Exam Practice Questions And Correct

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

• What is the primary purpose of a building permit?
• To increase property value
• To ensure compliance with building codes
• To guarantee construction quality
• To reduce insurance premiums
• To ensure compliance with building codes

Rationale: A building permit ensures that construction meets local

building codes and safety regulations.

• Which soil type typically requires the most foundation reinforcement?
• Gravel 1 / 4

• Sand
• Clay
• Rock
• Clay

Rationale: Clay soils expand and contract with moisture changes,

requiring stronger foundations to prevent structural damage.

3. The minimum slope for a residential roof in Iowa is typically:

A) 1/2:12

B) 3:12

C) 6:12

D) 8:12

B) 3:12

Rationale: A 3:12 slope (3 inches vertical per 12 inches horizontal) is generally the minimum for effective water runoff in Iowa climates.

4. OSHA’s primary role in construction is:

• Inspecting financial statements
• Regulating labor wages
• Ensuring workplace safety
• Approving building plans
• Ensuring workplace safety

Rationale: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

enforces workplace safety standards to prevent accidents and injuries. 2 / 4

5. The term “R-value” refers to:

• Roof slope
• Thermal resistance of insulation
• Load-bearing capacity
• Reflectivity of paint
• Thermal resistance of insulation

Rationale: R-value measures insulation’s resistance to heat flow;

higher values mean better insulation.

• What is the main reason for using a vapor barrier in construction?
• Strengthen walls
• Prevent moisture intrusion
• Improve aesthetics
• Reduce noise
• Prevent moisture intrusion

Rationale: Vapor barriers limit moisture movement to prevent mold,

rot, and structural damage.

• When is a footing required?
• Only in commercial buildings
• For all buildings with walls
• Only for sheds
• Only for retaining walls
• For all buildings with walls 3 / 4

Rationale: Footings distribute structural loads to the soil to prevent

settling and ensure stability.

• Which type of concrete is best for freeze-thaw environments?
• High water-cement ratio
• Air-entrained concrete
• Plain concrete
• Rapid-setting concrete
• Air-entrained concrete

Rationale: Air-entrained concrete contains tiny air pockets that

accommodate freezing water and prevent cracking.

• In Iowa, which code governs residential building construction?
• National Electrical Code (NEC)
• International Residential Code (IRC)
• Uniform Plumbing Code
• ASME Boiler Code
• International Residential Code (IRC)

Rationale: The IRC provides minimum standards for one- and two-

family dwellings.

• Which type of insurance protects the contractor against job site

accidents?

• General liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation
• Builder’s risk
• / 4