Final answer:
Home inspectors following InterNACHI® Standards of Practice are not required to inspect fireplace hearth extensions, but it's important for safety to ensure they are properly installed.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the InterNACHI® (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) Home Inspection Standards of Practice, inspectors are not explicitly required to inspect fireplace hearth extensions. However, it's crucial to note that a home inspector's job is to ensure that important components of a home are properly installed and functioning correctly to avoid potential hazards.
When it comes to fireplace hearth extensions, their primary purpose is to prevent sparks or embers from igniting nearby combustibles which can be a significant safety concern. A wood stove or other efficient device is often assumed to be present to prevent most heat from escaping through the chimney. If a hearth extension is improperly sized or constructed, it may not serve its purpose effectively, thereby presenting a safety risk.