Which action is NOT required of a home inspector during an inspection?

The action that is not required of a home inspector during an inspection is the operation of main shut-off valves. While home inspectors have specific responsibilities and tasks they must perform, operating main shut-off valves is not typically one of them due to various reasons.

Shutting off the main water supply can lead to complications, such as potential damage to plumbing systems, interruption of service, or issues with water pressure. It can also pose risks for the inspector, as they might inadvertently create situations where leaks could occur or where they might not be able to restore the system to its original state during the inspection period. Therefore, inspectors generally focus on observing the installation and condition of the valves rather than operating them.

In contrast, operating all plumbing fixtures is a necessary part of assessing their functionality, observing functional flow helps determine if water drains properly throughout the home, and describing water heating equipment ensures that the inspector provides a complete overview of the systems present. Thus, while the other actions are integral to a thorough inspection, operating main shut-off valves is not a required task for home inspectors.