What Is a Building Inspector and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

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.

To become a building inspector, you don’t necessarily need a bachelor’s degree, but some organizations want you to have one. If you do not have a degree, you should focus on getting relevant experience. At least two years of experience should help you, provided that your background is in a building trade. This can be carpentry, electrical wiring, plumbing, or a related field. After gaining the right qualifications, you need to become certified by the International Code Council, which allows you to learn building codes. Most states require you to have certification.

A building inspector takes a look at the physical building to ensure everything is working as it should. Defects in a building can happen over time or due to faulty construction. Inspections have to occur periodically to prevent these defects. A plan inspector, meanwhile, focuses on the blueprints during the building process. The plan inspector has to look at the plans and verify that the design itself is up to code. For example, a plan inspector must make sure the future building has emergency doors that open outward and the correct number of exits.

A building inspector focuses on public buildings like stores, offices, and other businesses. Building inspectors check these places at different intervals to verify their safety and other aspects. Home inspectors, meanwhile, work with real estate companies. They conduct an inspection on a private home before completing a sale to ensure that the new homeowner does not have issues after moving into the home. Problems can detract from the value of the property.

Job Summary

The Building Inspector is responsible for performing inspections of commercial and residential buildings to ensure compliance with applicable building codes, standards, and regulations. This position collaborates with contractors, owners, and the public to ensure compliance with policies and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Inspect physical conditions of buildings to ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations
• Investigate complaints related to building codes and regulations
• Prepare and submit reports on inspection findings
• Work with contractors to ensure compliance with safety laws and regulations
• Provide technical assistance to contractors, owners and the public
• Maintain accurate records of inspections and violations
• Develop and maintain relationships with code enforcement agencies

Requirements and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 5+ years of experience in construction, building inspection or related field
• Strong knowledge of building codes and regulations
• Ability to interpret plans, specifications and other documents related to building construction
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation