National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) — Practice Exam
Plumbing: practice questions
Our Home Inspector (NHIE) bank has 24 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
Must an inspector test-open a TPR valve under InterNACHI's standards?
- No
- Yes, at every inspection
- Only on gas water heaters
- Only if it leaks
Show the answer
A. No — SOP 3.6.IV; old valves may not reseat.
Question 2
Why do gas water heaters in garages typically sit on a platform?
- To make draining easier
- To improve hot water flow to upstairs fixtures and make the tank easier to drain
- To keep the ignition source at least 18 inches above the floor, away from flammable vapors
- To prevent rust
Show the answer
C. To keep the ignition source at least 18 inches above the floor, away from flammable vapors — IRC G2408.2 (unless listed as flammable-vapor-ignition resistant).
Question 3
What toilet conditions must be reported under InterNACHI's standards?
- A toilet older than 10 years
- Any toilet older than 10 years, or any toilet that isn't a low-flow model
- Low-flow toilets
- Damaged, loose at the floor, leaking or tank parts not working
Show the answer
D. Damaged, loose at the floor, leaking or tank parts not working — SOP 3.6.III.
Question 4
In earthquake-prone areas, what is required for water heaters?
- Seismic straps to anchor them
- An insulating blanket
- Wider vent connectors
- A second thermostat wired to the gas valve
Show the answer
A. Seismic straps to anchor them — InterNACHI SOP 3.6 lists seismic bracing.
Question 5
Why is a missing gas shut-off at an appliance a concern?
- It increases the gas pressure at the appliance and wastes fuel
- It is required only for dryers
- The gas can't be shut off for service or in an emergency
- It increases gas pressure
Show the answer
C. The gas can't be shut off for service or in an emergency — Missing shut-offs are a typical fuel distribution defect.