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Building Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

PEG LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$47K/yr

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

PEG LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Manassas, VA · On-site

$47K/yr

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

PEG

Building Energy Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

PEG

Building Energy Inspector

Manassas, VA · On-site

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

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All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC

Building Inspector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$40.6K

$77.8K

$116.3K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Washington, DC is $77,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $91,500.00 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.

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.
More about Building Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Washington, DC? For Building Inspector jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Washington, DC are:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Washington, DC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 10% Full Time, 87% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,776 per year, or $37.4 per hour.
Commercial Building Inspector

Commercial Building Inspector

Institute for Building Technology and Safety

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities

Inspects the construction, alteration, or repair of commercial and residential buildings, and other structures for compliance with applicable codes and standards.

** PLEASE NOTE - the worksite areas are in Metro DC, and Northern Virginia **

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Performs field inspection of structures and infrastructure during various stages of construction to ascertain compliance with the approved plans, specifications, product manufacturers' instructions and applicable construction codes.
  • Provides information relating to construction codes; assists architects, engineers, contractors and others in interpreting code requirements.
  • Prepares and maintains forms, records, and reports relative to inspection activities.
  • Ability to work in a team environment or independently.
  • Reviews plans for code compliance.
  • May perform other related duties as required.
Qualifications
  • ICC certification as a Commercial Inspector in at least two of the following disciplines is required: Building, Mechanical, Electrical or Plumbing; equivalent state certifications.
  • Five (5) years of experience in the engineering, inspection, construction, or building trades.
  • Ability to apply knowledge of building codes during the inspection process and report on compliance of complex construction projects.
  • Possession and maintenance of a valid driver's license and a safe driving record.
  • Travel Required: anticipated up to 75%; primarily local (currently primarily to Northern, VA and Washington, DC)

Personal QualitiesIBTS places a high value on certain personal traits that work toward creating a positive,professional, and supportive work environment, which is essential for working together and achieving success. We believe "how" you achieve your results is as important as what you achieve. The following highlights the personal traits key for success within the organization.

  • Strong Work Ethic
  • Teachable/Continuous Learner
  • Reliable/Dependable
  • Collaborative/Team Contributor
Company Overview

Bring your passion, expertise, and experience to IBTS, where we appreciate and are committed to our employees. We offer outstanding benefits, growth opportunities, and work hard to maintain a culture that values our employees. 

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization established to provide unbiased professional building code compliance services, while enhancing the communities in which we work. At IBTS, our mission is to deliver quality services to meet the challenges of governance at all levels while enhancing public safety, economic development, and the general welfare of the community. Our services include Building and Community Development, Energy and Sustainability Services, Disaster Planning and Recovery, Quality Assurance, as well as Compliance and Risk Monitoring.

IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, VA, with additional offices in Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Puerto Rico, and Washington, DC.

We are committed to building a community of experts with diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives who are passionate about our mission. IBTS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer that maintains a diverse and inclusive workforce.  All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or sexual orientation. This opportunity is open to Section S3 Residents.  Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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Employment Type: OTHER

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