Contractor Exam Practice Questions

South Carolina General Building Contractor Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which type of insurance is required for a South Carolina general

contractor to legally operate?

• Health insurance
• General liability insurance
• Auto insurance
• Life insurance

Rationale: General liability insurance protects contractors against

claims for bodily injury, property damage, and is required by law for licensing. 1 / 4

• What is the primary purpose of a building code?
• To increase construction costs
• To ensure safety, health, and structural integrity
• To promote aesthetic design
• To limit contractor competition

Rationale: Building codes establish minimum standards for

construction to protect public safety.

• Who is responsible for ensuring subcontractors follow safety

regulations on a construction site?

• Subcontractors only
• The general contractor
• The building inspector
• The project owner

Rationale: The general contractor is responsible for overall site

safety, including monitoring subcontractors.

• When a contractor signs a contract with a homeowner in South

Carolina, the contract must include:

• Only the total cost
• Scope of work, project cost, start and completion dates, and

warranty information

• Only payment terms
• Only a termination clause 2 / 4

Rationale: South Carolina law requires contracts to clearly state

project details, cost, timeline, and warranties.

• What type of bond guarantees that a contractor will complete a

project according to the contract?

• Bid bond
• Performance bond
• Payment bond
• Maintenance bond

Rationale: A performance bond ensures the contractor fulfills

contractual obligations.

• Which of the following is the safest way to lift a heavy object on a

construction site?

• Lift with your back
• Use only one hand
• Lift with your legs and keep your back straight
• Pull instead of lifting

Rationale: Proper lifting technique prevents back injuries and is a

standard safety practice.

• What is the main purpose of a building permit?
• To increase project costs
• To ensure construction complies with codes and regulations
• To hire subcontractors
• To schedule inspections 3 / 4

Rationale: Permits allow local authorities to verify that construction

meets legal standards.

• Which material is considered non-combustible?
• Wood
• Concrete
• Asphalt shingles
• Vinyl siding

Rationale: Concrete is a non-combustible material commonly used in

fire-resistant construction.

• How often should scaffolding be inspected?
• Once a year
• Once a month
• Before each use and after any alteration
• Never

Rationale: OSHA requires scaffolding to be inspected daily for safety

before use.

• What is the minimum slope required for a residential roof to

ensure proper drainage?

A. 1:12

B. 2:12

C. 3:12

D. 4:12

• / 4