Essential Guide to Michigan Builders License
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
Created to serve as a complete, comprehensive code regulating the construction of single-
family, two-family and buildings consisting of three or more townhouse units. - ansIRC
(International Residential Code)
Administrative - ansFirst 2 chapters of code book are
True - ansPlans or supporting documents are almost always required by the controlling
authority prior to issuing a permit. T or F
Yes - ansDoes the building official have the authority to render interpretations of the code?
8 foot fence. - ansNone of the following require a permit, EXCEPT:
sidewalks and driveways
tiling
an 8 foot fence
playground equipment
False - ansTables and illustrations are always supported by information found in the written
code and footnotes. T or F
Live load. - ansThe amount of evenly distributed weight imposed by inhabitants, goods and
removable objects on a floor or roof system is referred to as
True. - ansIf a code requirement is in the book, it is both acceptable and enforceable by the
code official. T or F
Figures. - ansIllustrations are typically referred to as
Determine that buildings are built to the minimum enforceable standard. - ansGenerally
speaking, the building official's job is to
True. - ansIt is required that all manufacturer instructions be at the jobsite at the time of
inspection. T or F
Kitchen. - ansAll of the following are not considered habitable spaces EXCEPT:
bathrooms
kitchens
storage spaces
closets
3. - ansBathrooms must be provided with an aggregate glazing area no less than _____ square
feet, half of which must be openable.
44 inches. - ansThe maximum height of an egress window above the floor is
5.7 sq ft. - ansA basement bedroom must have an egress window with a clear opening of at
least ______ square feet.
3. - ansAt least one side-hinged exit door must be in each dwelling unit, and must be _____
feet wide.
30 inches. - ansA porch more than _____ inches above grade must be provided with 36"
guards.
200. - ansWall and ceiling finishes shall have a flame-spread classification of no more than
______ .
7 days. - ansAccording to code, concrete must reach at least 70% of it's ability within
____________days.
40%. - ansA stud used for a non-bearing partitions may not be notched more than ____% of
the stud width.
,Essential Guide to Michigan Builders License
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
Additions, alterations, renovation and repairs. - ansThe Michigan Uniform Energy code
applies to new buildings as well as
U-factor. - ans___________ is a measure of how well the window or door assembly conducts
heat. The lower the number, the better insulation the assembly will provide.
50%. - ansEnergy losses from recessed lighting fixtures can often reach ___% of the total
thermal loss of a ceiling.
R-3. - ansMichigan requires a minimum thermal resistance of ____________for mechanical
system piping.
True. - ansOversized HVAC equipment has a higher initial cost, a higher operating cost,
provides less comfort, and shorter life expectancy. T or F
Prescriptive Path. - ans_______ is the compliance route that applies Table 402.1.1 to building
envelope components, and is considered the most simple.
Area weighted averages. - ans___________ can be used to satisfy U-factor and SHGC
requirements.
IC (Insulation Contact) - ansRecessed lights must be _____ rated.
True. - ansUp to 15 square feet of glazing per dwelling unit is exempted from U-value
requirements. T or F
Registered design professional. - ansThe 2009 IECC requires a permanent certificate posted
on the electrical distribution panel. The certificate shall be completed by the builder or
State energy code requirements. - ansOne hurdle contractors face when bidding for an energy
efficient project is choosing materials that fit the design, and also meet
False. - ansHistorically significant buildings are not exempt from code changes. T or F
R-value
Settled thickness
Manufacturer name - ansInsulation products (blown and sprayed) must be documented with:
March 2011. - ansThe new Michigan codes took effect in
10. - ansBelow grade walls are insulated from the top of the basement wall down to _____
below grade, or the basement floor, whichever is less.
Area weighted average. - ansThe _______ is the combined Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of all
the glazed fenestration products in the building.
Thermal insulation R-values
Design criteria
Equipment systems - ansPlans and specifications must be detailed in regards to:
2009. - ansIn Michigan, the residential energy code is based on the _____ IECC, with certain
amendments.
Air leakage. - ans___________ is the rate of air infiltration in the presence of a specific
pressure differential.
Windows
Attic access hatches
Recessed lights - ansAir leakage is the random movement of air into and out of ________
through cracks and holes.
Table 402.1.1
2009 IECC - ansR-values for insulation and fenestration requirements by component can be
found in
,Essential Guide to Michigan Builders License
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
International Energy Conservation Code - ansIECC
U-factor and UA alternatives. - ansThe _____________ compliance method allows for more
innovative construction techniques like SIPs or Advanced Framing.
500 sq feet - ansR-30 is permitted in vaulted ceilings, but is limited to
True. - ansFloor insulation must be installed to maintain permanent and continuous contact
with the underside of the subfloor decking. T or F
5, 6 and 7. - ansMichigan falls into climate zones
False. - ansIt is permissible for supply ducts to be run through the framing cavities of a
residential building. T or F
IC rated (Insulation Contact) - ans__________ means an electrical fixture has been tested and
listed as suitable for installation in a cavity where the fixture may come in contact with
insulation.
3%. - ansAccording to the Dept. of Energy, improved energy codes could reduce CO2
emissions by
300 sq ft. - ansAttic insulation markers must be installed every _____ square feet.
True. - ansBuildings that are exempted from the new regulations are those with very low
energy use or ones that are neither heated or cooled. T or F
Yes. - ansA contractor needs to remove a non-load bearing wall, does he need to pull a
permit?
No. - ansA concrete contractor has been hired by an owner to install a driveway and
sidewalks. The lot is flat and the concrete is being place on undisturbed earth with a prepared
base. Does the contractor need to pull a permit?
Yes. - ansA permit has been issued for a building project and there is a code infraction in the
building plans that has been overlooked by the building official. Can the building official
require a correction to a project that they previously overlooked?
Health department. - ansWho issues a well and septic permit?
200 sq. feet.
IRC R105 - ansPermits are not required for one story detached accessory structures not
exceeding:
The next business day. - ansIf work requiring a permit is provided in an emergency situation,
the permit application must be submitted within:
True. - ansIf an inspection official is refused entry to a building project, the official will have
recourse to the remedies provided by law which include securing a warrant from the court
and returning with an officer of the law.
No.
IRC R104.8 - ansCan a building official be held liable for any damage occurring to persons
or property as a result of their actions or inaction?
Yes. - ansAn owner needs a foundation wall repaired, it has seriously buckled due to
excessive lateral loading from soil pressure. Does the contractor need to pull a permit?
6 ft.
IRC R105.2 - ansAlthough contractors should check for restrictive covenants and local
zoning requirements, a permit isn't required from the building official for installing a fence
not over _______ tall.
, Essential Guide to Michigan Builders License
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
180 days. - ansIf a permit is applied for but not yet approved and the applicant is not
persueing approval after______ days the application will be considered abandoned.
Yes. - ansCan a building official revoke a Certificate of Occupancy?
True. - ansWhen a project requiring a permit has commenced prior to the issuance of a
permit, the building official is authorized to charge an additional fee. T or F
450 - ansFoam plastic is used as insulation. The flame spread index cannot exceed 75 and the
smoke development index cannot exceed
8". - ansFoam plastic used for interior trim shall have a maximum thickness of 1/2" and a
maximum width of
10%. - ansFoam plastic interior trim must not constitute more than __________ of the total
wall and ceiling area of any room or space.
1/2". - ansFoam plastic used as insulation in walls must be separated by an approved thermal
barrier. What is the minimum thickness of gypsum wall board being used as a thermal barrier
for spray foam insulated walls?
Framing. - ansWhich of these inspections happens last?
Mechanical rough
Plumbing rough
Framing
Electrical rough
Yes. - ansA retaining wall will be five feet tall from the bottom of the footing to the top of the
wall. Do you need to pull a permit?
At the time of inspection. - ansYour building is utilizing engineered products such as
engineered floor joists. When do the installation instructions need to be available at the work
site?
1 3/8" solid wood
1 3/8" honeycomb core
20 minute fire rated
Any of the above - ansA door directly between a garage and a residence shall never open
directly into a sleeping room. The door must also be
1 1/4" - ansThe nosing for stairs shall not be less than 3/4" but not be more than
No. - ansA front porch is 25 inches above the grade below. Are guards required to be
installed?
False. - ansIf a smoke alarm is in a bedroom, it doesn't need to be right outside the bedroom
also.
1/2" - ansIf spray foam insulation is used to insulate a wall, what is the minimum thickness of
drywall needed to cover the foam plastic?
200 - ansFinishing materials used for walls and ceiling shall have a flame-spread index not to
exceed
No. - ansWood joists are 19" above exposed ground. Do they have to be preservative treated
or naturally durable wood?
True. - ansYou may bulldoze, grade and remove tree stumps in a wetland as long as you have
a permit.
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
Created to serve as a complete, comprehensive code regulating the construction of single-
family, two-family and buildings consisting of three or more townhouse units. - ansIRC
(International Residential Code)
Administrative - ansFirst 2 chapters of code book are
True - ansPlans or supporting documents are almost always required by the controlling
authority prior to issuing a permit. T or F
Yes - ansDoes the building official have the authority to render interpretations of the code?
8 foot fence. - ansNone of the following require a permit, EXCEPT:
sidewalks and driveways
tiling
an 8 foot fence
playground equipment
False - ansTables and illustrations are always supported by information found in the written
code and footnotes. T or F
Live load. - ansThe amount of evenly distributed weight imposed by inhabitants, goods and
removable objects on a floor or roof system is referred to as
True. - ansIf a code requirement is in the book, it is both acceptable and enforceable by the
code official. T or F
Figures. - ansIllustrations are typically referred to as
Determine that buildings are built to the minimum enforceable standard. - ansGenerally
speaking, the building official's job is to
True. - ansIt is required that all manufacturer instructions be at the jobsite at the time of
inspection. T or F
Kitchen. - ansAll of the following are not considered habitable spaces EXCEPT:
bathrooms
kitchens
storage spaces
closets
3. - ansBathrooms must be provided with an aggregate glazing area no less than _____ square
feet, half of which must be openable.
44 inches. - ansThe maximum height of an egress window above the floor is
5.7 sq ft. - ansA basement bedroom must have an egress window with a clear opening of at
least ______ square feet.
3. - ansAt least one side-hinged exit door must be in each dwelling unit, and must be _____
feet wide.
30 inches. - ansA porch more than _____ inches above grade must be provided with 36"
guards.
200. - ansWall and ceiling finishes shall have a flame-spread classification of no more than
______ .
7 days. - ansAccording to code, concrete must reach at least 70% of it's ability within
____________days.
40%. - ansA stud used for a non-bearing partitions may not be notched more than ____% of
the stud width.
,Essential Guide to Michigan Builders License
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
Additions, alterations, renovation and repairs. - ansThe Michigan Uniform Energy code
applies to new buildings as well as
U-factor. - ans___________ is a measure of how well the window or door assembly conducts
heat. The lower the number, the better insulation the assembly will provide.
50%. - ansEnergy losses from recessed lighting fixtures can often reach ___% of the total
thermal loss of a ceiling.
R-3. - ansMichigan requires a minimum thermal resistance of ____________for mechanical
system piping.
True. - ansOversized HVAC equipment has a higher initial cost, a higher operating cost,
provides less comfort, and shorter life expectancy. T or F
Prescriptive Path. - ans_______ is the compliance route that applies Table 402.1.1 to building
envelope components, and is considered the most simple.
Area weighted averages. - ans___________ can be used to satisfy U-factor and SHGC
requirements.
IC (Insulation Contact) - ansRecessed lights must be _____ rated.
True. - ansUp to 15 square feet of glazing per dwelling unit is exempted from U-value
requirements. T or F
Registered design professional. - ansThe 2009 IECC requires a permanent certificate posted
on the electrical distribution panel. The certificate shall be completed by the builder or
State energy code requirements. - ansOne hurdle contractors face when bidding for an energy
efficient project is choosing materials that fit the design, and also meet
False. - ansHistorically significant buildings are not exempt from code changes. T or F
R-value
Settled thickness
Manufacturer name - ansInsulation products (blown and sprayed) must be documented with:
March 2011. - ansThe new Michigan codes took effect in
10. - ansBelow grade walls are insulated from the top of the basement wall down to _____
below grade, or the basement floor, whichever is less.
Area weighted average. - ansThe _______ is the combined Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of all
the glazed fenestration products in the building.
Thermal insulation R-values
Design criteria
Equipment systems - ansPlans and specifications must be detailed in regards to:
2009. - ansIn Michigan, the residential energy code is based on the _____ IECC, with certain
amendments.
Air leakage. - ans___________ is the rate of air infiltration in the presence of a specific
pressure differential.
Windows
Attic access hatches
Recessed lights - ansAir leakage is the random movement of air into and out of ________
through cracks and holes.
Table 402.1.1
2009 IECC - ansR-values for insulation and fenestration requirements by component can be
found in
,Essential Guide to Michigan Builders License
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
International Energy Conservation Code - ansIECC
U-factor and UA alternatives. - ansThe _____________ compliance method allows for more
innovative construction techniques like SIPs or Advanced Framing.
500 sq feet - ansR-30 is permitted in vaulted ceilings, but is limited to
True. - ansFloor insulation must be installed to maintain permanent and continuous contact
with the underside of the subfloor decking. T or F
5, 6 and 7. - ansMichigan falls into climate zones
False. - ansIt is permissible for supply ducts to be run through the framing cavities of a
residential building. T or F
IC rated (Insulation Contact) - ans__________ means an electrical fixture has been tested and
listed as suitable for installation in a cavity where the fixture may come in contact with
insulation.
3%. - ansAccording to the Dept. of Energy, improved energy codes could reduce CO2
emissions by
300 sq ft. - ansAttic insulation markers must be installed every _____ square feet.
True. - ansBuildings that are exempted from the new regulations are those with very low
energy use or ones that are neither heated or cooled. T or F
Yes. - ansA contractor needs to remove a non-load bearing wall, does he need to pull a
permit?
No. - ansA concrete contractor has been hired by an owner to install a driveway and
sidewalks. The lot is flat and the concrete is being place on undisturbed earth with a prepared
base. Does the contractor need to pull a permit?
Yes. - ansA permit has been issued for a building project and there is a code infraction in the
building plans that has been overlooked by the building official. Can the building official
require a correction to a project that they previously overlooked?
Health department. - ansWho issues a well and septic permit?
200 sq. feet.
IRC R105 - ansPermits are not required for one story detached accessory structures not
exceeding:
The next business day. - ansIf work requiring a permit is provided in an emergency situation,
the permit application must be submitted within:
True. - ansIf an inspection official is refused entry to a building project, the official will have
recourse to the remedies provided by law which include securing a warrant from the court
and returning with an officer of the law.
No.
IRC R104.8 - ansCan a building official be held liable for any damage occurring to persons
or property as a result of their actions or inaction?
Yes. - ansAn owner needs a foundation wall repaired, it has seriously buckled due to
excessive lateral loading from soil pressure. Does the contractor need to pull a permit?
6 ft.
IRC R105.2 - ansAlthough contractors should check for restrictive covenants and local
zoning requirements, a permit isn't required from the building official for installing a fence
not over _______ tall.
, Essential Guide to Michigan Builders License
Exam.
A Comprehensive Exam Study Guide 100%
Verified and Certified by Expert
Latest Updated Guide 2025/2026
180 days. - ansIf a permit is applied for but not yet approved and the applicant is not
persueing approval after______ days the application will be considered abandoned.
Yes. - ansCan a building official revoke a Certificate of Occupancy?
True. - ansWhen a project requiring a permit has commenced prior to the issuance of a
permit, the building official is authorized to charge an additional fee. T or F
450 - ansFoam plastic is used as insulation. The flame spread index cannot exceed 75 and the
smoke development index cannot exceed
8". - ansFoam plastic used for interior trim shall have a maximum thickness of 1/2" and a
maximum width of
10%. - ansFoam plastic interior trim must not constitute more than __________ of the total
wall and ceiling area of any room or space.
1/2". - ansFoam plastic used as insulation in walls must be separated by an approved thermal
barrier. What is the minimum thickness of gypsum wall board being used as a thermal barrier
for spray foam insulated walls?
Framing. - ansWhich of these inspections happens last?
Mechanical rough
Plumbing rough
Framing
Electrical rough
Yes. - ansA retaining wall will be five feet tall from the bottom of the footing to the top of the
wall. Do you need to pull a permit?
At the time of inspection. - ansYour building is utilizing engineered products such as
engineered floor joists. When do the installation instructions need to be available at the work
site?
1 3/8" solid wood
1 3/8" honeycomb core
20 minute fire rated
Any of the above - ansA door directly between a garage and a residence shall never open
directly into a sleeping room. The door must also be
1 1/4" - ansThe nosing for stairs shall not be less than 3/4" but not be more than
No. - ansA front porch is 25 inches above the grade below. Are guards required to be
installed?
False. - ansIf a smoke alarm is in a bedroom, it doesn't need to be right outside the bedroom
also.
1/2" - ansIf spray foam insulation is used to insulate a wall, what is the minimum thickness of
drywall needed to cover the foam plastic?
200 - ansFinishing materials used for walls and ceiling shall have a flame-spread index not to
exceed
No. - ansWood joists are 19" above exposed ground. Do they have to be preservative treated
or naturally durable wood?
True. - ansYou may bulldoze, grade and remove tree stumps in a wetland as long as you have
a permit.
