Building Inspector

There are many types of inspectors. The building inspector will usually inspect the structural quality and general safety of buildings. Some inspectors specialize in areas like structural steel or reinforced concrete buildings and structures. Before construction begins plan analysts determine whether or not the plans for a building or other structure will comply with building code regulations and whether they will be acceptable to the engineering and environmental demands of the building site. In many cases, a building inspector will even visit the worksite before the foundation is poured. Later, the inspector return to the site to inspect the foundation after it has been completed. The type of building and its size, as well as how fast it will take to complete will determine the number of other site visits they must make. Upon completion of the project, the building inspector will do a final, comprehensive inspection.

In addition to structural characteristics, a primary concern of the building inspector is to ensure safety in the event of a fire. They inspect the building’s fire sprinklers, alarms, smoke control systems, and fire exits. The building inspector has to make sure that all exits are clearly marked, alarm systems operate properly, and that there is adequate assistance in the event of a fire such as a sprinkler system, easily accessible fire extinguishers, etc.  The building inspector will then assess the type of construction, contents of the building, adequacy of fire protection equipment, and risks posed by adjoining buildings.  It is their job to make sure the building is completely safe before people are allowed to occupy it, and they are an integral and important part of the construction process.  Most of the time, a building inspector is hired by the local government, but some are hired on by private companies as well as local municipalities.