Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

Which of the following statements about the design of openings in foundation walls is true?

1. They can be any size as long as they are on different sides.

2. They must allow floodwaters to enter and exit automatically.

3. The total net area can be less than 1 square foot.

4. They cannot be placed above ground level.

The correct answer is: They must allow floodwaters to enter and exit automatically.

The statement that openings in foundation walls must allow floodwaters to enter and exit automatically is true because it adheres to the design requirements set forth for structures located in flood-prone areas. The purpose of these openings, often referred to as flood vents, is to minimize the hydrostatic pressure that floodwaters can exert on the walls of a building. When floodwaters are allowed to enter and exit freely, it helps prevent structural damage by balancing the pressure on both sides of the foundation wall. This automatic equalization of pressure reduces the risk of foundation failure during flooding events. In contrast, the other statements are not aligned with best practices for floodplain construction. For example, there are specific sizing requirements for openings to ensure they function properly; these openings typically cannot be arbitrary in size without meeting necessary code requirements. Additionally, the total net area of the openings must meet specific minimum criteria to ensure effective flood venting, rather than being less than a square foot. Lastly, while openings can be strategically placed, they often need to be at or above the ground level to ensure proper water drainage and to comply with safety codes.