To become a code inspector, a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with knowledge of building codes and construction techniques. The job involves both office and fieldwork, and physical fitness is necessary. Code inspectors oversee construction and ensure compliance with codes and regulations.
To become a code inspector, you must have earned a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Higher education is not necessarily mandatory, but most employers prefer candidates with some form of formal secondary training, such as an associate’s degree or trade school certificate. Potential employees may receive supervised training, particularly in fieldwork and code inspection procedures. Finally, the candidate must pass written tests and receive a license or certificate to officially become a code inspector. A code inspector must be very familiar with construction and engineering techniques.
Almost every municipality maintains a set of building codes for that community. Building codes ensure that all community structures are built to current safety and accessibility standards. A code inspector must have knowledge of code inspection regulations. He or she must also be constantly informed of new standards that are added, such as national, state, or provincial building regulations for people with disabilities. Becoming a code inspector is taking on these responsibilities as well as maintaining and organizing a litany of written documentation for residential and commercial buildings.
A typical day for a code inspector is split between working in the office and working in the field. He or she might answer calls from inquisitive renovators, review designs for a new housing development, or issue a building permit to rebuild a home. The code inspector can draw up fines or receive payment for building code violations and inspect various residential and commercial structures for code compliance. To become a code inspector, you must juggle your vast and up-to-date knowledge of code regulations with on-site inspections, offering prudent advice when needed and penalizing circuit breakers as needed.
The code inspector must also be physically fit. Many construction sites are littered with tools, materials and construction debris. You must be able to climb stairs, squeeze through crawl spaces, and manipulate gauges and measuring tapes. Much of the training to become a code inspector is acquired on the job, working alongside an experienced code inspector. Some municipalities require on-site testing before obtaining a qualifying license.
This is an important position, and a code inspector usually wields a lot of authority and oversees others. An inspector oversees and evaluates the construction of residential and commercial buildings, ensuring structures meet national or local electrical, plumbing, fire, and building codes. Code inspectors are usually employed by their municipalities. They issue building permits, enforce building regulations, and inspect construction on site for compliance. Code inspectors can also maintain zoning regulations and inspect bridges, dams, roads and wastewater systems.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
