BUILDING INSPECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION

A permit is a promise. When uninspected, unverified load-bearing framing, unpermitted electrical work, and zoning violations accumulate quietly until they become a public safety crisis, the kind that ends in structural failure or legal exposure for an entire municipality. Building Inspectors in local government exist to close that gap, operating under the authority of ICC residential and commercial codes alongside state-specific statutes such as the Illinois Building Code or Minnesota State Building Code. The role spans permit issuance through final occupancy certification. Few municipal positions carry this direct line between daily fieldwork and the physical safety of the people who live and work in the structures being reviewed.

As the Building Inspector, you ensure that new and existing construction within the municipality meets applicable building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire codes, and that every permit, violation notice, and certificate of occupancy is issued accurately and on record. You report to the Building Commissioner or Division Chief while coordinating daily with contractors, architects, engineers, and property owners across residential and commercial project queues.

Career Impact: Earning and maintaining ICC Residential and Commercial Building Inspector certification in a municipal role establishes a recognized credential set that opens pathways to Plans Examiner, Building Official, and Code Enforcement leadership positions.

Business Impact: Your field determinations directly govern whether structures in the jurisdiction are safe for occupancy - a finding you make on every completed inspection, for every resident and business owner who relies on the building.

Growth Opportunity: Municipal inspectors who develop multi-discipline ICC certification portfolios - adding Plans Examiner and Property Maintenance credentials - measurably expand their scope of authority and salary band within the same department or across jurisdictions.

• Inspect new and existing residential and commercial construction for compliance with ICC codes, local ordinances, and approved permit plans.
• Review and interpret architectural drawings, blueprints, and engineering specifications submitted with building permit applications.
• Issue building, demolition, sign, and remodeling permits; collect applicable fees and maintain accurate permit records in the department database.
• Investigate complaints involving construction performed without permits, illegal occupancy, and zoning violations through field observation and public inquiry.
• Prepare written inspection reports, violation notices, and certificates of final inspection for completed construction projects.
• Coordinate field inspections of fire suppression and sprinkler systems for conformance with National Fire Protection Association codes.
• Advise contractors, architects, homeowners, and developers on code interpretations, permit requirements, and corrective action needed to achieve compliance.
• Represent the department at interdepartmental meetings and Board of Appeals proceedings as a technical expert on building code enforcement.

• Bachelor's degree in Building Construction Technology, Architecture, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Two or more years of building construction experience or municipal building code enforcement experience, with demonstrated field inspection competency.
• Working knowledge of ICC residential and commercial building codes, including electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and fire standards.
• Must possess or obtain within 12 months of hire ICC Residential Building Inspector and ICC Commercial Building Inspector certification.
• Ability to read, evaluate, and apply construction drawings and blueprints against current municipal codes in field conditions.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for public-facing code interpretation and formal violation documentation.
• Valid state driver's license with a clean driving record; must be able to travel independently between inspection sites daily.
• Ability to pass a criminal history background check and employment verification as a condition of hire.

• ICC Commercial Building Plans Examiner certification, or ability to obtain within 18 months of hire.
• ICC International Property Maintenance Code Inspector certification applicable to residential and multifamily enforcement.
• Prior experience with municipal permitting database systems and digital inspection reporting workflows.
• Multi-discipline ICC certification across two or more trade areas (electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or fire).

• Inspection completion rate per day, measured against the department's scheduled inspection quota.
• Permit issuance accuracy rate, reflecting the percentage of permits processed without correction or reissuance.
• Violation close-out rate, tracking the proportion of issued notices resolved within the mandated correction window.
• Re-inspection rate per site, indicating how frequently initial inspections fail to achieve compliance on first visit.
• Plan review turnaround time in business days, measuring responsiveness to contractor and developer submittals.
• Typical tools: permit management systems (commonly LOGIS PIMS or similar municipal platforms); field documentation (commonly MS Office, Adobe Acrobat).

• Base Salary Range: $52,000 - $78,000 annually, varying by municipality size and certification level
• Bonus: Merit-based step increases common in municipal pay structures; performance bonuses uncommon
• Equity: Not applicable in public sector roles
• Health Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision through municipal or state employee benefit programs
• PTO: 10 to 20 days annually plus paid holidays per municipal policy
• Common Perks: Defined-benefit pension plan, tuition reimbursement for continuing ICC education, take-home vehicle in some jurisdictions

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Work authorization in the United States is required as a condition of employment. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Candidates selected for hire will be subject to a criminal history background check and driving record verification. Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities are available upon request throughout the application and employment process.

The Building Inspector oversees code compliance verification across energy generation, transmission, and heavy industrial construction projects, interpreting regulations and reviewing complex engineering documents to confirm adherence to approved plans. Working alongside Project Managers, Engineers, and clients through site meetings and daily interaction, this role ensures that accurate inspection records and timely compliance determinations protect project integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform inspections to verify construction is completed in adherence with approved codes, laws ordinances, regulations and standards.
• Verify that construction complies with approved plans and calculations.
• Read, research, and objectively interpret code requirements.
• Maintain clear, concise and comprehensive records related to inspection activities.
• Review complex engineering documents to ensure construction compliance.
• Interface with Project Managers, Engineers, and clients through participation in project meetings and daily site interaction.

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience performing inspections in energy generation, transmission, or heavy industrial projects.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• A collaborative, team-oriented approach.
• Ability to work independently and consistently meet deadlines.

Embedded within a Building Control and Warranty practice, the Building Inspector delivers plan checks, audits, and site inspections across a portfolio of projects governed by the Building Regulations and associated legislation. Working closely with Directors, applicants, designers, external agencies, and members of the public, this role ensures that contractors receive accurate technical guidance and that all projects meet statutory compliance requirements.

Core Functions

• Interpret the functional requirements of the Building Regulations and associated legislation utilising available guidance and professional experience on a project-specific basis.
• Conduct plan checks, audits and site inspections of Building Control and Warranty projects.
• Prepare plan appraisal reports.
• Manage projects via the Approved Inspector Professional database.
• Undertake statutory consultations.
• Determine and instruct contractors regarding remedial measures required, liaising with the designer or applicant over revisions.
• Assess drawings and specifications submitted and liaise with external agencies, subcontractors and site inspector consultants.
• Liaise with Directors, applicants, professionals, and members of the public on technical requirements of the Building Regulations and associated legislation.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree or NVQ Level 6 in a construction-related discipline.
• CIOB, CABE, or RICS membership in progress.
• Existing Building Inspector experience incorporating Building Control or Structural Warranty adherence, informed by Building Regulations.
• Full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle.
• Flexible personal approach.

Reporting to building division leadership, the Building Inspector manages assigned municipal projects and oversees compliance inspections of public and private buildings against local, state, and federal codes, including review of architectural plans covering electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and energy systems. Partnering with architects, engineers, contractors, and professional associations, this role delivers technical interpretations and training that support uniform enforcement and advance municipal construction standards.

Primary Duties

• Manage the execution of assigned municipal projects and oversee inspection of all public and private buildings for compliance with local, state, or federal codes.
• Develop and maintain standards for construction methods and materials to ensure municipal compliance with building criteria.
• Review and examine architectural plans and drawings for compliance with building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and energy codes.
• Coordinate uniform enforcement and inspection methodologies with building personnel and provide training on technical code topics.
• Provide technical advice and interpretations of codes, laws, and regulations to architects, engineers, contractors, homeowners, and others.
• Attend professional association meetings and stay abreast of new trends and innovations in building inspection and plan checking.
• Assist in the preparation of proposals, client interviews, and marketing plans as needed.

Skills & Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in all phases of modern construction practices and building codes, including commercial and residential field inspections.
• ICC Residential Building Inspector, ICC Commercial Building Inspector, and ICC Certified Plans Examiner certifications required.
• ICC International Property Maintenance Code Inspector Certification, or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• Ability to detect structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing code violations and establish effective working relationships with contractors, architects, engineers, and the public.
• Valid Illinois driver's licence with a good driving record.

Sitting at the intersection of public safety and regulatory enforcement, the Local Building Inspector performs required inspections under 780 CMR, issues permits, and investigates building code and zoning violation complaints across new and existing structures. Operating across contractor, architect, and public-facing engagements under the supervision of the Building Commissioner, this role maintains accurate electronic records and ensures that corrective actions are executed in full compliance with Massachusetts statutes and bylaws.

Duties

• Perform required and periodic inspections as required by 780 CMR, the Massachusetts Building Code, complete inspection reports, and issue certificates of inspection.
• Enforce the provisions of the State Building Code and any other applicable statutes, rules, regulations, ordinances, and bylaws under the supervision of the Building Commissioner.
• Assist the Building Commissioner in the performance of their duties.
• Inspect new and existing buildings and structures and examine or approve plans and specifications for new builds, repairs, and alterations.
• Issue permits and maintain electronic records of permits granted and inspections completed.
• Write and maintain inspection reports and violation notices.
• Investigate building code and zoning violation complaints and take necessary actions to enforce corrections.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent, or associate degree in a building construction or design-related field.
• Certification by the Board of Building Regulations and Standards in accordance with 780 CMR 110.R7, with continuing education hours required to maintain Building Official certification.
• Minimum five years of experience in supervision of building construction or design, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• General knowledge of building materials, construction requirements, fire prevention, ventilation, energy requirements, and the Massachusetts Building Code.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for professional public interaction.
• Massachusetts Class D driver's licence.

A key member of the inspection management team, the Building Inspector performs evaluations of residential buildings across structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems to ensure compliance with codes, regulations, and approved plans. Collaborating across construction industry representatives, permit applicants, and the general public, this role prepares written reports, resolves unique field situations independently, and supports business development activities that strengthen the organization's inspection services.

Accountabilities

• Perform inspections and evaluations of residential buildings and structures, including structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems, for compliance with codes, regulations, and approved plans.
• Assist and advise the general public on residential construction and code requirements.
• Prepare written reports, maintain records, and issue notices to correct code violations.
• Read, research, explain, and interpret code requirements and applicable laws, communicating tactfully with the general public in writing and verbally.
• Independently recognize, evaluate, and resolve unique problems or situations using sound judgment.
• Assist the inspection management team with business development activities and support construction industry representatives and the public with permit needs.

Requirements

• Associate degree in engineering, architecture, or building inspection, or high school diploma.
• 2 or more years of journey-level experience in inspection services, construction trades, or contracting.
• ICC or other state-recognized certifications required, with multi-discipline certifications preferred.
• Ability to read construction drawings and blueprints and evaluate them against current municipal codes for field constructability.
• Proficiency in MS Office, Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, digital cameras, and photo media programs.
• Valid state driver's licence required.

Accurate, timely code enforcement depends on the Michigan Certified Building Inspector, who inspects fire- and water-damaged buildings, detects non-compliant construction, and delivers evidence in ordinance violation proceedings across residential and commercial properties. Based within a municipal enforcement environment and accountable to officials, citizens, and business owners, this role shapes public safety outcomes by combining field inspections, database reporting, and cross-functional support, including animal control operations and Brownfield site assessment.

Operational Focus

• Inspect buildings damaged by fire or water to determine restoration or demolition requirements.
• Detect and locate defective and non-compliant construction and property maintenance installations.
• Communicate building codes and regulations to the public orally and in writing.
• Read, understand, and apply blueprints, specifications, plans, and codes to existing and new construction to ensure compliance.
• Prepare and deliver evidence before a hearing officer or judge on ordinance violation cases.
• Inspect demolition and Brownfield sites and assist in animal control operations including capture, impoundment, wildlife relocation, and rodent baiting.
• Obtain and record field data in an organized fashion and generate and compile field reports and database entries.
• Handle complaints from citizens, officials, and business owners and perform all work in accordance with the Health and Safety Plan.

Position Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required, with trade school training a plus.
• Michigan Certified Building Inspector credential required.
• ICC Property Maintenance and Housing Inspection, ICC B-1 Residential Building Inspector, and ICC B-2 Commercial Building Inspector certifications required, with ICC Plan Review certifications preferred.
• Three to five years of experience in carpentry, plumbing, or electrical installation.
• Knowledge of municipal codes, ordinances, approved construction methods, materials, and hazardous materials, including asbestos abatement.
• Familiarity with building permit processes for new and replacement installations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with proactive time management.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and traverse construction sites safely.
• Valid driver's licence with a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to pass a background investigation and drug testing.

As the Building Inspector, this role inspects homes under construction or conversion, working directly with Developers and Builders to verify compliance with the Technical Manual and Building Regulations while self-managing workload to maximize time on site. The warranty and inspection team relies on this work to maintain consistent technical standards, ensure accurate database records, and deliver responsive professional service to developers, clients, and members of the public.

Role Responsibilities

• Inspect homes under construction or conversion, working closely with Developers and Builders to ensure works comply with the Technical Manual and Building Regulations.
• Self-manage workload through planning to provide a responsive and professional service while maximising time on site.
• Record inspection details in the database and communicate findings to customers and colleagues.
• Liaise with Surveyors and Management on technical matters to ensure standards are maintained and procedures are followed.
• Liaise with Developers, Clients, and Builders to offer technical advice and guidance.
• Advise the Line Manager on technical areas to keep team members informed when engaging with potential clients.

Experience & Qualifications

• HNC, HND, or NVQ Level 4 in a construction-related discipline as a minimum.
• Membership of RICS, CIOB, CABE, or ICWCI preferred but not essential.
• Relevant experience in building construction, plan check, site inspection, warranty, quality, or defect resolution, including experience with defect resolution and varying construction methods.
• Knowledge of the Building Regulations, associated legislation, construction standards, and basic insurance principles.
• Proficiency in MS Outlook, MS Word, and MS Excel.
• Strong customer service, relationship management, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with construction professionals and members of the public.
• Ability to meet deadlines, manage your own workload, use initiative, and motivate yourself and others.

Building Inspector conducts on-site inspections of new construction and renovation projects at lead-contaminated residential and multi-family properties, encompassing energy audits, quality control, and contractor compliance with lead removal safety codes and wage requirements. The work directly supports safe residential renovation outcomes by maintaining accurate project records, resolving warranty complaints, and verifying that building components meet applicable construction, grading, zoning, and safety codes.

What You'll Do

• Conduct energy audits and quality control inspections of residential and multifamily properties to improve energy efficiency, including data collection, energy assessment reports, and heating system upgrade specifications.
• Inspect multi-family and residential properties being renovated due to lead contamination to ensure contractor conformance with lead removal safety codes.
• Review, interpret, and revise drawings and specifications, and review materials for compliance with requirements and codes.
• Investigate and resolve warranty complaints between homeowners, renters, and contractors, and review and authorize contractor payment requests.
• Inspect building components including footings, floor framing, chimneys, and stairways for compliance with building, grading, zoning, and safety codes.
• Review and approve certified contractual payrolls and verify contractor compliance with minimum wage requirements and job classification standards.
• Maintain project records and write reports, including correspondence, drawings, daily progress reports, and time and materials records.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with five years of experience in a building trade, construction inspection, or lead abatement inspection.
• HEP Energy Auditor Certification, HEP Quality Control Inspector Certification, OSHA 10-hour Construction Safety Certification, and EPA Lead Repair, Renovation, and Painting Certification (LRRP) required.
• Knowledge of building construction materials, methods, safety practices, OSHA regulations, and construction codes and standards.
• Ability to read, interpret, and revise drawings and specifications, conduct field inspections, maintain records, and write reports.
• Strong mathematical ability.
• Capability to communicate and establish effective working relationships with others.
• Valid Class C driver's licence with no points, and ability to obtain a Baltimore City Driver's Permit.

The Building Inspector I owns permit issuance, plan review, and on-site compliance inspections across residential and commercial construction, ensuring conformance with safety standards, zoning ordinances, and national and municipal codes. Working alongside City inspectors, developers, architects, Board of Appeals members, and the public, this role enforces corrective action, coordinates fire suppression system inspections, and provides permit guidance that supports lawful development across the municipality.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Inspect new and existing construction in residences, commercial businesses, and other buildings for conformance with safety standards, laws, and codes, and order corrective action as required.
• Issue permits and collect fees for building construction, demolition, signs, fences, remodeling, and certificates of occupancy, and maintain records of permits issued and fees collected.
• Investigate complaints regarding unpermitted construction, illegal occupancy, and zoning violations through observation and public inquiry.
• Meet with developers and builders on preliminary projects to provide guidance through the submittal process.
• Review building plans for compliance with state, national, and municipal codes, zoning ordinances, and pertinent laws, and advise relevant parties on compliance needs.
• Inspect fire suppression and sprinkler systems for conformance with National Fire Protection Association codes, and conduct emergency inspections for Police and Fire Departments.
• Coordinate inspections with other City inspectors, represent the department at meetings and Board of Appeals proceedings, and appear in court on compliance matters as required.
• Train interns, answer public inquiries on zoning and permit requirements, and assist owners in preparing appeal or variance applications.

Technical Qualifications

• Associate degree in Building Construction Technology or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• ICC Residential Building Inspector and Commercial Building Inspector certification required within 12 months of hire, and Commercial Building Plans Examiner certification required within 18 months of hire.
• Two years of building construction experience or building code enforcement experience.
• Knowledge of commercial and residential construction techniques, including accessibility, building, fire, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing codes.
• Ability to deal effectively with the public, contractors, architects, engineers, and government agencies on code enforcement matters.
• Ability to learn new software programs as required.
• Valid State of Illinois Class D driver's licence required within 60 days of employment.

Embedded within a municipal building division, the Building Inspector produces detailed inspection reports and permit recommendations covering building, demolition, on-site septic, plumbing, and property standards functions in accordance with the Ontario Building Code Act and referenced standards. Working closely with the Chief Building Official, architects, engineers, property owners, contractors, and government bodies, this role advances lawful development across the municipality by conducting field inspections, taking corrective action on infractions, and serving as a key witness in court proceedings.

Scope of Work

• Receive, review, and recommend for approval building, demolition, on-site septic, sign, and plumbing permits, ensuring compliance with applicable law.
• Conduct field inspections to ensure all permits and new structures comply with the Ontario Building Code and Ontario Building Code Act.
• Prepare detailed inspection reports and correspondence for each project and maintain records for Building, Plumbing, On-site Septic, Cross Connection, Backflow Prevention, and Property Standards functions.
• Carry out inspections and take corrective action for infractions against the Ontario Building Code Act, Property Standards By-law, Sign By-law, and Cross Connection and Back Flow Prevention By-law.
• Maintain continuous visual checks for unauthorized work and illegal By-law infractions and report findings accordingly.
• Assist the Chief Building Official with reports to Federal, Provincial, and Municipal Governments on permit and By-law activity, and with reports to Planning departments on site suitability for development.
• Assist with preparation of evidence for court cases and act as a key witness in cases involving interpretation of the Ontario Building Code Act and related By-laws.
• Consult with architects, engineers, property owners, and contractors regarding proposed municipal development and assist in developing policies, procedures, and standards for the inspection function.

Professional Experience

• Three-year college diploma in Architecture, Engineering Technology, Building Sciences, or a related field.
• Certified Building Code Official designation with certification and registration in applicable Ontario Provincial qualification categories.
• Minimum five years of related experience, with seven years required for Senior Building Inspector roles.
• Thorough knowledge of the Ontario Building Code Act, Ontario Building Code, referenced standards, Provincial Offences Act, and related legislation.
• Training in Ontario Municipal Law Enforcement and Ontario Property Standards.
• Thorough knowledge of construction materials and techniques with the ability to conduct investigative inquiries in sensitive situations.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with strong personal organizational capabilities.
• Valid Ontario driver's licence with a clean driver's abstract.

Building Inspector refines plan review and field inspection practices across new construction, alterations, demolitions, and maintenance projects in Eden Prairie, ensuring that each permitted structure meets Minnesota and local building and fire code standards. Serving as a direct resource for contractors, architects, job superintendents, and homeowners, this role supports the Building Division's mandate to safeguard life, health, property, and public welfare through accurate code interpretations and technically current inspection methods.

Work Activities

• Support the Building Division by ensuring construction complies with code standards to safeguard life, health, property, and public welfare in the City of Eden Prairie.
• Perform field inspections to ensure compliance with the code and construction standards.
• Review and interpret blueprints and specifications submitted for building permits covering new construction, alterations, additions, demolitions, repairs, and maintenance.
• Field calls and meet with contractors, architects, job superintendents, and homeowners to discuss code issues and render accurate interpretations.
• Work with contractors and owners to achieve code-compliant projects and maintain technical proficiency in construction and applicable codes.
• Research new and alternative materials and construction practices for potential approval and assist in developing department information handouts and inspection check sheets for field use.

Background & Experience

• Associate degree or two-year technical certificate required, with Building Inspection Technology preferred, and State Building Official License required within two years of hire.
• Minimum 5 years of work experience in a recognized trade such as carpentry, architecture, or drafting, with experience in both residential and commercial construction preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) required, with experience in LOGIS Permit Information Management System (PIMS) preferred.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, and technical learning skills with the ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Ability to climb ladders and scaffolding, walk on uneven surfaces, and lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds in field conditions.
• Valid driver's licence with an excellent driving record required.
• Must pass a criminal history check, professional reference checks, and education and work history verification.