Residential Building Inspector Practice Exam

What is the maximum slope allowed for the bottom of footings?

1. 1 unit vertical to 5 units horizontal

2. 1 unit vertical to 7 units horizontal

3. 1 unit vertical to 10 units horizontal

4. 1 unit vertical to 12 units horizontal

The correct answer is: 1 unit vertical to 10 units horizontal

The maximum slope allowed for the bottom of footings is indeed 1 unit vertical to 10 units horizontal. This guideline is in place to ensure proper support and stability of the footings beneath a structure. When footings are installed, they must provide a solid base to distribute the weight of the building evenly across the soil. A maximum slope of 1 to 10 means that for every 1 unit of vertical depth, the footing can extend horizontally up to 10 units. This gentle slope helps to minimize the risk of soil erosion or movement beneath the footing which could compromise the integrity of the structure. Steeper slopes could lead to instability, increasing the likelihood of settlement or failure over time. Understanding these parameters helps ensure that all aspects of the building's foundation are within safe and effective limits as prescribed by building codes and engineering best practices.