Home Inspection State Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for an inspector to operate?

1. Shut off valves

2. Water heaters

3. Heating systems

4. Electrical panels

The correct answer is: Shut off valves

An inspector is not required to operate shut off valves during a home inspection. This is primarily due to safety concerns and the potential for causing unintended consequences, such as flooding or damage to the plumbing system. Unlike water heaters, heating systems, and electrical panels, which are typically part of the systems that inspectors evaluate for function and safety, shut off valves are often not accessed or operated. Inspectors focus on evaluating the condition and overall function of systems rather than manipulating components that could lead to hazardous situations. Understanding the role of each component helps clarify that while water heaters, heating systems, and electrical panels can be inspected for operational functionality, shut off valves are not included in this process as a standard practice for safety reasons.