Why Most People Fail the House BCIN Exam
- Vijaykumar Patel
- 7 days ago
- 10 min read
If you are preparing for the House BCIN exam, you are not alone — and you are definitely not the first person to feel overwhelmed by the Ontario Building Code 😵💫.
Every year, many qualified students, designers, contractors, and technologists fail the House BCIN exam, not because they lack knowledge, but because they prepare the wrong way.
In this blog, I’ll explain why candidates fail the House BCIN exam and share proven strategies that can help you pass confidently on your first attempt ✅.
What Is the House BCIN Exam? 🏠
The House BCIN (BCIN House) exam is required if you want to:
Design houses in Ontario
Submit drawings to municipalities 🏛️
Work as a qualified designer under the Ontario Building Code (OBC)
Get a job as a Building Inspector or Plan Examiner in a municipality.
The exam is open-book, but don’t let that fool you.
👉 Speed, strategy, and code navigation matter far more than memorization.
The Ontario Building Code comprises hundreds of pages, and the two-volume set exceeds 2,300 pages. 📚
If you don’t know how to find answers quickly, the exam can feel like a nightmare.
Hack #1 – Understand “SHALL” vs “MAY” (Very Important)
🔑 Key Rule:
“Shall” = Mandatory
“May” = Optional / Permitted
“Shall not” = Prohibited
📝 Sample Question:
A floor drain shall be installed in a public washroom containing an automatic flushing device.
✅ This is mandatory, not optional.
Hack #2 – Same Thing, Different Words (Code Vocabulary Trap)
The BCIN exam LOVES synonyms.
Common Word = Code Word
Drywall = Gypsum board
Washroom = Water closet compartment
Sink = Lavatory
Basement = Story below grade
Window glass = Glazing
FRR Wall = Fire Resistance Rating
Ceiling panel = Suspended ceiling system
Roof hatch = Access opening / Roof access
Light fixture = Luminaire
Heating system = HVAC / Mechanical system
Floor drain = Hub drain / Floor receptor
Exterior wall = Building envelope / Façade
Stud wall = Partition wall / Non-loadbearing wall
Insulation = Thermal barrier / Batt insulation
Concrete slab = Floor slab / Structural slab
Crawl space = Service space / Access space
While reading your syllabus, I noticed that recognizing these kinds of terms can help you understand exam questions much faster during your attempt.
Hack #3 – Use CTRL + F Like a Pro
❌ Wrong Way:
Reading paragraphs line by line
Randomly searching sections
✅ Right Way:
Use Ctrl + F to search for a unique phrase or keyword, not a common word.
🔍 Pro Tips:
Search by sentence numbers if provided:
Example: 3.7.4.13
Search for meaningful keywords from the question to quickly locate the reference.
Example: If the question mentions a “stair guard load,” search “guard load” instead of just “stair,” because common words like “stair” may appear hundreds of times and slow you down.
Check spelling carefully – even one wrong letter can return zero results.
Start with longer keywords/phrases; if too few or zero results appear, try shortening the keyword slightly to get a manageable number of hits.
Even if you prefer offline code books, using online code during exams helps find theoretical questions super fast.
Avoid very common words – they generate too many hits and waste time.
💡 Example:
Question: “Minimum guard height for a public corridor?”
❌ Wrong search: stair → 950 hits
✅ Correct search: guard height → direct reference found quickly
🔎 Hack: Funnel Your Search
Start with your keyword:
Example: guard heights → 20 results
Think logically where it should be:
Which Division? Part 1–9?
Example: If the question is for a house, it’s Part 9.
Now, instead of 20 results, you are down to 3 relevant hits in Part 9 → read quickly.
Use numbers or standards as keywords:
Example: CAN/CSA 40.1
Standards and sentence numbers are unique and precise, so you can locate the exact reference immediately.
Hack #4 – Keywords That Decide the Answer
Always underline or mentally highlight these words:
Except
Not more than
At least
Not less than
Unless
Where
Provided that
🧠 Exam Trick:
The correct answer is often the one that respects the exception.
Example:
Question: “Balconies must be at least 1.2 m above grade except for projecting balconies.”
✅ Correct answer: Recognizes the exception and applies it correctly.
Hack #5 – Time Management Strategy (Game Changer)
Total time per question: ~3 minutes on average (Total questions 60 & Total Exam time 3hrs)
⚠️ You cannot spend the same time on every question
Panic kills accuracy
Recommended Strategy
1️⃣ First Pass – Quick Wins
Answer easy/common-sense questions immediately (no code lookup needed)
Skip long calculation questions for now.
2️⃣ Second Pass – Code Lookup
Focus on questions that require building code reference.
Use Ctrl + F for fast searching
3️⃣ Final Pass – Recheck
Go through flagged questions.
Never leave blanks
🧠 Exam Rule
One stuck question can cost you 3 easy ones.
Each question is worth 1 mark only.
Aim to answer 60% confidently.
Random guesses are okay to secure an extra 10% needed to pass.
💡 Pro Tip: Prioritize confidence over perfection—speed + accuracy beats overthinking!
Hack #6 – Simulate Real Exam Conditions
✔ Use only 1 screen
Screen 1: Exam questions
Other tab: Building code references
⚠️ Do not use 2 screens during practice—train like the real exam
✔ Set a real timer
Stick to the same time limits as the actual exam.
✔ No distractions
No phone, no notes, no extra help
✔ Practice effectively
Use mixed topics
Questions in random order
Practice at real exam difficulty
👉 Pro Tip:
Your brain must experience exam pressure before the actual day.
Our quiz portal lets you practice exactly like the real exam, with results, feedback, and guidance.
🌟 Why Use Our Portal?
Mobile-friendly – practice anytime, anywhere.
2024 Building Code-based – fully up-to-date
Real-world scenario exams – questions reflect practical situations.
Pro-level suggestions – tips and tricks to maximize your score
Step-by-step calculations – all numeric problems explained clearly
Tricky questions included – learn how to tackle the questions that often confuse students.
👉 Practice smart, understand deeply, and build exam confidence before the real day.
Hack #7 – Division A Is Your Best Friend
Most candidates ignore Division A.
Smart candidates master it.
Why?
Objectives (OP, OS)
Functional Statements (F20, F22)
Definitions
Alternative Solutions logic
🧠 Exam Tip:
If asked:
“Which Objective or Functional Statement applies?”
👉 Volume 2 – SA‑1 tables are your shortcut.
Hack #8 – Don’t Ignore Supplementary Standards
Why: Sometimes 30% or more of exam questions come directly from Supplementary Standards
Many candidates lose easy marks because they skip them.
Supplementary Standards to focus on:
SB-1, SB-2, SB-3 … SB-12
✔ Strategy:
Read and understand all relevant Supplementary Standards.
Practice questions from these sections regularly
👉 Pro Tip:
Our platform includes important questions from all Supplementary Standards, so you can practice and gain confidence in these often-overlooked sections.
Hack #9 – Practice Image-Based Questions
Exam Reality:
Often, a single image (site plan, floor plan, or diagram) is provided
5–6 questions are based on that one image
❌ If you get one answer wrong, chances are others are wrong too
Why Candidates Struggle:
Many never practice with images.
They are not expecting this type of question.
✔ Strategy:
Practice with similar image-based questions
Focus on interpreting plans, layouts, and diagrams.
Example:
Given a site plan, the exam may ask:
What % of the glazing is approved
What is the total wall area?
How many square meters of glazing can be provided?
👉 Pro Tip:
Our platform provides realistic, image-based questions, allowing you to practice and gain confidence in these challenging multi-question scenarios.
Hack #10 – Bathroom & Water Management
Exam Reality:
Real exam: 3 hours, 60 MCQs (~3 min per question)
Washroom breaks are allowed, but the timer does not stop.
Losing 10 minutes can cost you 4+ questions.
Home/Office Exam Challenges:
Showing rooms, showing ID, and waiting can take extra time
Managing breaks efficiently is crucial.
✔ Strategy:
Practice 60 MCQs in 3 hours to simulate real exam pace.
Use a transparent water bottle only (allowed in exam)
Decide:
Take a break strategically before long questions
Or practice without breaks to train your stamina
Know how to manage time if you need to step out
👉 Pro Tip:
Our portal simulates real exam conditions:
3-hour timer, 60 MCQs, pass mark 70%
Practice on 1 screen multiple times to build confidence before the actual exam
Hack #11 – Practice with Small Paper
Exam Reality:
Only at the exam center, they may provide A5-sized paper for notes (not at home /office)
Paper may be limited to 1–2 sheets, and you often have to step out to get more.
This can consume precious time during a 3-hour exam.
✔ Strategy:
Practice at home using a small diary/A5 paper.
Train yourself to take quick, concise notes.
Learn to plan your calculations or sketches efficiently.
Pro Tip:
You can ask the exam center if multiple sheets are allowed, but don’t rely on it.
Practicing at home ensures you’re ready for limited paper situations.
Hack #12 – Use Digital & Physical Code Together (Smartly)
Physical Code Strategy:
Create a separate binder/file with only your exam syllabus.
Remove unnecessary sections so you don’t waste time flipping pages.
You are allowed to:
Highlight important lines
Add sticky notes
Draw diagrams
Write notes freely
💡 Pro Tip:
Write calculation steps beside tables (e.g., glazing %, occupant load, fire separations)
This way, you don’t need to memories formulas—just follow your own steps.
Digital Code Strategy:
At an exam center, the digital code is opened for you in a separate browser.
You can use Ctrl + F for fast searching.
If writing the exam from home, you can open the digital code directly on your computer.
🧠 Why This Works:
Physical code = thinking & calculations
Digital code = speed & searching
Together, they save time, reduce stress, and improve accuracy.
Hack #13 – Use the Index (Most Students Ignore This!)
Hidden Advantage:
At the end of Volume 1, the Index lists keywords with exact OBC references.
Many students don’t use it, but it can save a lot of time.
How to Use It:
Example: You need to find the guard height
You already know the building falls under Part 9
The Index may give you references such as:
9.10.20.4
9.2.4.3
9.26.3.5
Now you only need to check 3–4 exact sentences, instead of searching the whole code.
Hidden Advantage:
At the end of Volume 1, the Index lists keywords with exact OBC references.
Many students don’t use it, but it can save a lot of time.
How to Use It:
Example: You need to find the guard height
You already know the building falls under Part 9
The Index may give you references such as:
9.10.20.4
9.2.4.3
9.26.3.5
Now you only need to check 3–4 exact sentences, instead of searching the whole code.
Hack #14 – Scan for Numbers First
Strategy for Calculation/Value Questions:
Focus on the numbers provided in the answer choices first.
Example:
Answer options:
a) 0.01 m/day
b) 0.02 m/day
c) 0.015 m/day
d) 0.025 m/day
How to Approach:
Identify the relevant section in the code that deals with the type of number (e.g., flow rate, percolation rate)
Look specifically for units mentioned in the answers (m/day, L/s, sqm)
Once you find the numeric value, read the sentence fully to confirm correctness.
How to Approach:
Identify the relevant section in the code that deals with the type of number (e.g., flow rate, percolation rate)
Look specifically for units mentioned in the answers (m/day, L/s, sqm)
Once you find the numeric value, read the sentence fully to confirm correctness.
Why This Works:
Saves time by avoiding unnecessary reading
Guides you directly to the target value
Reduces errors from overthinking
Hack #15 – Master Tables for Joists & Beams
Exam Reality:
Part 9 includes tables for roof joist size, ceiling joist size, floor joist size, and beams.
Many candidates waste time flipping pages during calculations.
✔ Strategy:
On the first table page, write down:
Short names of all tables
Page numbers
This lets you jump directly to the correct table during the exam.
Practice calculating joist and beam sizes quickly
Pro Tip:
Our portal has special quizzes focused on these table-based calculations.
Practice these regularly to become proficient and fast.
🧠 Why It Works:
Reduces time spent searching tables
Ensures accuracy in numeric calculations
Builds exam confidence for structural questions
Final Advice for House BCIN Candidates ✅
Reading strategies is important—but practice is what builds confidence.
If you want to experience House BCIN exam-style questions, realistic timing, and explanations that show how to think, structured practice can make a big difference.
Many candidates find that practicing under real exam conditions helps them:
Improve speed
Reduce stress
Understand how questions are framed
If that sounds helpful, explore focused House BCIN practice options and train the way the exam expects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the House BCIN exam hard?
A: The exam is manageable if you know how to navigate the Ontario Building Code and practice under real exam conditions. Compared to the Small Building, Large Building, or Complex Building exams, the House BCIN exam is the easiest.
Q: How many questions are on the House BCIN exam?
A: The exam typically includes 60 multiple-choice questions over 3 hours.
Q: Is the House BCIN exam open-book?
A: Yes, but speed and search strategy matter more than memorization.
Q: Who should write the House BCIN exam?
A: The House BCIN exam is suitable for:
Students in construction or building programs
Designers and draftspersons
Contractors and builders
Technologists and inspectors
Anyone with no relevant background
Q: What is the passing mark for the House BCIN exam?
The passing score for the House BCIN exam is 70%. You get approximately 3 minutes per question. Time management is critical to success.
Q: Can I fail the House BCIN exam even if I know the code?
A: Yes. Many candidates fail because:
They spend too much time searching.
They misinterpret keywords
They panic under time pressure.
Knowing how the exam works is just as important as knowing the code.
Q: Do I need to memorize the Ontario Building Code for House BCIN?
No. Memorization is not required. The exam tests your ability to locate, interpret, and apply code requirements.
Q: How long should I study for the House BCIN exam?
Study time varies, but most candidates prepare for 4–8 weeks, focusing on:
Code navigation
Practice questions
Time management
Can I write the House BCIN exam online from home?
Yes. The House BCIN exam can be written online or at an exam center, depending on availability and registration.
What is the biggest mistake House BCIN candidates make?
The biggest mistakes include:
Skipping Supplementary Standards
Not practicing under timed conditions.
Treating the exam like a reading test
Is practice more important than reading for the House BCIN exam?
Yes. Practice builds speed and confidence, while reading alone often leads to slow performance during the exam.
*Please note that the information shared in our blog is for educational purposes only, and we do not assume any liability for the actions or decisions made based on this information.
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