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Building Inspector Jobs in Richmond, VA (NOW HIRING)

ECS Ltd

Building & Code Compliance Inspector

Richmond, VA · On-site

$68K - $105K/yr

In this role, you'll lead a wide range of inspection and plan review projects while ensuring alignment with state and local building codes. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in ...

Hanover County, VA

Permit Technician (CD)

Hanover, VA · On-site

$39K - $55K/yr

Building Inspector's Office Opening Date: 07/09/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description General Description: Employees in this class facilitate the permitting and inspections process through direct ...

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All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Richmond, VA

Building Inspector information

See Richmond, VA salary details

$33.3K

$63.8K

$95.4K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Richmond, VA is $63,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Building Inspectors during site inspections?

Building Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing tight inspection schedules, staying updated with evolving building codes, and effectively communicating compliance issues to contractors and property owners. They may also have to navigate difficult weather conditions or access hard-to-reach areas on construction sites. Successfully balancing these demands requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to resolve compliance issues efficiently.

What does a Building Inspector do?

A Building Inspector is responsible for examining buildings, structures, and construction sites to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal codes and regulations. They review plans, issue permits, and conduct on-site inspections at various stages of construction or renovation. Their main goal is to ensure the safety, structural integrity, and accessibility of buildings for occupants and the public. Building Inspectors may also investigate complaints, issue violation notices, and advise on necessary corrections to bring properties up to code.

Are building inspectors in high demand?

Building inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation, and safety regulations across many regions. Employment for building inspectors is expected to grow as new building codes and standards are implemented, and inspectors often need certifications and knowledge of local building codes to qualify for jobs.

What exactly does a building inspector do?

A building inspector evaluates construction projects to ensure they comply with building codes, safety standards, and regulations. They examine structures during various phases of construction, review plans, and issue permits or violations as needed, often using tools like inspection checklists and requiring relevant certifications. Their work helps ensure buildings are safe, functional, and up to code.

What degree do you need to be a building inspector?

Building inspectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant post-secondary education such as an associate's degree or certificate in construction technology, architecture, or engineering. Many states also require passing a licensing exam and gaining work experience or certifications in building codes and safety standards.

What is the difference between Building Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectBuilding InspectorConstruction Inspector
Required CredentialsState or local licensing, certifications in building codesSimilar licensing, often with additional construction-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting residential, commercial, and public buildingsMonitoring construction sites, ensuring compliance during building phases
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, private firms, construction companiesConstruction firms, government agencies, project developers

Building Inspectors primarily review completed structures for code compliance, while Construction Inspectors oversee ongoing construction projects to ensure standards are met during building. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their focus differs in timing and scope.

What Is a Building Inspector?

A building inspector’s primary job responsibilities are to look at public buildings and ensure they are up to federal, state, and local codes. In this job, your duties are to look at the structural integrity, electrical wiring, water connections, and other aspects of the construction and make sure that everything works as it should and complies with all safety regulations. Inspectors have to know a variety of building disciplines and trades, or at least the laws related to them. For example, you have to know basic wiring codes and how to recognize a dangerous situation, such as broken or loose wiring, as well as general building hazards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Inspector, you need in-depth knowledge of building codes, construction practices, and safety regulations, typically backed by relevant certifications or formal education in construction or engineering. Familiarity with inspection management software, digital reporting tools, and sometimes licensing such as ICC certification is usually required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and impartial judgment are essential soft skills for ensuring accurate inspections and clear interactions with contractors and property owners. These skills and qualities are crucial because they help maintain safety standards, regulatory compliance, and trust in the built environment.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Building inspectors who specialize in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, or who hold advanced certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors with additional skills in areas like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems, and those working in high-demand regions or for large organizations, also typically earn more.
More about Building Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Richmond, VA? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Richmond, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Richmond, VA? For Building Inspector jobs in Richmond, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Richmond, VA are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities near Richmond, VA with the most Building Inspector job openings:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Richmond, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,777 per year, or $30.7 per hour.
Building Inspector II

Building Inspector II

Universal Engineering Sciences

Ashland, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Universal Engineering Sciences rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 442 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Building Inspector II to perform independent and complex building inspections, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. In this role, the Building Inspector II will be responsible for conducting advanced inspections, providing technical guidance to junior inspectors, and collaborating with project managers, contractors, and regulatory agencies to uphold compliance and quality standards.
This role requires technical expertise, strong decision-making abilities, and problem-solving skills in the field. The ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of building codes, and the ability to effectively enforce regulations while maintaining strong professional relationships.
Responsibilities
  • Perform structural building inspections for residential and commercial properties at various stages of construction, repair, remodeling, or expansion to ensure structural integrity and compliance with local, state, and federal building codes and ordinances.
  • Conduct specialized inspections related to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP), as licensed, ensuring compliance with applicable codes and safety regulations.
  • Review and interpret construction plans, blueprints, permits, and engineering reports to verify compliance with approved designs, geotechnical findings, and regulatory requirements.
  • Identify and document code violations, safety concerns, and areas requiring corrective action, providing clear guidance and recommendations to contractors, engineers, and project managers.
  • Conduct follow-up inspections to verify corrective actions have been implemented and that final compliance has been achieved.
  • Investigate complaints, structural concerns, and potential code violations, determining necessary corrective measures and making recommendations to stakeholders.
  • Prepare and present detailed inspection reports, including observations, diagrams, photos, and compliance recommendations, ensuring accuracy and clarity for internal teams, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
  • Maintain clear and timely communication with field supervisors, dispatching teams, and project stakeholders, providing real-time updates on job status, locations, and site-specific concerns.
  • Assist in reviewing permit applications and project documentation, ensuring completeness and accuracy before inspections.
  • Ensure project compliance with regulatory standards, quality requirements, and deadline expectations, working closely with project teams to resolve issues as they arise.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and job site regulations, ensuring compliance with OSHA, UES, and client-specific safety standards, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Stay up to date with evolving building codes, safety regulations, construction material standards, and industry best practices, participating in ongoing training and certification programs as required.
  • Operate and maintain a company-assigned motor vehicle, ensuring reliability for fieldwork through scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
  • Complete daily reports, time records, and inspection data in accordance with company policy, ensuring accurate documentation and timely submission.
  • May be responsible for mentoring and training junior building inspectors and new team members.
  • Be available to work flexible shifts, including varying schedules, weekends, and evenings, as required to meet project demands and client needs.
  • Travel to project sites as needed, often across varying terrains and environmental conditions, to conduct inspections and provide technical assessments.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support project goals and company initiatives.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent with 5+yrs of experience required.
  • Building Inspector License is required.
  • Certifications in mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), or plans examination (such as ICC, IAPMO, or equivalent) preferred; willingness to obtain additional certifications is encouraged.
  • Experience conducting field inspections in active construction environments, with the ability to navigate uneven terrain, climb ladders, and access confined spaces as needed.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building codes, with the ability to apply regulatory standards to inspections and compliance reviews.
  • Proficiency in using inspection-related technology, including Microsoft Office Suite, Field Data Collection (FDC) software, and mobile-based reporting tools.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and analyze blueprints, construction plans, specifications, technical manuals, and reports, ensuring compliance with approved designs and regulatory requirements.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and time management skills, with a high level of attention to detail to ensure accuracy and thorough documentation.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare professional reports, issue compliance notices, and interact effectively with contractors, engineers, project managers, and municipal officials.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, exercising sound judgment while also collaborating effectively with teams to ensure project success.
  • Commitment to safety protocols and regulatory compliance, ensuring adherence to OSHA, UES, and client-specific safety standards, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record and ability to travel to multiple job sites as needed.
  • Flexibility to travel within the designated region as required to support inspections, compliance efforts, and business operations.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends and evenings, based on project needs and client demands.

Preferred Qualifications
Required Certifications:
  • ICC B1, B2
  • ICC M1, M2
  • ICC P1, P2
  • ICC E1, E2
  • Fire 2
  • Commercial Energy Inspector

#LI-MD1
Travel Requirements
  • This position requires fieldwork travel up to 70% of the time, sometimes at short notice, to support business objectives and client engagements.
  • Travel will be to job sites, working invarious outdoor conditions, and adhering to company safety protocols.

Physical Demands & Work Environment
This position primarily works in an outdoor work environment, regularly exposed to varying field conditions, including:
  • Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, fields, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels, common in active construction and industrial environments.
  • Exposure to environmental elements including dirt, dust, sun, heat, humidity, and adverse weather conditions.
    The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling tools, and operating equipment.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for fieldwork and inspections.
  • Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate in noisy environments and with project teams.
  • Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vision, depth vision, and ability to focus) smell, hear, touch (use hands to reach climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit).

#LI-MD1
EEO Statement
UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here

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About Universal Engineering Sciences

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Engineering Sciences, based in Orlando, FL, US, is a reputable name in the field of geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, construction materials testing, and inspection services. With an impressive industry presence of over six decades since its establishment in 1964, Universal Engineering Sciences specializes in providing engineering consulting services that effectively address multiple civil, structural, and geotechnical challenges. Their extensive service portfolio includes environmental assessments, field testing services, laboratory testing services, and quality control consulting, among others. As a stalwart advocate of integrity, excellence, service, and people, Universal Engineering Sciences takes pride in delivering exceptional services that realize their mission of setting industry standards through technical superiority and efficient communication.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Orlando, FL, US

Year founded

1964

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