National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)

On a sloped asphalt-shingle roof, what is the primary purpose of the metal or plastic drip edge installed along the eaves and rakes?

1. ATo hold the shingles down during high winds
2. BTo provide attic ventilation at the roof edge
3. CTo direct runoff into the gutter and keep water from wicking back onto the fascia and sheathingCorrect
4. DTo increase the roof's fire resistance rating

Why: A drip edge extends water past the fascia so runoff falls into the gutter rather than wicking behind it and rotting the sheathing and fascia. It is a moisture-management detail, not a structural, ventilation, or fire component.

When prioritizing findings in a report, which of the following would typically be flagged as an immediate safety hazard rather than routine maintenance?

1. AMinor peeling paint on a garage soffit
2. BA few missing balusters on a rarely used fence
3. CAn exposed, energized electrical conductor within reach in the garageCorrect
4. DA slightly clogged gutter downspout

Why: Prioritization ranks defects by risk to safety and by consequence of failure. An exposed live conductor poses an immediate shock hazard and outranks cosmetic or minor maintenance items, so it should be clearly called out as urgent.