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Building inspectors evaluate land for construction projects, mapping and assessing characteristics such as size, elevation, boundaries, and terrain curves. They prepare plans, use electronic devices and computer software, and work with builders to ensure safe and effective construction. A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a similar field is typically required, along with previous experience in land survey, design, or construction.
Typically, a building inspector inspects and measures plots of land under consideration for various building projects. The specifics of that person’s work depend in many ways on the type of project in question; researching for a large project like an airport requires a different skill set than, say, planning a single-family home. In almost all cases, however, all jobs rely on the same basic knowledge and concepts. A person trained in this field will gather information about land characteristics including size, elevations, boundaries and terrain curves. He or she also usually maps the land and writes reports evaluating the ways in which certain building plans could make use of the space and identifying any problems with topography, soil density or other problems specific to the land. This information is used by landowners, engineers and other land developers to determine the best ways to use the land and plan safe and effective buildings.
Understanding the research field in general
Survey work is an important part of planning for almost any type of construction project. Most architects and building engineers are trained in building mechanics and composing sound structures, but the success of these projects often depends as much on the integrity of the buildings as it does on the safety of the land they are built on. This is where surveyors come in. Surveyors in the building world are specially trained in how to evaluate land, not just for its characteristics, but also for its suitability when it comes to serving as the site for various buildings. Things like elevation changes, likelihood of flooding, and topographical challenges all play a role.
Different work environments
A person in this position can work in many different environments. Your scope of survey projects can range from residential developments to skyscrapers, malls, highways and airports. People with this knowledge often have many different projects at their disposal and often work in very varied environments, depending on the circumstances. Some work for private companies, such as a construction, architecture or engineering company, or with local and regional government agencies.
Preparation Plat
One of the most common things professionals in this field do is prepare plans, which are maps that clearly define property boundaries and describe the geographic features of the land. The inspector normally presents the plans together with the land development plan consultant. These planning and analysis sessions regularly include communications with the construction teams, the survey team and the clients.
Border line assessments
Determining the boundaries and characteristics of a piece of land is not always easy. Sometimes old documents and drawings must be used to determine where the legal boundaries are. Many surveyors use electronic devices and computer software to aid in terrain analysis. Global Positioning Systems (GPS) can help a surveyor map exact positions and coordinates, while specialized software can help analyze current field data and compare it to previous maps and surveys.
After the plans and blueprints are completed, the inspector usually continues to work with the builder for a while. He or she can confirm findings at preferred elevations and points for construction to begin before ground breaking. If the builder has questions about elevations or boundaries, it is generally expected that the building surveyor will provide answers.
Necessary and useful tools
To accurately assess land parcels, the building inspector and his team use a variety of tools and instruments, some of which are unique to the profession. Specialized survey instruments include tools that measure angles and altitude called theodolites and traffic altimeters. Surveyed property is usually marked with simple stakes and rods to designate boundaries and indicate recommended points to begin construction.
Introduction to this work
Typically, a building inspector is required to have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a similar field. Previous land survey, design or construction experience is highly valued. Some regions also require licenses or an apprenticeship period during which the novice inspector works for a more experienced industry professional.
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