A building and construction inspector is someone employed by the town council to inspect houses to ensure that they are safe to occupy. An inspector does this by enforcing the guidelines for building code, which has detailed specifications and requirements for erecting buildings in a certain area. Buildings to be inspected include; remodelled houses, new homes or houses to let.
Roles of a building inspector
There is a code designed to provide a level of safety and quality. What an inspector does is, enforce these guidelines and have the final say before the property is sold or occupied. A building that does not pass the building code will be marked as unfit to occupy and s/he may order for demolition at owner’s cost.
If you are a homeowner and planning to remodel, you will need an inspector before and after the improvements have been affected. You also need to seek a permit before remodelling your house. Normally, building inspectors seem to be picky and strict in the line of duty because if something went wrong, they will be held liable. It will be easier if you cooperate with the inspector to effect the changes recommended for faster approval.
For any violation during construction, the building inspector is expected to flag off and ask the owner to redo or demolish unauthorised additions to a home. You will be given a certain period to effect the changes recommended by the building inspector or face legal implications.
Qualifications and functions of a building inspector
A building inspector can be certified in various fields like an electrical inspector, plumbing inspector or a mechanical inspector. There are building inspections fields as listed below:
- Building Inspector: They are tasked with ensuring the structural integrity of a building and determine whether right materials were used to construct the building and comply with the regulations from the local authorities.
- Home Inspectors: These are professionals tasked with ensuring dwelling houses meet the safety measures. They also inspect the roofs, interior and exterior of a home and recommend improvements in a report. Home inspectors specifically are helpful for those wishing to buy a property because detailed defects highlighted will give a buyer the upper hand during negotiation.
- Electrical Inspectors: The roles of an electrical inspector are to determine codes and standards to be followed while installing electrical systems for your home. They are tasked with inspecting every electric system, power codes and bulbs to ensure they are functional and safe.
- Mechanical Inspector: Ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration are the main tasks a mechanical inspector can do. HVAC systems and other mechanical equipment in our homes fall under their jury.
- Plumbing Inspectors: These professionals deal with water and sewerage systems for homes. They will ensure water is safe for consumption and the water lines are functional. Also, ensure systems are functional and up to date with industrial piping standards.
- Specification Inspectors: These are professionals who ensure all the building codes and standards are followed, and structures are erected following approved plans.
- Fire Inspectors: These are construction professionals tasked with ensuring all fire safety measures are put in place to help in firefighting in case of fire outbreaks.
- Public works inspectors: They will ensure sewer systems, street lights and more are functional according to local state requirements.
- Coating Inspectors: They serve homeowners by ensuring coating standards are met.
