National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
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About InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination
Note: InterNACHI has a proctored version used by Community Colleges and Home Inspection schools. It is also available for municipalities that require a proctored exam.
UPDATE: InterNACHI releases/adopts a new and improved entrance exam.
How much does it cost to take InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination?
The examination is free. You can take the free online exam now from the comfort of your own home. No charge. It is graded instantly online. Reminder... passing this exam does not make you "certified." See http://www.nachi.org/membership.htm for a full list of membership requirements.
Do I have to be a member of InterNACHI to take the free online examination?
No. Anyone can take the exam. Passing the exam is an entrance requirement to join InterNACHI. You can take the free online exam now, from the comfort of your own home. No charge. It is graded instantly online.
Does the exam contain many questions about InterNACHI?
No. It is a well-rounded general examination to determine the competency of any home inspector. The exam is not association-specific. But much more than that, more people have taken InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination than all other inspection examinations combined. Furthermore the system has built-in intelligence which constantly calculates and recognizes everything from individual repeat improvement to overall industry knowledge trends. All this combined with constant nationwide expert participation and improvement makes InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination the industry standard for assessing inspectors.
How many times can I take it?
You can take the free exam as many times as you like, whenever you like, wherever you like. It is different every time. Mathematically there are billions of versions of InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination.
Is the InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination different every time I take it?
Yes. It is different every time anyone takes it. The 120 questions are generated
randomly. The order of the possible answers is random. The 120 questions are drawn
randomly from a much larger pool of questions. Some questions are the same, only
worded differently. New questions are being periodically added to the pool after
psychometrically testing them.
I heard that InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is too difficult. Is this true?
No. The exam is difficult for some and easy for others. A general understanding
of residential construction and components is helpful. Most exam takers who have
a background in construction are able to pass on the first attempt even though
they have no inspection experience. Remember, if you fail we can use your exam
results to help determine what you need to study. InterNACHI gathers national statistics about each question on the exam. These statistics are automatically updated
every time someone takes the exam. Statistics concerning level of difficulty are
displayed for each question as you take the exam. Some of the national statistics about the exam, including pass/fail rates, are available on our web site.
I heard that InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is too easy. Is this true?
No. The exam is difficult for some and easy for others. Only about 1/2 the people who take the exam for the first time pass. The average grade is failing. You need a score of 80 to pass. InterNACHI gathers national statistics about each question on the exam. These statistics are automatically updated every time someone takes the exam. Statistics concerning level of difficulty are displayed for each question as you take the exam. Some of the national statistics about the exam, including pass/fail rates, are available on our web site. Critics must recognize that this exam is InterNACHI's entrance exam. Passing the exam is required to join InterNACHI. Other associations have no entrance requirements. Pets and blind men can and have joined other national associations. Critics should also read www.nachi.org/examsthatharm.htm
How many questions do I have to answer to pass?
It is impossible to say. The exam uses a weighted scoring system. Each of the 120 questions is weighted based on importance. Questions that have safety implications or cover larger issues count more than questions that have less serious implications or are geographically regional. In other words, questions that test to see if you know things every inspector should know are weighted heavily. Questions that test to see if you know things that are near the outside of the scope of a home inspection are weighted lightly. This weighted system is why your score is of a possible 100 though you will be asked 120 questions. Frankly, it is one of the main features that makes this exam great.
Is InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination a timed test?
Yes. You will be given only 60 minutes to answer 120 questions (30 seconds per question). If you run out of time before you answer all the questions but still answer enough to score 80 or more correctly, you will still pass the exam.
I understand that the exam contains many questions about wiring and electricity. Why?
It is true that the exam contains extra questions about wiring and electricity. Although "electrical" is only a small part of a home inspection, it is one of the more important parts. This is because electrical problems, unlike plumbing for example, can destroy property and kill people. Safety questions are weighted heavily.
I understand that the exam contains questions dealing with subjects outside the scope of our Standards of Practice. Why should I be tested about items I don't inspect?
It is true that the exam contains questions about subjects outside the scope of our Standards of Practice. However, an inspector must be able to talk intelligently about items such as mold and radon even though he/she is not providing such testing services.
I understand that the exam contains some very easy questions and some very difficult questions. Why?
Some questions may appear too easy or too difficult. That is because there are questions on this examination that are not counted toward your score, but are used by InterNACHI to monitor overall knowledge of the industry. Eventually questions that are either too easy or too difficult are removed altogether.
Are the questions true/false or multiple-choice?
Both true/false and multiple-choice questions are used. Each question page has two parts. The first tells you how much time you've spent so far, and how much time you're allowed. It also tells you how many questions you've answered, and how many there are in total. A new feature also gives you an idea of how hard the question is by telling you how well other people have done on it. This information is useful, but don't spend too much time on it, as it will slow you down. The second part is the test question itself. Some questions will be true/false and others will be multiple-choice.
Should I skip a question if I don't know the answer?
No. It is statistically better for you to guess than skip so we have made it impossible to go on to the next question until you pick an answer. Always choose the best answer out of the options given, even if two or more answers seem correct. If you see a question that could be improved or you think is in error, please write it down and contact InterNACHI once you have finished the examination.
If I don't run out of time can I go back and double-check my answers?
Yes. Examinees are given the opportunity to double-check their answers and correct mistakes before they submit them (within the time constraints of the exam).
How did InterNACHI determine the passing score of 80?
InterNACHI used several reasonable methods to come up with this passing score. National pass/fail rates are automatically updated every time someone takes the exam and these statistics are posted on our website. It is interesting to note that one of the methods used for setting the passing score, a version of the Modified Angoff Technique, determined the passing rate should be set at 71.
Can't someone just keep taking the exam until they pass?
Our statistics show that immediate repeat exam takers fare no better over time. InterNACHI has numerous examples of the exam being taken sequentially by the same exam taker without marked improvement. Some exam takers have tried as many as 15 times in the course of one day without establishing a correlation between success and number of attempts. Post exam interviews show improvement can only come with study between attempts.
Can't a computer hacker cheat?
InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is very secure. Each exam is dynamically created using advanced randomization techniques. The data is then stored server-side, making it nearly impossible to cheat the system.
Is there something I can do to prepare for taking the exam?
Yes. Visit InterNACHI's Online Inspector University. It is free.
Is it an open book examination?
Yes. You may use notes and books. This statement is included in proctor instructions. Our exam is difficult to pass, even though it is open book.
What will I need to take the exam?
Nothing except a reliable internet connection. Your time will NOT be extended if your connection fails or if your computer crashes during the test. In the case of a connection failure you should be able to re-connect and continue from where you stopped. If you cannot, don't worry because InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is completely free, and you can retake it whenever you wish. If you exceed the test's time limit, the unfinished questions will be counted as incorrect.
I only have a dial-up modem and an older browser. Can I still take InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination?
The exam is built with the latest server-side technology for increased security, but implements widely compatible client-side technology so that almost anyone with a web-browser (new or outdated) can use the system. The system is built with a 56k dial-up modem in mind: If an examinee's connection is lost mid-exam, he/she can simply reconnect and start where they left off. The system also uses optimized, low-resolution graphics for faster page loading.
I understand that each question is weighted differently with respect to score. Why?
Questions that have safety implications or cover larger issues count more than questions that have less serious implications or are geographically regional. In other words, questions that test to see if you know things every inspector should know are weighted heavily. Questions that test to see if you know things that are near the outside of the scope of a home inspection or newly introduced, untested questions are weighted lightly. This weighted system is why your score is of a possible 100 though you will be asked 120 questions.
Why is InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination a useful learning tool?
Each question is categorized and cross-categorized. Many questions fall into more than one category. This provides the basis for a narrative and quantitative evaluation post-completion so that the examinee knows what needs improvement, whether they passed the exam or not. The summary even includes a color pie chart.
What if I fail InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination?
Don't worry. Failing the exam will help you learn what you should study to become a home inspector. InterNACHI offers the study material for free. The exam is free and you can take it as often as you like. You can take the free online exam now, from the comfort of your own home. No charge. It is graded instantly online.
Is my individual score kept confidential?
Yes. Your privacy and the security of your personal information are very important to us at InterNACHI. This information is kept confidential and individual scores are only revealed to the exam taker. Scores do not appear on certificates. We only use cookies to identify you during the exam. We do not collect personally identifiable information on our web site unless you choose to give it to us. Even if you choose to give us information, we keep it confidential. We do not sell mailing lists or release your information to anyone outside our organization. We only use the information you give us to fill your order, to honor your request, to determine your apparent need, to provide information you desire or to improve the quality of your experience on our site. You can be sure that your personal privacy and trust are always safeguarded.
What if I pass InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination?
No. Once is not enough. Our industry changes over time and our exam is a living document that keeps up with changes in the industry. Associations that permit members to maintain their membership without passing an exam every year or so... are suspect. Membership requirements.
What if I barely pass InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination?
Don't worry. Passing is passing. Your score is computed and revealed to you at the end of the exam however your score is not reflected on your certificate. There is no reason to keep taking the exam in order to try to achieve a higher score, unless of course you find it fun!
I have taken several different home inspection exams. Why does InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination feel easier than other exams?
InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination feels easier for several reasons:
- It is free, so there is no financial pressure to pass.
- You can take it from the comfort of your own home.
- You can take it again and again (it is different every time).
- There are no irrelevant questions (found in other similar exams).
- It is not association specific.
National statistics about InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination are available online and automatically updated every time someone takes the exam.
Does InterNACHI accept any other exams as alternatives to InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination?
Yes. InterNACHI accepts exams given by the National Institute of Building Inspectors, the International Code Council, and the International Council of Building Officials as alternatives to InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination.
I need to pass an additional state exam. Can InterNACHI help me pass?
A few states require the passing of an additional state exam. InterNACHI will help you pass your exam.
I need to have InterNACHI's Online Inspection Examination proctored. Do you offer a proctored version?
Yes. Proctoring is provided in all 50 states by licensed school teachers. You can also use a proctor of your choosing provided he/she is a licensed, practicing teacher or professor and is not your spouse, parent, or relative. Email Nick for details and the correct form. Sprint, FedEx, Kinko's and CompUSA also provide online video conference proctoring for InterNACHI.
Was InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination developed in accordance with accepted psychometric standards?
These national statistics are on our website and are automatically updated every time someone takes InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination.
Has InterNACHI formed a partnership with Community Colleges to administer the exam?
Yes. InterNACHI has formed partnerships with many Community Colleges across the country. The purpose of these partnerships is to create and offer quality home inspection courses and continuing education credits at the college level.
How does InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination differ from other national inspection exams?
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is free to all. Other national examinations charge a fee each time you take them.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is built with the latest server-side technology for increased security, but implements widely compatible client-side technology so that almost anyone with a web-browser (new or outdated) can use the system from anywhere. Proctoring is available everywhere, too. Other examinations require you to travel.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is different every time you take it. Mathematically there are billions of versions of InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination. Other exams only have one or two versions.
- National statistics about InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination are automatically updated ever time someone takes the exam and these statistics are publicly posted instantly for all to see. Other national examinations refuse to release even their pass/fail rates.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination's pool of questions is compiled from submissions by experts and actual inspectors from all associations. Other exams have only used members of one association to produce their pool of questions. InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is a living document that constantly evolves.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is the official InterNACHI entrance exam. Other associations allow anyone to join without taking any exams.
- You can take InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination from the comfort of your own home with a dial-up modem. If an examinee's connection is lost mid-exam, he or she can simply reconnect and start where they left off.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination uses optimized, low-resolution graphics for fast page loading.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is not about InterNACHI. It is not association specific like other exams.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination was built with scalability in mind. Each question (and its answer) includes image support so that images can be added for further illustration. Each question can also support an unlimited number of answers for further scalability.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination permits examinees the opportunity to double-check their answers and correct mistakes before they submit them (within the time constraints of the exam).
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination uses a weighted scoring system. Questions that have safety implications or cover larger issues count more than questions that have less serious implications or are geographically regional. In other words, questions that test to see if you know things every inspector should know are weighted heavily. Questions that test to see if you know things that are near the outside of the scope of a home inspection or newly introduced, untested questions are weighted lightly. Other exams count each question equally.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is very secure. Each exam is dynamically created using advanced randomization techniques. The data is then stored server-side, making it nearly impossible to cheat the system.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination produces a custom evaluation screen which summarizes your areas of strength and weakness. The summary even includes a color pie chart. Other exams offer little or no summary.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination (a living document) is developed in accordance with accepted psychometric standards, ensuring an unbiased, valid and reliable assessment of inspector skill, knowledge and experience. InterNACHI has a full time former university research analyst monitoring the exam. Other examinations are very association specific and never evolve.
- InterNACHI used several reasonable methods to come up with our passing score of 80, including a version of the Modified Angoff Technique. It is interesting to note that this method determined our passing score should be set at 71. It is also interesting to note that the average score is failing.
- InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination's pool of questions and answers were not each drawn subjectively from a single reference but are generated using input from inspectors and experts from all over the country. Possible answers and the actual wording of the questions are also subjected to this industry wide scrutiny. InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination is a living document that keeps up with the times.
- More people have taken InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination than all other inspection examinations combined. Furthermore our system has built-in intelligence which constantly calculates and recognizes everything from individual repeat improvement to overall industry knowledge trends. All this combined with constant nationwide expert participation and improvement makes InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination the industry standard for assessing inspectors.
How much does it cost to take InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination?
The examination is free. You can take the free online exam now, from the comfort of your own home. No charge. It is graded instantly online. Click here to take InterNACHI's Online Inspector Examination.
Note: InterNACHI has a proctored version used by Community Colleges and Home Inspection schools. It is also available for municipalities that require a proctored exam.
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