International Compliance Association (ICA) Home Inspector Practice Exam

Which areas must be inspected during a home inspection to identify plumbing deficiencies?

1. The kitchen, laundry room, and all bathrooms

2. Living room and dining area

3. Garage and basement

4. Outdoors and driveway

The correct answer is: The kitchen, laundry room, and all bathrooms

Identifying plumbing deficiencies during a home inspection necessitates a focused approach on areas where plumbing fixtures and systems are most commonly present. The kitchen, laundry room, and all bathrooms are critical locations to examine, as they contain essential plumbing components such as sinks, faucets, showers, bathtubs, toilets, and drainage systems. Inspecting these areas allows the inspector to look for common issues like leaks, corrosion, water pressure problems, and proper drainage. The kitchen houses sinks and dishwashers, while the laundry room may contain washing machines and associated plumbing connections. All bathrooms usually have toilets, sinks, and shower or tub setups, making them prime candidates for potential plumbing deficiencies. Each of these spaces provides the opportunity to assess the functionality and condition of plumbing systems, ensuring comprehensive coverage during the inspection. In contrast, other areas such as the living room and dining area generally do not feature significant plumbing systems or fixtures, making them less relevant for identifying plumbing deficiencies. Similarly, the garage and basement may contain some plumbing components, but they are not as crucial compared to the specified areas. Outdoor spaces and driveways may contain drainage concerns but do not house the critical plumbing elements found inside the home. Thus, focusing on the kitchen, laundry room, and bathrooms is the