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Residential Building Inspector Jobs in Minnesota

Building Inspector

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$39.33 - $42.53/hr

... Residential Inspector Two years of municipal building inspection experience Supplemental Information SUPERVISION OF OTHERS This position does not supervise others. Anticipated Hiring Range: $39.33 ...

Building Inspector

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$39.33 - $42.53/hr

ICC Residential Inspector * Two years of municipal building inspection experience Supplemental Information SUPERVISION OF OTHERS This position does not supervise others. Anticipated Hiring Range: $39 ...

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Residential Building Inspector information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do residential building inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for residential building inspector in Minnesota is $25.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long does it take to become ICC certified?

Becoming an ICC Residential Building Inspector typically requires completing a training program, gaining relevant work experience, and passing the ICC certification exam, which can take several months to over a year depending on individual preparation and scheduling. Candidates often need to meet specific experience requirements and demonstrate knowledge of building codes and inspection procedures.

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

To thrive as a Residential Building Inspector, you need a solid understanding of building codes, construction practices, and inspection procedures, usually backed by relevant certifications or a background in construction or engineering. Familiarity with inspection software, digital reporting tools, and code reference systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and impartial judgment are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensuring residential structures are safe, code-compliant, and built to high standards.

What does a residential building inspector do?

A residential building inspector examines homes and other residential structures to ensure they comply with local building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. Their main duties include inspecting construction, renovation, and repair work at various stages, identifying code violations, and documenting their findings. They often provide guidance to builders and homeowners on how to correct issues and ensure the property is safe and habitable. Inspectors may specialize in areas such as electrical, plumbing, or structural inspections, depending on their certifications and local requirements.

What is the difference between Residential Building Inspector vs Commercial Building Inspector?

AspectResidential Building InspectorCommercial Building Inspector
CertificationsBuilding codes, residential inspection certificationsBuilding codes, commercial inspection certifications
Work EnvironmentResidential sites, homes, apartmentsCommercial properties, office buildings, retail spaces
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, local government, residential developersCommercial developers, government agencies, property managers

Both roles involve inspecting buildings to ensure compliance with safety and building codes, but Residential Building Inspectors focus on homes and residential structures, while Commercial Building Inspectors evaluate commercial properties. The certifications, work environments, and employers overlap significantly, but each specializes in different property types.

What is required to become a building inspector?

To become a residential building inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience in construction or building trades, and often must obtain state or local certification or licensing. Some inspectors pursue post-secondary education or specialized training in building codes, and passing written exams is usually required to demonstrate knowledge of building standards and safety regulations.

What Is a Residential Building Inspector?

A residential building inspector ensures each home within their region or city meets construction requirements and residential building code rules. Your job duties include visiting a residential property and inspecting it for compliance and overall safety and quality. Your responsibilities may also require you to examine a building after a renovation or repair project. Most cities and counties issue a permit for specific residential improvements. An inspector must look at the structure after the permitted project is done to make sure that everything is still up to code.

What are some common challenges Residential Building Inspectors face during site inspections?

Residential Building Inspectors often encounter challenges such as interpreting evolving building codes, managing tight inspection schedules, and communicating complex findings to homeowners and contractors. Weather conditions and access limitations can also impact the ability to thoroughly inspect certain areas. Successfully overcoming these challenges requires strong attention to detail, up-to-date knowledge of local regulations, and effective interpersonal skills to ensure compliance and safety standards are met.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Among residential building inspectors, those with advanced certifications, specialized skills, or experience in high-demand areas tend to earn higher salaries. Commercial building inspectors or those overseeing large-scale projects often have higher earning potential due to increased responsibilities and complexity. Salary can also vary based on location, employer, and level of expertise.

Are building inspectors in demand?

Building inspectors, including residential building inspectors, are in demand due to ongoing construction, renovation projects, and the need to ensure building safety and code compliance. Employment for these professionals is expected to grow as building standards become more stringent and new construction increases across many regions.
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Infographic showing various Residential Building Inspector job openings in Minnesota 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 $53,218 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Building Inspector

Willdan Group, Inc.

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Willdan rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 439 rated engineering


Job description

Public Agency Resources (PARS), a subsidiary of Willdan Group Inc., is seeking a part-time Building Inspector to perform municipal inspections across the central Minnesota region. You'll support local jurisdictions by verifying compliance with the Minnesota State Building Code, Plumbing and Mechanical Codes, and applicable local ordinances. Work includes residential and commercial inspections, plan review, and documentation within municipal permitting systems.

Why Join Willdan?

Join a respected national firm supporting communities across the Midwest. At Willdan, you'll:

  • Work independently while backed by an experienced code compliance team.
  • Gain exposure to diverse municipal inspection types and electronic permitting systems.
  • Receive ongoing support for professional development and certification renewal.
  • Contribute to safer, code-compliant construction in growing Central Minnesota communities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Conduct residential and commercial building, plumbing, and mechanical inspections for new construction, remodels, and occupancy approvals.
  • Review approved plans, permits, and specifications for code compliance prior to inspections.
  • Document results, issue correction notices when needed, and maintain accurate inspection records.
  • Communicate professionally with contractors, property owners, and municipal staff.
  • Use digital permit and inspection systems; training and tools provided as needed.
  • Apply sound judgment and current knowledge of the Minnesota State Building Code and related standards.

Job Requirements / Qualifications

  • Current Minnesota Certified Building Officialdesignation (required).
  • Minimum five years of experiencein inspection or building trades.
  • MPCA SSTS certification (preferred).
  • ICC certifications and/or Fire Marshal credentials (desired).
  • Strong communication, documentation, and customer service skills.
  • Valid driver's license required.

Schedule

  • Flexible, part-time schedule based on permit volume and municipal demand (primarily weekdays). Ideal for certified inspectors, semi-retired professionals, or tradespeople seeking supplemental work.

EEO Non-Discrimination and ADA Reasonable Accommodation Statement
Willdan is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religious creed, color, age marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, religion, military service or veteran status, disability, medical condition, childbirth and related medical conditions, genetic testing, reproductive status or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws and ordinances. Willdan does not discriminate on the basis of physical or mental disability where the essential functions of the job can be reasonably accommodated. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us.

Public Agency Resources participates in E-Verify.


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