Which of the following is a limitation on what an inspector may evaluate?

The presence of buried fuel tanks is a limitation on what an inspector may evaluate because inspectors typically have restrictions regarding the scope of their examination. Depending on local regulations and safety protocols, the ability to assess areas that are underground or concealed—such as buried fuel tanks—may not be feasible without specialized equipment or permits. Inspectors are often required to observe only visible infrastructure unless there is access to areas that contain such installations. In addition, inspecting buried tanks usually requires knowledge of and adherence to specific environmental regulations, which may necessitate the involvement of specialized professionals.

On the other hand, the condition of a home's foundation, distance from the property line, and the efficiency of existing appliances are usually within the capabilities of a standard inspection. Home inspectors generally assess visible structures, including foundations, and property boundaries are often ascertainable through visual inspection. Similarly, assessing appliance efficiency typically falls well within the inspector's role and scope of practice. Therefore, the presence of buried fuel tanks distinctly represents a limitation due to the challenges and risks associated with inspecting concealed or underground systems.