International Compliance Association (ICA) Home Inspector Practice Exam

Are home inspectors required to check the connections of a washing machine?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if requested by the homeowner

4. Depends on local regulations

The correct answer is: No

Home inspectors are generally not required to check the connections of a washing machine as part of a standard inspection. While some inspectors may choose to do so as a courtesy or as part of a comprehensive service, it is not a mandated requirement in most inspection standards. The focus of home inspections is typically on assessing the condition of the home’s major systems and structural components rather than performing an exhaustive examination of every appliance. Checking appliance connections like those for washing machines might not be seen as essential because the primary role of a home inspector is to identify defects that may affect the safety, livability, and overall integrity of the home. Additionally, inspecting some appliances can translate to liability issues if the inspector inadvertently causes damage while examining or moving appliances. When considering other options, while local regulations might influence the scope of some inspections, the universal standard does not prioritize washing machine connections as a critical element in home inspections. Likewise, the notion of checking only upon homeowner request implies a level of subjectivity that deviates from the standard practices typically adhered to in the industry.