think I’m out, they pull me back in!

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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

Despite common misconception, the bat is neither a rodent nor a bird. Bats make up 20% of the worlds mammal diversity. Bat droppings, called guano, are comprised of phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium. These basic chemicals make up the ideal composition for fertilizer. Historically bat guano has served in agriculture. It is best to evict bats from a home outside of the summer months, as they reproduce during the summer and separating the adult bats from the babies will lead death for them. Utilizing bat houses attached to the home during an eviction will allow the bats an attractive alternative to an attic or home.
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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

After reviewing “Inspecting a Deck, Illustrated by Nick Gromicko, there were a few things that stood out as interesting. Statistically speaking, there was a significantly low percentage, 40%, of decks that are safely built. Also mentioned, was that there was no correlation in the decks that collapsed that were built by either a licensed contractor or a homeowner, nor if they had obtained a permit or not. Decks are increasingly common and as simple as they seem, real harm can come from one being built incorrectly. There are quite a few points, when it comes to deck building, that should be addressed. Just to name a few proper post to pier connections, sufficient lumber size, minimum distances of untreated lumber to the ground, proper orientation of girders on posts, and ledger connection. Each of the previously listed points are vitally integral for proper deck installation and ensuring safety for future use.
98

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To successfully complete this course, you must write two short essays.  

On this course page are instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection and taking inspection images. 

This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.

The second essay is described on the next course page.  

In relation to this inspection and writing assignment: 

  1. Inspect any system or component covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. For example, inspect the front door.
  2. Take inspection images of that system or component. It can either be in good condition or have a defect. 
  3. Make observations and take a lot of notes. Use your inspection software or InterNACHI's checklist.
  4. Write and submit a short essay describing your observations. Upload an inspection image with the essay. 

For example, you may inspect the bathroom toilet, the air conditioner, or a GFCI and its tester. Make observations. Take inspection images while performing the inspection. Take lots of notes. Then prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.

This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, taking inspection images, making observations, evaluating, writing notes, formulating opinions, and communicating observations in written form. 

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected. 
  • It must be submitted with an inspection photo. 

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, it will reviewed and marked by staff.   

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

Mock Inspection Form Completion

Doors and Windows (a representative number, by opening and closing them)

Inspected: Rear Exterior Door
• ☐ No Defect(s) Observed
• :check_box_with_check: Material Defect
• ☐ Major Defect
• :check_box_with_check: Minor Defect
• ☐ Cosmetic Defect
Not Inspected:
• ☐ Inaccessible
• ☐ Unsafe
• ☐ Not Present
• ☐ Not Within Scope

Details: The rear door of the home consists of two heavy doors that swing outward to the backyard area. The door frame is made of wood that is unfinished but in good shape, showing no signs of rot. However, there is no lock on the door, only gate latches, which pose a material defect as they are not very safe for the family. It is advisable to finish the wood to prevent potential rot or insect damage in the future. Both doors are heavy due to the solid wood frame and glass center, attached by standard metal hinges.

The right door has a minor defect because the hinges are loose, which causes the door to scrape against the floor. Additionally, there is an air gap between the two doors due to the weight of the door or excessive pulling on the handle, leading to improper closure. Weather stripping should be added to improve insulation and energy efficiency. Since it is an exterior door, ensuring proper security and insulation is crucial for the safety and well-being of the household.

Photos:
See Attachements

Additional Notes:
• Safety Reminder: The absence of a lock and the loose hinges pose safety concerns; repairs should be prioritized.
• Future Recommendations: Advise on reinforcing the hinges and adding weather stripping to mitigate air leaks. Consider the installation of a secure locking mechanism for enhanced safety.

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Let’s learn some more about home inspection SOPs!

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To successfully complete this course, you must write two short essays.  

On this course page are instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection and taking inspection images. 

This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.

The second essay is described on the next course page.  

In relation to this inspection and writing assignment: 

  1. Inspect any system or component covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. For example, inspect the front door.
  2. Take inspection images of that system or component. It can either be in good condition or have a defect. 
  3. Make observations and take a lot of notes. Use your inspection software or InterNACHI's checklist.
  4. Write and submit a short essay describing your observations. Upload an inspection image with the essay. 

For example, you may inspect the bathroom toilet, the air conditioner, or a GFCI and its tester. Make observations. Take inspection images while performing the inspection. Take lots of notes. Then prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.

This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, taking inspection images, making observations, evaluating, writing notes, formulating opinions, and communicating observations in written form. 

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected. 
  • It must be submitted with an inspection photo. 

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, it will reviewed and marked by staff.   

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

Here I have observed a double tapped breaker, an electrical wiring deficiency where two or more wires are connected to a single terminal on a circuit breaker that is not designed or rated to accept multiple conductors. Circuit breakers serve as overcurrent protection devices. Their primary function is to safeguard electrical circuits from excessive current flow by automatically interrupting the circuit (tripping) when the current exceeds the breaker's rated capacity. This prevents overheating of wires and potential electrical fires.

The InterNACHI Standards of Practice (SOP) mandates the inspection and reporting of such deficiencies due to the inherent safety risks associated with double tapping. Connecting multiple wires to a single breaker terminal can compromise the integrity of the electrical connection, leading to several hazardous conditions such as excessive heat buildup, potentially melting the insulation on the wires and increasing the risk of fire. Another risk from improper connections is arcing, which is the flow of electrical current through the air between two conductors. Arcing generates a lot of heat and can cause fires. Overloading the circuit breaker can cause it to trip more often than it should and not be used for its intended purpose.

The homeowner must be explicitly informed about the severity of this issue. It is crucial to emphasize that this is not a minor issue and requires immediate attention from a qualified electrician. The electrician will need to correct the wiring to eliminate the double tap.

This deficiency falls under Section 3.7. Electrical Systems of the InterNACHI SOP, which covers the inspection of service panels, subpanels, branch circuits, and overcurrent protection devices. Specifically, it relates to the proper wiring and termination of conductors within the electrical panel.

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Research & Writing Essay Instructions

  1. Choose one inspection article from the Library of Inspection Articles OR choose one illustration from the Illustration Gallery that directly relates to the areas covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. 
  2. Study the article or illustration. 
  3. In the box below titled “Your Essay," write an essay that describes what you’ve learned from reading the article or studying the image.  

Your essay must meet the following criteria: 

  • It must be written in English. 
  • It must be at least 80 words in length. 
  • It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.  
  • It must sufficiently comment upon the chosen article or illustration that is covered within the Home Inspection Standards of Practice.
  • It must include a screenshot, an illustration, or an inspection image. 

This research and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--researching and studying inspection images and illustrations, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.

You will submit your essay in the box that is titled “Your Essay.” 

Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.

While studying the InterNACHI article on aluminum wiring, I learned that single-strand aluminum wiring, commonly installed in homes built during the 1960s and 1970s, can pose a fire hazard due to its tendency to oxidize and expand more than copper wiring. This movement can lead to loose connections, which may cause overheating and arcing at outlets and switches. According to the Home Inspection Standards of Practice, I am required to inspect the main service and distribution wiring and report on any observed hazards. If I observe aluminum wiring during an inspection, I will inform the client about the potential safety risk and recommend further evaluation by a licensed electrician. This knowledge is essential to ensure client safety and fulfill my duty to report material defects and recommend appropriate follow up action.