South Carolina Residential Builder Exam

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

• Which of the following is the primary purpose of the building code?
• To ensure construction projects are completed quickly
• To regulate materials for aesthetic purposes
• To protect public health, safety, and welfare
• To control construction costs

Rationale: Building codes are established to ensure safety, health,

and welfare of the public by regulating construction standards.

2. A general contractor is required to obtain a license before:

• Purchasing materials
• Engaging in residential construction projects
• Hiring subcontractors
• Filing tax documents 1 / 4

Rationale: In South Carolina, residential builders must be licensed

before performing construction work on residential properties.

• Which of the following is considered a residential building?
• A 50-unit apartment complex
• A commercial office building
• A single-family home
• A retail shopping center

Rationale: Residential buildings include single-family homes,

townhouses, and other dwellings intended for occupancy.

4. The term “subcontractor” refers to:

• The homeowner
• A person or company hired by the general contractor to perform a

specific portion of work

• The building inspector
• A material supplier

Rationale: Subcontractors perform specialized tasks under the

direction of the general contractor.

• Which of the following soils is most suitable for supporting a

residential foundation?

• Peat
• Clay with high moisture
• Well-compacted gravel or sand
• Organic topsoil 2 / 4

Rationale: Well-compacted gravel or sand provides stable support

and reduces settlement risk.

• In residential construction, the minimum ceiling height in habitable

rooms is:

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

Rationale: The South Carolina Residential Code specifies minimum

ceiling heights for livable spaces.

• Which of the following types of footings is most commonly used for

single-family homes?

• Pile foundation
• Spread footing
• Raft foundation
• Caisson foundation

Rationale: Spread footings distribute the load over a wide area and

are standard for residential buildings.

8. The R-value of insulation indicates:

• The weight of the insulation
• The fire resistance rating
• The thermal resistance of the material
• The moisture absorption capacity 3 / 4

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

higher values mean better insulation.

• What is the primary purpose of flashing around windows and doors?
• To improve appearance
• To strengthen framing
• To prevent water infiltration
• To support insulation

Rationale: Flashing directs water away from openings, preventing

leaks and water damage.

10. A vapor barrier is installed to:

• Increase structural strength
• Reduce noise transmission
• Limit moisture movement into walls and ceilings
• Improve paint adhesion

Rationale: Vapor barriers help control condensation and prevent

mold growth in wall cavities.

• Which of the following framing methods uses closely spaced

vertical members with sheathing attached?

• Balloon framing
• Timber framing
• Platform framing
• Post-and-beam framing
• / 4