North Carolina Home Inspector Practice Exam

Raised floor surfaces, porches, and balconies located more than 30 inches above floor or grade below shall have guard rails not less than ____ inches in height.

1. 24"

2. 30"

3. 36"

4. 42"

The correct answer is: 36"

In North Carolina, safety regulations stipulate that raised floor surfaces, porches, and balconies that are more than 30 inches above the ground must have guard rails that are at least 36 inches high. This height requirement is designed to provide adequate protection against falls, ensuring that individuals using these structures are secure. The 36-inch height is based on building code standards that take into account the average height of an adult and the potential for leaning over the edge. This guideline helps to minimize the risk of accidents, particularly in residential buildings where such elevated surfaces are common. Understanding this regulation is crucial for home inspectors, as part of their role is to ensure that safety standards are being met. Knowledge of these height requirements helps inspectors identify non-compliant guard rails during their assessments, contributing to the overall safety and security of the property.