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Housing Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

National Insurance Inspection Services

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Residential Property Field Inspector

Iowa Falls, IA · On-site

Some experience is preferred and a construction or housing background is helpful. Responsibilities include: * Accept electronic inspections as they are ordered * Complete the inspection in the field ...

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Bureau Veritas

A WORLD LEADER IN TESTING, INSPECTION & CERTIFICATION SERVICES Bureau Veritas offers dynamic, exciting employment opportunities with an attractive salary/benefit package and an opportunity to play a ...

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All JobsHousing Inspector JobsHousing Inspector Jobs in Iowa

Housing Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$31.5K

$53K

$93K

How much do housing inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for housing inspector in Iowa is $52,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,900.00 and $59,600.00 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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Housing Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Housing Inspector job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,965 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Rental Housing & Code Enforcement Officer

City of Mason City

Mason City, IA • On-site

$59K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description The City of Mason City is seeking a Rental Housing & Code Enforcement Officer to join our Development Services team. In this role, you'll split your time between the office and the field conducting inspections, investigating complaints, enforcing housing and zoning regulations, and helping property owners understand and comply with City codes. You'll play an important role in protecting the safety, appearance, and quality of life in our community.

What You'll Do Conduct rental housing inspections of single-family and multi-family dwellings. Inspect residential and commercial properties for housing, building, zoning, and property maintenance code compliance. Investigate complaints involving nuisance properties, junk and debris, inoperable vehicles, nuisance trees, and other ordinance violations.

Meet with property owners, landlords, tenants, contractors, and residents to explain City codes and discuss compliance solutions. Prepare inspection reports, notices of violation, citations, and other enforcement documentation. Maintain inspection records using the City's permitting and code enforcement software.

Review zoning permits and assist with zoning and floodplain ordinance administration. Perform follow-up inspections to verify corrective actions have been completed. Present information before boards and commissions and testify in court when necessary.

Collaborate with other City departments to improve neighborhood safety, appearance, and quality of life. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED. Coursework in structural engineering, construction, environmental health, land use, or a related field is preferred.

Experience in building inspection, construction, code enforcement, property management, facilities maintenance, environmental health, municipal government, building trades, or related regulatory or inspection work is strongly desired. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. Special Requirements Valid driver's license or ability to obtain one prior to appointment.

Must maintain compliance with City's Administrative Policy on Operation of City Vehicles (AP 5.03). This is a Civil Service position and following receipt of an application candidates will be notified of the next steps in the hiring process. Why Join the City of Mason City

When you join the City of Mason City, you'll do work that has a direct impact on our community every day. You'll help improve neighborhoods, protect public safety, and work alongside a team committed to providing exceptional service to our residents. In addition to competitive pay, the City offers an outstanding benefits package that includes: IPERS retirement Health, dental, vision, and life insurance Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays Professional development and training opportunities A collaborative and supportive work environment Applications will be accepted until 4:30pm, August 10th, 2026 Equal Opportunity Employer.

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