Construction and Building Inspectors
Construction and building inspectors inspect structures using engineering skills to determine structural soundness and compliance with specifications, building codes, and other regulations. These inspections may be general in nature or may be limited to a specific area, such as electrical systems or plumbing.
Construction and building inspectors' job is to inspect structures and buildings to make sure all construction and safety regulations are met and the structures are safe to use. They recommend maintenance and upgrades to structures and approve building plans. Construction inspectors may look at specific systems like plumbing, electrical, water or wiring.
Other responsibilities of construction inspectors include maintaining inspection logs, measuring dimensions, using surveying equipment, conferring with authorities and owners, monitoring cleanliness and construction activities, and training or supervising other inspectors.
How to become a safety inspector in construction? A certification or associate's degree is required, although most employers seek candidates with a bachelor's in engineering, architecture or construction-related course. Knowledge of building inspection technology and work or intern experience in construction is valuable. One must understand blueprints and construction designs.
Construction inspectors mostly work for the government or local authorities agencies. Some also work for private contractors, construction firms or as consultants to builders and homeowners. The building inspector's salary is commensurate with the nature of the job and experience.
To become a successful construction inspector, one must have physical stamina, be detail-oriented, have up to date mechanical knowledge, and possess communication and problem-solving skills.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- M.Tech Civil Engineering
- B.Tech Civil Engineering
Tasks
- Inspect bridges, dams, highways, buildings, wiring, plumbing, electrical circuits, sewers, heating systems, or foundations during and after construction for structural quality, general safety, or conformance to specifications and codes.
- Maintain daily logs and supplement inspection records with photographs.
- Review and interpret plans, blueprints, site layouts, specifications, or construction methods to ensure compliance to legal requirements and safety regulations.
- Inspect and monitor construction sites to ensure adherence to safety standards, building codes, or specifications.
- Measure dimensions and verify level, alignment, or elevation of structures or fixtures to ensure compliance to building plans and codes.
- Issue permits for construction, relocation, demolition, or occupancy.
- Monitor installation of plumbing, wiring, equipment, or appliances to ensure that installation is performed properly and is in compliance with applicable regulations.
- Train, direct, or supervise other construction inspectors.
- Conduct environmental hazard inspections to identify or quantify problems, such as asbestos, poor air quality, water contamination, or other environmental hazards.
- Evaluate project details to ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
Progression Routes
READY FOR MORE?
Subscribe to our Premium package and you'll unlock a wealth of extra information about your favourite careers and gain access our library of immersive 360° VR careers experience.
As a Premium user you'll find out more about the day-to-day demands of any career, what you could earn and, importantly, receive expert advice on study routes, preparation expenses, and where & what to study to fulfil your potential.