Construction and building inspectors examine the construction, alteration, or
repair of buildings and other structures to ensure compliance with building
codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications. Building
codes and standards are the main way by which building construction is regulated
in the United States for the health and safety of the general public. Inspectors
make an initial inspection during the first phase of construction, and follow-up
inspections throughout the construction project to check compliance with
regulations. However, no inspection is exactly the same. In areas where certain
types of severe weather or natural disasters, such as earthquakes or hurricanes,
are more common, inspectors monitor compliance with additional safety
regulations designed to protect structures and occupants during these events.
There are many different types of inspectors. Building inspectors inspect the
structural quality and general safety of buildings and homes. Some specialize in
areas like structural steel or reinforced concrete structures. Before
construction begins, plan examiners determine whether the plans for the building
comply with building code regulations. Inspectors visit the worksite before the
foundation is poured to inspect the soil condition as well as the positioning
and depth of the footings. Later, they return to the site to inspect the
foundation after it is completed. The size and type of structure, as well as the
rate of completion, determine the number of visits they must make. Upon
completion of the project, they make a final inspection.
The owner of a building under construction employs specification inspectors to
ensure that work is done according to design specifications. They represent the
owner’s interests, not that of the general public.
Although inspections are mostly visual, inspectors may use tape measures, survey
instruments, metering devices, and test equipment such as concrete strength
measurers. They keep a record of their work, take photographs, file reports,
and, if necessary, act on their findings. For example, construction inspectors
notify the construction contractor, superintendent, or supervisor when they find
a code or ordinance violation or something that does not comply with the
contract specifications or approved plans. If the problem is not corrected
within a reasonable or specific period, government inspectors have authority to
issue a “stop-work” order.
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