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Career and Job Highlights Most construction and building inspectors are employed by governmental agencies like municipal or county building departments. There is a recent trend of involving inspectors in buying homes, which creates higher demand. A college education, experience as construction supervisors and craftworkers, or training as an architect or engineer will be beneficial to those entering the profession. Inspectors can gain formal certification as plan examiners or construction inspectors. Construction, Building and Electrical Inspector Career Overview Construction and building inspectors are involved in assessing construction or renovation of structures like buildings, roads, water systems, etc, to make sure that they comply with local building codes and regulations concerning zoning, and adhere to the stipulations of the contract. Building codes and guidelines are the way the government ensures the safety of the public by regulating construction. During the preliminary stages of building, the inspectors visit the site and make assessments. They inspect the area before the foundation is even built, check the depth of the footings, and make sure the land on which the structure is built is stable. They return to look at the foundation after it has been poured, continue to make periodic inspections for the duration of the construction, and a final inspection after it is finished. Inspections can vary widely. Different locations have different guidelines. For example, areas where earthquakes or tornados are common might have specific safety guidelines. Also, inspectors look at both structural soundness and fire safety. Based on the size and kind of structure, the surrounding buildings, and what will be kept in the building, they make sure that buildings have proper sprinkler systems, smoke control, emergency exits, and alarm systems. Previously, most cities and counties made codes that were variations on regional form codes that were developed by the Building Officials and Code Administration (BOCA), the Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI), or the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO). This made it difficult for inspectors to transfer to different areas as they were unfamiliar with the codes in the new area, which differed greatly from their old codes. To solve this problem the three organizations joined together in 1994 and created the International Code Council (ICC). By 2000 they'd created a set of building codes that were applicable to the entire country. The three different organizations concentrated all of their functions into the ICC by 2003. All new codes and programs that support inspectors are now administered by the ICC, which has simplified life for inspectors in the whole country. There are many different professions within the industry.
Most inspections involve visual surveys of the area and construction. However, inspectors also use some tools, like tape measures, meters, survey equipment, and special equipment designed to test the strength and quality of materials like concrete. They keep detailed records of their findings, take pictures, file their reports with their agency, and, if there's a problem, they take action to rectify it. For instance, if an inspector finds something that doesn't comply with building codes or the contract, s/he might contact the construction contractor or supervisor. They specify a period of time for the builders to fix the problem, and if it isn't fixed governmental inspectors are authorized to issue a "stop work" order. Inspectors also look into building activities or renovations that are being conducted without the correct permits. Inspectors who work for municipal offices are responsible for enforcement of regulations concerning correct design, construction, and how the buildings are utilized. They inform law-breakers about what permits whey need and how to obtain them. Inspectors are more likely to work individually than as part of a team. However for especially large or multipart projects inspectors who specialize in different areas might work together. Inspectors spend most of their time conduction inspections on-site, but they also work in an office where they read blueprints, file reports, correspond with clients or agencies, and make schedules. Inspectors spend most of their time on construction sites which may be messy, full of equipment and materials, and unstable. They have to follow safety guidelines like other construction workers, such as wearing goggles or hardhats. Also, they may have to climb ladders on unfinished buildings or examine very small spaces. Most inspectors work a regular forty-hour work week with normal daytime hours. However, they may have to work overtime during a busy season or when involved with a big project that is nearing deadline. Also, they have to be able to respond instantaneously and at any time if an accident takes place. Inspectors who aren't employed by a governmental agency may have a more irregular work schedule, and might work on weekends or nights. Construction, Building and Electrical Inspector Career Training and Job Qualifications The skills required to be a good inspector vary based on type of employer. However, there are a few skills that are common to all inspectors. They should be conversant with material and practices used in construction. Inspectors might have general knowledge, like knowing how to judge structural quality, or specific knowledge, like ventilation systems or reinforced concrete. Also, they have to have experience in construction, such as being a construction manager or contractor. Many inspectors got their start working as craftsmen like carpenters, electricians, etc. Inspectors, unlike some other construction professions, are recommended to have some formal training, as their job involves so much complex technical and practical knowledge. To get a job, most applicants need a high school diploma at least, regardless of how much experience the applicant has. Most hirers will also prefer an applicant with post-secondary education, like a degree from a community college, university, or vocational school. They look for people who have training in architecture, engineering, building inspection, drafting, or construction technology. Classes in language arts or mathematics are also beneficial. Associate's degrees in building inspection are offered by many community colleges. Inspectors have to be physically fit enough to be able to thoroughly inspect construction sites. They also need to be a licensed driver and often have to pass a civil service exam to work for the government. Inspectors usually gain most of their skills through practical on the job training. They are paired with an inspector with lots of experience, and then learn how to conduct an inspection, about different does and regulations, how to read a contract, and how to keep proper records. They often start out by inspecting simple structures like residences, and are given more responsibility as they gain experience. In order to advance to a position in management or supervising, most candidate need a degree in architecture or engineering. It is important for inspectors to remain au courant of new developments in construction methods, material, building codes, and regulations. Thus, most employers provide programs in continuing education. Inspectors who are self-employed or who work for small organizations can gain their continuing education through programs sponsored by their state or by taking courses offered by community colleges or professional organizations. The majority of local and state governments require that inspectors receive some kind of formal licensure. Even if their area doesn't require it, professional certification is still helpful inspectors as it demonstrates a level of competence. Certification usually involves experience, education, and a passing grade on examinations about different building codes, construction methods, and construction materials. Many professional organizations, the ICC among them, sponsor voluntary certification programs. Usually there are no educational requirements for these types of certification, though they may require an examination. There are many different certifications for many different specialties. One of the most common is the designation of Certified Building Official (CBO). Job and Employment Opportunities Employment is expected to grow at the average rate for building inspectors in coming years. The creation of new jobs can be attributed to the increasing awareness of safety issues by the general public, and the demand for high quality construction. Also, some job openings will be the result of experienced workers leaving the industry or retiring. Inspectors can maximize their employability by gaining lots of experience in the construction industry as craftworkers or construction managers. Having a college education, formal training as an engineer or architect, and being certified will also enhance an inspector's opportunities. Inspectors also need to be competent in reading blueprints, contracts, and plans. Inspection, like all areas of construction, is sensitive to changes in the economy. However, it is less susceptible than most because they aren't only involved in new construction, but in repair and renovation as well. The increasing population is leading to the building and renovation of many homes, and so there will be very high demand for home inspectors. Also, inspectors who specialize in architecture and engineering firms will have good opportunities as many governmental agencies hire outside inspectors on a contract basis. Historical Earnings Information The majority of inspectors earned between $15.80/h and $25.00/h in 2002. The median annual income was $41,600. The lowest tenth of the pay scale earned under $12.50/h and the highest tenth earned over $30.00/h 
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