Building Inspector As A Career
As this point, I've been a building and plumbing inspector for almost 9 years. I've obtained certifications in multiple areas above and beyond the types of projects I inspect and truly enjoy the challenge of learning new techniques and methods used to build, fix and remodel.
As more and more safety requirements are developed, the need for additional inspectors grows. Generally, there are inspectors for building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical. One of the most common misconceptions is that building inspectors do real estate 'home inspections' - which is not the case at all! Home inspectors are contracted by a home buyer to look over a house prior to purchase. A building inspector is generally hired by a city or county building department to conduct inspections as they relate to a permit that was pulled for a defined type of work or project to ensure project safety and standards are met.
Most inspection positions are employed through a government entity of some sort. The upside of government as an employer is that the benefits are good and there is solid work-life balance. However, specialty inspection agencies are growing rapidly and provide special inspections for items such as concrete testing, soil compaction, fire rated assemblies, welding and more. For myself, I love to be out on the job site, helping people solve problems and seeing projects transform from nothing into a great finished product. As a building inspector, I get to be part of the construction process without putting on the tool bags and breaking my back in the trenches.
Usually there's not an education requirement to become a building inspector. Anyone who studies for and passes the certification tests can become one. Typically, individuals who are already in the construction industry pursue these types of jobs and have a strong knowledge in a particular field that they want to become an inspector in. I have noticed though through continued education classes that more graduates and younger generations are getting involved in building inspection and plan review. This bucks the trend and typical stereotype of who a building inspector is. I started doing building and plumbing inspection when I was in my early 30's and I still hear from contractors on how I "look too young to be an inspector!" I'll probably start hearing less of that soon - for a couple reasons!!
If you enjoy the construction world but feel to restless to sit a desk reading plans and don't want to wear down your body from the physical demands, the building inspector field is a great place to be!
If you're new to the contruction industry or are looking for some refreshers on the world of building code, plus tips and trips to construction processes, look into the guides and tutorials available at www.buildingcodetips.com. Hopefully they can help get you started and point you in the right direction.
As always, reach out with questions!
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