BUILDING INSPECTORS California Occupational Guide Number 306 Interest Area 5-B 1995
THE JOB
BUILDING INSPECTORS evaluate the physical structure of new and old buildings. They assure conformance to the building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications for the safety and utility of the structure. In some cases, they also check for compliance with zoning laws. Most Building Inspectors work for county or municipal building departments. Some also work for private consulting firms specializing in building inspection.
Building Inspectors inspect buildings for structural quality. They visit the work site before the foundation is poured to inspect the soil condition and positioning and depth of the footings. They inspect the foundation after it has been completed. The size and type of structure and the rate of completion determine the number of other visits they must make. Upon completion of the project, they conduct a final comprehensive inspection. In addition, Building Inspectors working for private industry may determine fire insurance rates by assessing the type of construction, building contents, availability of fire protection equipment, and risks posed by adjoining buildings. In large cities and on most large projects, government agencies may designate these workers by their specialty, such as Structural, Plumbing, Electrical, or Elevator Inspector. Each works independently of the other and submits separate reports. A Chief Building Inspector coordinates their efforts. On certain construction, inspection functions may be combined and performed by a single inspector.
Some Building Inspectors use computers to help them monitor the status of construction inspection activities and the issuance of permits. Details about construction projects, building and occupancy permits, and other information can be stored and easily retrieved. Although a trained eye can spot many construction defects, Building Inspectors often use tape measures, survey instruments, metering devices, and test equipment, such as concrete strength measurers. They often keep a daily log of their work, take photographs, file reports, and, if necessary, act on their findings. In the event the Building Inspector discovers that a detail of a project does not comply with the appropriate codes, ordinances, contract specifications, or approved plans, the Building Inspector will notify the construction contractor, superintendent, or supervisor of the deficiency. If this deficiency is not corrected within a reasonable time the Building Inspector can authorize a stop-work order.
Many Building Inspectors also investigate reported incidents of construction or alteration that are being carried on without proper permits. Violators of permit laws are directed to obtain permits and submit to inspection.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Most Building Inspectors spend the greatest part of their time at the building sites and in traveling from one site to another. Since most of their time is outdoors they are subject to all types of weather conditions. The majority drive their own automobiles and are reimbursed on a mileage basis.
Building Inspectors must be physically able to walk and move about construction jobs in any stage of completion. This may include climbing ladders, riding on an open platform hoist, and working many stories above the ground. Inspection sites may be dirty and cluttered with tools, materials, or debris. Building Inspectors may have to climb several flights of stairs, or may have to crawl beneath buildings. They work closely with construction superintendents and engineers and with the skilled crafts workers, whose work they evaluate.
Building Inspectors normally work regular hours Monday through Friday. However, if an accident occurs at a construction site, Building Inspectors must respond immediately and may work irregular hours to complete their reports.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
The following information is from the California Projections of Employment published by the Labor Market Information Division. These figures represent the occupational group Construction and Building Inspectors.
Employment opportunities for Building Inspectors are expected to grow slightly faster than the average for all occupations through 2005. (Projected growth for all occupations in California is expected to average 24 percent through 2005.)
Estimated number of workers in 1990 8,400 Estimated number of workers in 2005 10,800 Projected Growth 1990-2005 29% Estimated openings due to separations by 2005 3,510
(These figures do not include self-employment nor openings due to turnover.)
WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS
Most starting salaries of Building Inspectors range from $1,900 to $2,600 a month. The monthly range for Building Inspectors with 3 to 5 years of experience is from $2,300 to $3,900. Salaries are highest in large, urban areas, and lowest in rural areas.
Building Inspectors receive expense money for the use of their automobiles, for food, lodging, and incidentals when working away from home. They normally work 40 hours a week. Fringe benefits usually include paid vacations, holidays, sick leave, health and dental insurance, and a pension program.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING
To become a Building Inspector, several years as a construction contractor, supervisor, or craft worker are generally required. Most employers also require an applicant to have a high school diploma. High school preparation should include courses in drafting, algebra, geometry, and English. Building Inspectors should have a thorough knowledge of construction materials and practices in either a general area like structural or heavy construction, or in a specialized area such as electrical or plumbing systems, reinforced concrete, or structural steel. Many Building Inspectors have recent experience as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, or pipefitters.
Many employers prefer Building Inspector applicants who have graduated from an apprenticeship program, have studied engineering or architecture for at least two years, or have a degree from a community college with courses in construction technology, blueprint reading, mathematics, and building inspection.
Building Inspector applicants must be in good physical condition in order to walk and climb about construction sites. They also must have a motor vehicle operator's license. In addition, federal, state, and many local governments usually require that applicants pass a civil service examination. Many employers are also requiring that Building Inspector applicants possess a certification from the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO).
Building Inspectors usually receive most of their training on the job. During the first couple of weeks, working with an experienced Building Inspector, they learn about inspection techniques; codes, ordinances, and regulations; contract specifications; and record keeping and reporting duties.
ADVANCEMENT
Promotions in public agencies within the State of California depend upon passing a series of written and/or oral civil service examinations for each higher level of the Building Inspector series.
Building Inspectors usually promote to higher level positions, such as Senior Building Inspector, Principal Building Inspector, and Chief Building Inspector. Each higher level requires additional knowledge and experience, and usually requires supervisory responsibility. Upper level Building Inspectors are also expected to perform the entire range of moderate to difficult inspections of a variety of residences, commercial and industrial buildings. Certification, while not mandatory, also enhances a Building Inspector's chances for a higher paying, more responsible position.
FINDING THE JOB
Persons interested in the job of Building Inspector should apply at the federal, state, or local government offices where civil service examinations are announced, and take the written examination when scheduled. Applicants should also contact private building inspection companies and Building Inspector organizations, such as the International Conference of Building Officials.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION
For Certification information contact:
International Conference of Building Officials 5360 Workman Mill Road Whittier, California 90601 (310) 699-0541
Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc. 900 Montclair Road Birmingham, Alabama 35213 (205) 591-1853
RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES
Civil Engineers No. 39
OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, Fourth Edition) Building Inspector 168-167.030
OES (Occupational Employment Statistics)System Construction and Building Inspectors 219080
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162.
Home 
Job Key 
Wages 
Demand