Free InterNACHI's NHIE® Prep Webinar: Site & Exterior

Quick recap

The webinar, hosted by AJ and presented by Andy, focused on preparing home inspectors for the National Home Inspector Exam (NAHI). Andy covered key topics related to the exam, including site grading, exterior components, and safety standards, using example questions to illustrate the types of queries test-takers might encounter. He emphasized understanding building science and the reasoning behind code requirements, rather than just memorizing facts. The session also included tips for test-taking strategies and an overview of the exam format and process. AJ provided instructions on how attendees could add the webinar to their continuing education records for CPI status. The webinar was not approved for state continuing education credits.

Summary

Webinar Opening and Instructions

AJ opened a webinar with Andy Kushal and welcomed attendees from various locations across the United States and Canada. He clarified that the webinar was not approved for continuing education but could contribute to CPI status. AJ provided instructions on how attendees could add credits for attending the webinar and encouraged questions or contact for further assistance.

Home Inspector Exam Overview

Andy introduced himself as a partner educator with InterNACHI and shared his background in construction and home inspections, including growing a company to become the largest in Arkansas before selling it. He explained that the National Home Inspector Exam covers 200 questions over four hours, with a passing score of 500 out of 800, and is accepted in 35+ states. Andy outlined the course structure, which will cover residential home sites and exterior components, and noted that while local requirements may differ, the exam is based on national standards. The discussion included details about exam categories and specific questions, with Andy clarifying that taking the exam even in unlicensed states provides benefits for education, liability protection, and building science understanding.

Foundation Grading Requirements Discussion

Andy discussed the importance of proper grading around foundations, specifically the requirement for a 6-inch drop within the first 10 feet as outlined in the 2021 IRC (International Residential Code) 401.3. He explained that improper grading can lead to foundation settlement issues and water damage, particularly common in new construction homes with flat lots and elevated slabs. Andy shared practical inspection methods using a 4-foot level as a rough estimate, noting that while exact code compliance isn't required for home inspectors, documenting and communicating grading issues to clients is essential.

Home Inspection Standards and Grading

Andy discussed home inspection standards for grading and hardscapes, explaining that earth grading should slope at 5/8 inch per foot while hard surfaces like concrete should slope at 1/4 inch per foot due to differences in drainage properties. He emphasized the importance of checking all directions around concrete for proper slope and noted that about one-third to half of exam questions include diagrams or images. Andy also explained how to approach building science questions, using a retaining wall example to demonstrate how to analyze multiple factors and select the most likely cause based on understanding of water behavior and construction principles.

Pool Safety Inspection Requirements

Andy discussed pool safety inspection requirements, explaining that general home inspectors don't typically consider pools part of their standard inspection, but candidates must know pool safety features regardless of their local area's pool prevalence. He clarified that pool gate requirements include self-closing and self-latching features, proper spindle spacing, appropriate fence heights, and latch heights of at least 54 inches to prevent child access. During the Q&A session, Andy confirmed that candidates cannot bring dictionaries or other materials into the testing facility, and the National Home Inspector Exam is not offered in Spanish.

Construction and Code Requirements

Andy discussed various aspects of construction and code requirements, focusing on specific measurements and guidelines. He explained the reasoning behind different clearance distances from walls, noting that wood requires 6 inches of clearance due to moisture wicking and termite concerns, while masonry only needs 4 inches. Andy also defined a swale as a gentle depression in soil designed to direct water away from foundations, particularly important in mountainous areas. He covered current code requirements for safety railings, explaining that guards are required for elevated surfaces over 30 inches, with minimum railing height set at 36 inches and maximum 4-inch spacing between balusters to prevent accidents. Finally, Andy addressed wood retaining wall height restrictions, stating that unengineered walls should not exceed 4 feet, while engineered walls can be taller but require proper design and support systems.

Vegetation Scope in Home Inspections

Andy discussed the scope of vegetation in home inspections, explaining that items affecting the home's structure are included, while those that don't impact the house are typically outside the scope. He addressed conflicting information about measurement standards for retaining walls, noting that while some sources specify 4 feet from the top of the footer and others reference the bottom of the footing, he will verify the current code requirements. Andy emphasized the importance of understanding building science rather than just memorizing specific measurements, and recommended staying updated with industry changes through sources like InterNACHI and trade associations.

Exterior Building Inspection Training

Andy conducted a training session on exterior building inspection, focusing on siding, roofing, windows, and decks. He explained the most reliable method for fastening deck joists to a ledger board is using joist hangers fastened to both the joist and ledger, and emphasized the importance of proper flashing installation to prevent water intrusion. The session covered specific requirements for deck ledger attachments, including the use of half-inch lag screws or machine bolts in a staggered pattern without going through brick veneer, and discussed the proper installation of weep screeds in stucco construction.

National Home Inspector Exam Preparation

Andy discussed key concepts and strategies for preparing for the National Home Inspector Exam, covering topics such as building science, safety features, and test-taking techniques. He explained the three main ways the exam tests candidates: deep analysis of building science, memorization of facts, and applied reasoning. Andy advised students to expect a blend of question types, not a consistent pattern, and recommended reading questions aloud to fully understand them. He also suggested budgeting for potentially taking the exam twice and using smart guessing tactics like eliminating clearly wrong options and looking for matching language in questions and answers.

NAHI Exam Training Strategies

Andy conducted a training session on strategies for taking the National Home Inspector (NAHI) exam, covering techniques for handling trick questions, managing time, and understanding test procedures. He explained key concepts like testing each answer individually, identifying loaded words, and the importance of reviewing answers before submission. The session included details about the exam format, passing requirements, and practical advice for test day preparation. AJ provided guidance on how to properly record continuing education credits for attending the webinar.