Licensing Exam Practice Questions And

Tennessee BC-A (Residential Contractor) Licensing Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the maximum spacing for wood floor joists in

a typical residential floor supporting a live load of 40 psf?

• 12 inches
• 16 inches
• 24 inches
• 16 inches

Rationale: Standard practice for residential floor joists is 16 inches on

center when supporting typical live loads.

• What is the minimum ceiling height required for habitable spaces in a

residential dwelling according to IRC? 1 / 4

• 6 feet 8 inches
• 7 feet
• 7 feet 6 inches
• 8 feet

Rationale: IRC specifies a minimum of 7 feet for habitable spaces;

some rooms like basements may have exceptions.

• Which type of foundation is most commonly used for residential

homes in Tennessee?

• Slab-on-grade
• Crawl space
• Basement
• Pier and beam

Rationale: Crawl space foundations are preferred in Tennessee due

to soil conditions and moisture control.

• Which document outlines the legal obligations between a contractor

and homeowner?

• Blueprint
• Bid proposal
• Contract
• Building permit

Rationale: A contract legally defines the scope, price, and terms of

the work. 2 / 4

• When must a Tennessee residential contractor obtain a building

permit?

• Only for commercial projects
• Prior to starting construction
• After completing construction
• Only for electrical and plumbing work

Rationale: Tennessee law requires permits before any regulated

work begins.

• What is the primary purpose of a vapor barrier in residential

construction?

• Prevent structural damage
• Prevent moisture migration into walls and floors
• Improve insulation R-value
• Increase fire resistance

Rationale: Vapor barriers reduce the risk of mold and decay by

stopping moisture movement.

• What is the correct slope for a residential roof designed for asphalt

shingles?

A. 1:12

B. 4:12

C. 2:12

D. 6:12 3 / 4

Rationale: Asphalt shingles typically require a minimum slope of 4:12 for proper drainage.

• Which type of insulation is most effective in reducing heat transfer

through walls?

• Fiberglass batts
• Spray foam
• Cellulose
• Rigid foam

Rationale: Spray foam has higher R-value per inch and reduces air

infiltration.

• According to IRC, what is the minimum width for a residential

stairway?

• 30 inches
• 36 inches
• 40 inches
• 42 inches

Rationale: IRC requires stairways to be at least 36 inches wide for

safe egress.

• Which Tennessee agency regulates contractor licensing?
• Tennessee Department of Revenue
• Tennessee OSHA
• Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
• Tennessee Housing Development Agency
• / 4