Blog

Earning your residential combination inspector designation can differentiate you from other home inspectors and showcase your versatility. To achieve the ICC R5 RCI license, you’ll need to take and pass four prerequisite residential inspector certifications, which include the following: 

Residential Building Inspector — B1 

The Residential Building Inspector Exam is a 60-question test. You have 120 minutes to complete the open-book exam. It covers topics such as: 

• Code administration 
• Building planning 
• Floor construction 
• Roof/ceiling construction 
• Public safety 

ICC does not recognize prior inspector certifications issued by model code organizations as equivalencies. You must pass ICC examinations to qualify for the R5 RCI designation.  

Residential Electrical Inspector — E1 

The Residential Electrical Inspector Exam also consists of 60 questions. You have 120 minutes to complete the open-book exam and must obtain a passing score of 70%. You’ll be tested on topics such as: 

• Services 
• Branch circuit and feeder requirements 
• Wiring methods and power and lighting distribution 
• Swimming pools and similar installations 

While the exam is open-book, it is quite challenging. With that in mind, it’s vital to prepare adequately by using user-friendly resources. A combination of physical books and online learning resources can help reinforce the information you’ll need for the exam.  

Residential Mechanical Inspector — M1 

The Residential Mechanical Inspector Exam consists of 60 questions. It is also a 120-minute open-book exam that requires a passing score of 70%. You’ll be asked questions on: 

• General administration  
• Heating and cooling 
• Water heaters 
• Exhaust and ventilation systems 
• Duct systems 
• Combustion air 
• Chimneys and vents 
• Fuel supply systems 

While preparing for the open-book exam, you should consider marking or tabbing important sections for quick reference.  

Residential Plumbing Inspector — P1 

The Residential Plumbing Inspector Exam consists of 60 questions. You’ll have 120 minutes to complete the open-book exam. It covers topics such as: 

• General requirements 
• Fixtures 
• Water heaters 
• Water supply and distribution 
• Vents 
• Sanitary drainage 

The questions can be distributed across these topics in virtually any ratio, meaning you’ll need thorough knowledge of all of the subjects outlined above.  

How to Plan the Exams 

When pursuing your ICC R5 RCI designation, it’s important to space out these exams. You want ample time to study for each exam. Cramming in a rush to complete all of them too fast may make it difficult to pass on your first attempt. 

Additionally, you should invest in an all-in-one exam prep bundle. Purchasing all of your resources at once can save money and ensure you have everything you need to study for your exams. Bundles that include a mix of physical and online resources can accommodate your learning style as you prepare to ace your residential exams.  

Accelerate Your Prep With RocketCert 

Achieving the ICC R5 residential combination inspector designation demonstrates your versatility and commitment to your craft. Ready to start your journey? 

RocketCert’s ICC R5 online exam bundle gives you everything you need to pass all four exams. Order your bundle today and let RocketCert support your learning path with our high-quality, on-demand resources.