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Housing Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

VOA Illinois

Housing Coordinator-Rapid Rehousing

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.30 - $26.64/hr

This position focuses on housing navigation, landlord engagement, housing inspections, and coordination with community partners to expand safe and affordable housing opportunities for Veterans. Using ...

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All JobsHousing Inspector JobsHousing Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL

Housing Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34.5K

$58.1K

$102.1K

How much do housing inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for housing inspector in Chicago, IL is $58,136.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,800.00 and $65,500.00 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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The top searched job categories for Housing Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Housing Inspector jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Housing Inspector job openings:

Housing Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Housing Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,136 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Housing Inspector

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago partners with mission-driven people and organizations across Cook and Lake counties to witness a message of mercy and hope to a world in need by improving lives and nourishing spirits; strengthening and empowering people, families, and communities; and committing to being present to our times through the eyes of faith.

Role Overview

The Housing Inspector conducts HUDcompliant housing inspections, manage HAP payments and eligibility, maintain accurate caseload records, coordinate with internal and external stakeholders, resolve issues efficiently, and continuously improve performance through collaboration and ongoing professional development.


Job Responsibilities
  • Responsible for conducting timely and accurate initial, annual, emergency or special housing inspections in compliance with Housing Quality Standards as defined by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Coordinate unit inspections between, client, landlord, care manager and Department of Mental Health.
  • Responsible for collecting and reviewing Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) housing payments for accuracy and for determining program eligibility. Responsible for responding to any inquires and resolving any problems in a timely and efficient manner and consults with supervisor as needed. Carry a case load and maintain up-to-date and accurate client files, departmental files and data bases as required by both internal and external regulatory bodies
  • Adjust in-house or in-field days, as needed, in order to meet departmental demands, at times without notice based on client and department needs. Knows and complies with laws and regulations relevant to the position and services. Work with external stakeholders as needed.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders as needed.
  • Engage in ongoing learning, training, and skill development, seeking and applying feedback to continuously improve performance and contribute to team and organizational success.

PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
  • Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
  • Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time
  • Lift, push, and pull up to 25 lbs

Other Requirements: Comply with program and/or requirements related to:
  • Background check
  • DMV check

Additional Requirements
  • Driver's license
  • Automobile Insurance

Education and Experience Requirements:
Minimum
  • H.S. Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) 1-3 years relevant experience
Preferred
  • Associate's Degree (AA) in a related field of study 3-5 years relevant experience
  • Prior subsidized housing experience.

Certifications and Licensure
  • Preferred Housing Quality Standards Certification

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