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Housing Inspector Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

$90 - $150/hr

HQS, NSPIRE, Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor, or related housing compliance certifications preferred. * Must maintain a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, acceptable driving record ...

THE SALVATION ARMY

Housing Monitor (7283)

Florence, AL · On-site

$11.55/hr

Sunday-Saturday, varied shifts from 3:00pm-8:00am, 40 hours a week The Salvation Army, an internationally recognized non-profit, faith-based organization, has a job opening for an overnight Housing ...

THE SALVATION ARMY

Housing Monitor (7283)

Florence, AL · On-site

$11.55/hr

Sunday-Saturday, varied shifts from 3:00pm-8:00am, 40 hours a week The Salvation Army, an internationally recognized non-profit, faith-based organization, has a job opening for an overnight Housing ...

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All JobsHousing Inspector JobsHousing Inspector Jobs in Alabama

Housing Inspector information

See Alabama salary details

$30.4K

$51.1K

$89.7K

How much do housing inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for housing inspector in Alabama is $51,111.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $57,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a housing inspector?

A housing inspector evaluates the quality of construction systems in homes, typically during the buying or selling process. As a housing inspector, your job duties include examining the appliances, windows, walls and foundation, electrical systems, plumbing systems, HVAC systems, and radon levels to make sure that the home meets building codes and requirements for residential buildings. After your inspection is complete, you must prepare a written report and review it with your client to give them the opportunity to ask questions.

What does a housing inspector do?

Housing inspectors are professionals who examine residential properties to ensure they meet safety, health, and building code standards. They typically inspect homes, apartments, and other dwellings for structural integrity, proper plumbing and electrical systems, and compliance with local codes. Their work helps protect residents by identifying potential hazards and ensuring that properties are safe and habitable. Housing inspectors may work for government agencies, private inspection companies, or as independent contractors.

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

To thrive as a Housing Inspector, you need a strong understanding of building codes, construction practices, and safety regulations, typically supported by relevant certifications or experience in construction or inspection. Familiarity with inspection software, digital reporting tools, and sometimes state or local licensing requirements is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors accurately assess properties and interact effectively with property owners and contractors. These competencies are crucial to ensuring housing safety, regulatory compliance, and the overall quality of residential properties.

What are some common challenges housing inspectors face during property inspections?

Housing Inspectors often encounter challenges such as dealing with uncooperative tenants or property owners, identifying hidden or hard-to-spot violations, and staying up-to-date with evolving local housing codes and regulations. Balancing thoroughness with efficiency, especially when managing a high volume of inspections, can also be demanding. Effective communication skills and attention to detail are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring properties meet safety and habitability standards.

What is the difference between Housing Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectHousing InspectorBuilding Inspector
Required CredentialsState or local housing codes, certifications in housing inspectionBuilding codes, certifications in building inspection
Work EnvironmentResidential properties, rental units, housing developmentsCommercial and residential buildings, new construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal housing departments, housing authoritiesCity building departments, construction firms
Common Search & ComparisonHousing Inspector vs Building Inspector

Housing Inspectors focus on evaluating residential properties for compliance with housing codes, safety, and habitability standards. Building Inspectors oversee a broader range of structures, including commercial and residential buildings, ensuring compliance with building codes during construction or renovation. While both roles require knowledge of building and safety standards, Housing Inspectors specialize in residential housing quality and safety, often working within local housing agencies.

How long does it take to become a housing inspector?

Becoming a housing inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification which can take several months. Many inspectors gain experience through on-the-job training or apprenticeships, and some states or municipalities may require licensing or certification that can add additional time to the process.

Is it hard to be a housing inspector?

Housing inspectors evaluate properties for compliance with safety and building codes, which requires attention to detail, knowledge of regulations, and often certification or licensing. The job can involve physical inspections in various environments and may require report writing and communication skills; the difficulty depends on experience and the complexity of inspections.
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What cities in Alabama are hiring for Housing Inspector jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Housing Inspector job openings:

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For Housing Inspector jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Housing Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Housing Inspector job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 31% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,111 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Inspector

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Housing Authority of the Birmingham District
Public Administration • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Housing Authority of the Birmingham Districtexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Summary
The primary purpose of this position is to conduct initial, annual, special, and quality control housing inspections according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") and Housing Authority of the Birmingham District ("HABD" or "Agency") regulations. This incumbent also prepares and maintains related records and reports and evaluates the rent reasonableness of proposed rents and rent increases.
All activities must support the Housing Authority of Birmingham District's ("HABD" or "Authority") mission, strategic goals, and objectives.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The position duties and responsibilities listed below describe the general nature and scope of work. Other responsibilities, duties, and skills may be required and assigned as needed.
  • Coordinates and conducts initial, annual, special, and quality control inspections for the Housing Choice Voucher ("HCV") and conventional public housing units Rental Assistance Program to ensure compliance with HUD and HABD Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
  • Enters inspection data into a hand-held computer or other computing systems.
  • Prepares and maintains daily inspection logs and related reports; conducts inspections accordingly.
  • Prepares and maintains unit inspection booklet; notifies the landlord of required repairs and follows up until unit is passed or disqualified.
  • Prepares and sends appropriate correspondences related to inspection scheduling, payment abatements, and results of inspections.
  • Assists with efforts to recruit and educate new landlords and retain current landlords.
  • May be required to conduct inspections on non-HCV or non-public housing units.
  • Evaluate the rent reasonableness of proposed rents and rent increases based on inspection results. Coordinates these activities with New Contract Specialists, Transaction Specialists, and Special Program Specialists.
  • Receives and responds to inquiries and requests for assistance from co-workers, property owners, landlords, tenants, etc., with courtesy and professionalism.
  • Operates and maintains a vehicle and other equipment, such as a personal computer, printer, tablet, telephone, calculator, copier, fax machine, camera, circuit tester, measuring devices, scanner, etc.
  • Interacts and communicates with various groups and individuals such as the immediate supervisor, other agency management and staff, other governmental agencies, residents, landlords, property owners, local code officials, and the general public.
  • Maintains assigned vehicles and prepares maintenance records.
  • Assists with applicant and participant orientation briefings.
  • Maintains knowledge of HUD'S Housing Quality Standards, Fair Housing practices, Housing Administrative Plan, and completes ongoing training as required.
  • Assists with clerical duties, including answering the telephone, copying and filing documents, preparing mass mailings, etc.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Behavioral Competencies
This position requires the incumbent to exhibit the following behavioral skills:
Job Knowledge: Exhibits essential knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the position effectively. Demonstrates knowledge of policies, procedures, goals, objectives, operational entities, requirements, and activities as they apply to the assigned organizational entity of HABD. Uses appropriate judgment & decision-making following the level of responsibility.
Commitment : Sets high-performance standards; pursues aggressive goals and works hard/intelligent to achieve them; strives for results and success; conveys a sense of urgency and brings issues to closure; persists despite obstacles and opposition.
Customer Service : Meets/exceeds the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers; identifies, understands, monitors, and measures the needs of internal and external customers; talks and acts with customers in mind. Recognizes work colleagues as customers.
Effective Communication : Ensures important information is passed to those who need to know; conveys necessary information clearly and effectively orally or in writing. Demonstrates attention to and conveys an understanding of the comments and questions of others; listens effectively.
Initiative: Proactively seeks solutions to resolve unexpected challenges. Actively assists others without formal/informal direction. Possesses the capacity to learn and actively seeks developmental feedback. Applies feedback for continued growth by mastering concepts needed to perform work.
Responsiveness and Accountability : Demonstrates a high level of conscientiousness; holds oneself personally responsible for one's work; does a fair share of work.
Teamwork : Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts team's success above own interests; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
Job Competencies
  • Knowledge of HUD, federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and HABD policies and procedures related to the position.
  • Knowledge of the general operations and procedures of HABD properties and the Housing Choice Voucher Program.
  • Knowledge of landlord-tenant laws.
  • Knowledge of the operation of HABD's computer system and application software.
  • Knowledge of housing inspection procedures, building maintenance, repair techniques, or construction.
  • Skilled in the operation of commonly used office equipment, especially personal computers for word processing and spreadsheet applications.
  • Skilled in effectively scheduling appointments and prioritizing multiple tasks as required.
  • Skilled in customer service and tenant relations.
  • Ability to prepare clear, concise reports and ensure compliant file documentation.
  • Ability to use essential office equipment such as telephone, fax, copier, and computer.
  • Ability to prepare and present ideas in English, both orally and in writing, clearly and concisely.
  • Ability to perform program-required computations with speed and accuracy.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, vendors, consultants, contractors, tenants, HUD, and local, state, and federal officials. Ability to communicate with people from a broad range of socio-economic backgrounds.

Requirements
Education and/or Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED and a minimum of two (2) years' experience in property inspections, housing construction, or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. HQS Inspection certification preferred.
  • Must obtain an HQS Inspection certification within three (3) months of employment.
  • This position requires possession of a valid driver's license and the ability to be insurable under HABD's automobile insurance plan at the standard rate.

Technical Skills
The employee should have strong computer skills (e.g., MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) to perform this job successfully. Must have the ability to learn other computer software programs as required by assigned tasks.
Physical Demands
  • The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • To perform this job successfully, the employee is often required to travel to various subsidized and privately-owned rental properties and other offsite locations. Daily movements include driving, sitting, and standing; operating computers and other office equipment; moving about the office; and attending onsite and offsite meetings. Additionally, the ability to perform frequent physical activities such as stooping, bending, squatting, kneeling, climbing, crouching, reaching above shoulder level, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, and grasping. The employee must be able to communicate via email and verbally via telephone. The employee must occasionally transport and/or lift objects weighing over 25 pounds.

Work Environment
  • The work environment characteristics described here represent those an employee encounter while performing this job's essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Office environment and privately-owned rental properties. Traveling between rental properties may cause the employee to experience a range in temperatures and other weather conditions, loud noise levels, and an environment that is more hazardous than a standard office environment. This position may be required to work with contractors, Authority personnel, and program participants.

The position is open until filled.

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