What is the difference between a building official and a building inspector?

Building officials have a role that is more oversight and supervisory, whereas building inspectors are more responsible for the safety and code compliance of the structure and the building they evaluate. Building inspectors may also be contracted or freelance, and you may work on multiple sites and projects during the same period. Building officials typically work in one building or set of buildings. The qualifications to become a building official are more intensive than those to become a building inspector. Inspectors are required only to have some experience in the field and certification, whereas officials are often required to have a degree and additional certifications.