Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

Exterior walls should be inspected at least how often?

1. Once a month

2. Once every year

3. Once every three months

4. Once every six months

The correct answer is: Once every six months

Inspecting exterior walls at least once every six months is crucial for maintaining the integrity and longevity of a building. This frequency allows facility managers to identify and address potential issues before they escalate, which can lead to costly repairs and safety hazards. Regular inspections help detect signs of wear, water infiltration, cracks, or damage from environmental factors, ensuring that necessary maintenance and repairs are performed in a timely manner. While inspecting more frequently, such as once a month or every three months, can be beneficial in high-risk areas or during certain seasons, a six-month interval strikes a balance between maintaining vigilance and managing resources effectively. Annual inspections may not catch problems early enough, potentially allowing minor issues to develop into significant concerns. Thus, a six-month inspection routine is widely recommended in facility management practices for exterior walls.