Building Inspector

Building inspectors work to ensure that buildings and structures comply with applicable building codes and regulations. They inspect a wide range of buildings, including commercial, residential, industrial, and government buildings. Inspectors also investigate complaints about building code violations and may issue citations or fines.

What Building Inspectors Do

The main responsibilities of building inspectors include:

• Conducting inspections of buildings and structures to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations
• Investigating complaints about building code violations
• Issuing citations or fines for building code violations
• Providing technical assistance to builders and contractors
• Participating in public hearings and meetings to provide input on building codes and regulations

How to Become a Building Inspector

Most states require building inspectors to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states may require a college degree in architecture, engineering, or construction management. In addition to formal education, many building inspectors also have experience in the construction industry.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for building inspectors is expected to be good over the next few years. The demand for building inspectors is expected to increase as more buildings are constructed and existing buildings are renovated.

Salary

The median annual salary for building inspectors was $61,570 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,440, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $97,130.

Where Building Inspectors Work

Building inspectors work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, private consulting firms, and construction companies. They may work in offices, on construction sites, or in the field.

What Building Inspectors Need to Know

Building inspectors need to have a strong understanding of building codes and regulations. They also need to be able to identify and evaluate building defects. In addition, they need to be able to communicate effectively with builders, contractors, and the public.

Building Inspector Skills

Building inspectors need to have a variety of skills, including:

• Knowledge of building codes and regulations
• Ability to identify and evaluate building defects
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong attention to detail
• Problem-solving skills
• Analytical skills

Building Inspector Tools and Technology

Building inspectors use a variety of tools and technology to perform their jobs, including:

• Building codes and regulations
• Inspection checklists
• Digital cameras
• Measuring tapes
• Levels
• Flashlights
• Computers
• Software

Building Inspector Career Growth

Building inspectors can advance their careers by becoming certified or licensed. They can also move into management positions or become building code officials.

Transferable Building Inspector Skills

The skills that building inspectors develop can be transferred to a variety of other careers, including:

• Construction manager
• Project manager
• Building code official
• Real estate agent
• Insurance adjuster
• Home inspector

A Day in the Life of a Building Inspector

A typical day for a building inspector may include:

• Inspecting a building or structure to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations
• Investigating a complaint about a building code violation
• Issuing a citation or fine for a building code violation
• Providing technical assistance to builders and contractors
• Participating in a public hearing or meeting to provide input on building codes and regulations

Building Inspector Challenges

Building inspectors can face a number of challenges in their work, including:

• Dealing with difficult or uncooperative builders and contractors
• Working in hazardous conditions
• Interpreting complex building codes and regulations
• Enforcing unpopular building codes and regulations

Building Inspector Projects

Building inspectors may be involved in a variety of projects, including:

• Inspecting new buildings and structures
• Investigating building code violations
• Developing and implementing building codes and regulations
• Providing technical assistance to builders and contractors
• Educating the public about building codes and regulations

Personal Growth Opportunities for Building Inspectors

Building inspectors can have a variety of opportunities for personal growth, including:

• Becoming certified or licensed
• Moving into management positions
• Becoming building code officials
• Teaching or writing about building codes and regulations
• Volunteering with community organizations

Building Inspector Personality Traits

Building inspectors who are successful tend to have the following personality traits:

• Strong attention to detail
• Problem-solving skills
• Analytical skills
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Building Inspector Self-Guided Projects

Students can prepare for a career as a building inspector by completing self-guided projects, such as:

• Reading building codes and regulations
• Inspecting buildings and structures
• Attending workshops and seminars on building codes and regulations
• Volunteering with community organizations that focus on building safety

Online Courses for Building Inspectors

Online courses can provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to become building inspectors. Online courses typically cover topics such as building codes and regulations, inspection techniques, and construction principles. Students can learn through lecture videos, projects, assignments, quizzes, exams, discussions, and interactive labs. Online courses can be a helpful learning tool for students who are looking to enter the field of building inspection.

Are Online Courses Enough?

Online courses alone may not be enough to prepare students for a career as a building inspector. However, they can provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. In addition to online courses, students may also consider completing self-guided projects, such as reading building codes and regulations and inspecting buildings and structures. Students may also benefit from attending workshops and seminars on building codes and regulations.