Construction and Building Inspectors : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Summary

Construction inspectors ensure that building codes are met through all phases of construction.

Quick Facts: Construction and Building Inspectors
2010 Median Pay	$52,360 per year $25.18 per hour
Entry-Level Education	High school diploma or equivalent
Work Experience in a Related Occupation	More than 5 years
On-the-job Training	Moderate-term on-the-job training
Number of Jobs, 2010	102,400
Job Outlook, 2010-20	18% (About as fast as average)
Employment Change, 2010-20	18,400

What Construction and Building Inspectors Do

Construction and building inspectors ensure that new construction, changes, or repairs comply with local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.

Work Environment

Construction and building inspectors spend considerable time inspecting construction worksites, alone or as part of a team. Some inspectors may have to climb ladders or crawl in tight spaces. Most work full time during regular business hours.

How to Become a Construction or Building Inspector

Most employers require construction and building inspectors to have at least a high school diploma and considerable knowledge of construction trades. Construction and building inspectors typically learn informally on the job. Many states and local jurisdictions require some type of license or certification.

Pay

The median annual wage of construction and building inspectors was $52,360 in May 2010.

Job Outlook

Employment of construction and building inspectors is expected to grow 18 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Concern for public safety and a desire to improve the quality of construction are expected to spur employment growth. Those who are certified and can perform a variety of inspections should have the best job opportunities.

Similar Occupations

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of construction and building inspectors with similar occupations.

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What Construction and Building Inspectors Do About this section

Home inspectors inform potential homebuyers of a home’s deficiencies.

Construction and building inspectors ensure that new construction, changes, or repairs comply with local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.

Duties

Construction and building inspectors typically do the following:

Review and approve plans that meet building codes, local ordinances, and zoning regulations
Inspect and monitor construction sites to ensure overall compliance
Use survey instruments, metering devices, and test equipment to perform inspections
Monitor installation of plumbing, electrical, and other systems to ensure that the building meets codes
Verify level, alignment, and elevation of structures and fixtures to ensure building compliance
Issue violation notices and stop-work orders until building is compliant
Keep daily logs, including photographs taken during inspection

Construction and building inspectors examine buildings, highways and streets, sewer and water systems, dams, bridges, and other structures. They also inspect electrical; heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR); and plumbing systems. Although no two inspections are alike, inspectors do an initial check during the first phase of construction and follow-up inspections throughout the construction project. When the project is finished, they do a final, comprehensive inspection.

The following are types of construction and building inspectors:

Building inspectors check the structural quality and general safety of buildings. Some specialize in structural steel or reinforced-concrete structures, for example.

Electrical inspectors examine the installed electrical systems to ensure they function properly and comply with electrical codes and standards. The inspectors visit worksites to inspect new and existing sound and security systems, wiring, lighting, motors, and generating equipment. They also inspect the installed electrical wiring for HVACR systems and appliances.

Elevator inspectors examine lifting and conveying devices, such as elevators, escalators, moving sidewalks, lifts and hoists, inclined railways, ski lifts, and amusement rides.

Home inspectors typically inspect newly built or previously owned homes, condominiums, townhomes, and other dwellings. Prospective home buyers often hire home inspectors to check and report on a home’s structure and overall condition. Sometimes, homeowners hire a home inspector to evaluate their home’s condition before placing it on the market.

In addition to examining structural quality, home inspectors examine all home systems and features, including roofing, exterior walls, attached garage or carport, foundation, interior, plumbing, electrical, and HVACR systems. They look for and report violations of building codes, but they do not have the power to enforce compliance with the codes.

Mechanical inspectors examine the installation of HVACR systems and equipment to ensure that they are installed and function properly. They also may inspect commercial kitchen equipment, gas-fired appliances, and boilers.

Plan examiners determine whether the plans for a building or other structure comply with building codes. They also determine whether the structure is suited to the engineering and environmental demands of the building site.

Plumbing inspectors examine the installation of potable water, waste, and vent piping systems to ensure the safety and health of the drinking water system, piping for industrial uses, and the sanitary disposal of waste.

Public works inspectors ensure that federal, state, and local government water and sewer systems, highways, streets, bridges, and dam construction conform to detailed contract specifications. Workers inspect excavation and fill operations, the placement of forms for concrete, concrete mixing and pouring, asphalt paving, and grading operations. Public works inspectors may specialize in highways, structural steel, reinforced concrete, or ditches. Others specialize in dredging operations required for bridges and dams or for harbors.

Specification inspectors ensure that work is performed according to design specifications. Specification inspectors represent the owner’s interests, not those of the general public. Insurance companies and financial institutions also may use their services.

A primary concern of building inspectors is fire prevention safety. For more information, see the profile on fire inspectors and investigators.

Work Environment About this section

Building inspectors often work outdoors to check the exterior structure of a house.

Construction and building inspectors held about 102,400 jobs in 2010. About 51 percent of inspectors were employed in government, most of which were in local government. An additional 25 percent were employed in the architectural, engineering, and related services industry. About 11 percent were self-employed.

Although construction and building inspectors spend most of their time inspecting construction worksites, they also spend time in a field office reviewing blueprints, writing reports, and scheduling inspections.

Some inspectors may have to climb ladders or crawl in tight spaces.

Inspectors typically work alone. However, several inspectors may be assigned to large, complex projects, particularly because inspectors usually specialize in different areas of construction.

Work Schedules

Most construction and building inspectors work full time during regular business hours. However, some may work additional hours during periods of heavy construction activity. Also, if an accident occurs at a construction site, inspectors must respond immediately and may work additional hours to complete their report. Nongovernment inspectors—especially those who are self-employed—may have to work evenings and weekends.

How to Become a Construction or Building Inspector About this section

Inspectors often have to climb in tight spaces.

Training

Training requirements vary by type of inspector, state, and local jurisdictions. In general, construction and building inspectors receive much of their training on the job, although they must learn building codes and standards on their own. Working with an experienced inspector, they learn about inspection techniques; codes, ordinances, and regulations; contract specifications; and recordkeeping and reporting duties. Supervised onsite inspections also may be a part of the training.

Education

Most employers require workers to have at least a high school diploma, even for workers who have considerable experience.

Employers also seek candidates who have studied engineering or architecture or who have a certificate or an associate’s degree that includes completion of courses in building inspection, home inspection, construction technology, and drafting. Many community colleges offer programs in building inspection technology. Courses in blueprint reading, algebra, geometry, shop, and English also are useful.

A growing number of construction and building inspectors are entering the occupation with a bachelor’s degree, which often can substitute for experience.

Licenses and Certification

Many states and local jurisdictions require some type of license or certification. Typical requirements for licensure or certification include experience; minimum education, such as a high school diploma; and passing a state-approved exam.

Some states have individual licensing programs for construction and building inspectors. Others may require certification by associations such as the International Code Council, International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, International Association of Electrical Inspectors, and National Fire Protection Association.

Similarly, most states require home inspectors to follow defined trade practices or get a state-issued license or certification. Currently, 35 states have regulations affecting home inspectors. Requirements for a home inspector license or certification vary by state but may include having a minimum level of education, having a set amount of experience with inspections, purchasing liability insurance of a certain amount, and passing an exam. The exam is often based on American Society of Home Inspectors and National Association of Home Inspectors exams. Most inspectors must renew their license every few years and take continuing education courses.

Inspectors must have a valid driver’s license because they must travel to inspection sites.

Work Experience

Because inspectors must possess the right mix of technical knowledge, experience, and education, employers prefer applicants who have both formal training and experience. For example, many inspectors previously worked as carpenters, electricians, or plumbers. Home inspectors combine knowledge of multiple specialties, so many of them come into the occupation having a combination of certifications and previous experience in various construction trades.

Important Qualities

Communication skills. Home inspectors must have good communication skills to be able to explain any problems they find and to help people understand what is needed to fix the problems.

Craft experience. Although not required, having experience in a related construction occupation provides inspectors with the necessary background that may help them with the certification process.

Detail oriented. Inspectors must thoroughly examine many different construction activities, often at the same time. Therefore, inspectors must pay close attention to detail so as to not overlook any items that need to be inspected.

Mechanical knowledge. Inspectors use a variety of testing equipment as they check complex systems. In addition to using such equipment, they must also have detailed knowledge of how the systems operate.

Pay About this section

Construction and Building Inspectors

Median annual wages, May 2010

Construction and Building Inspectors: $52,360
Other Construction and Related Workers: $38,820
Total, All Occupations: $33,840

The median annual wage of construction and building inspectors was $52,360 in May 2010. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,970, and the top 10 percent earned more than $81,050.

Most inspectors work full time during regular business hours. However, some may work additional hours during periods of heavy construction activity. Also, if an accident occurs at a construction site, inspectors must respond immediately and may work additional hours to complete their report. Nongovernment inspectors—especially those who are self-employed—may have to work evenings and weekends. About 11 percent of construction and building inspectors were self-employed in 2010, which is similar to other construction occupations.

Job Outlook About this section

Construction and Building Inspectors

Percent change in employment, projected 2010-20

Construction and Building Inspectors: 18%
Other Construction and Related Workers: 15%
Total, All Occupations: 14%

Employment of construction and building inspectors is expected to grow 18 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Concern for public safety and a desire to improve the quality of construction should continue to increase demand for inspectors. Employment growth is expected to be strongest in government and in firms specializing in architectural, engineering, and related services.

Concerns about natural and manmade disasters are increasing the need for qualified inspectors. New niche fields, including green and sustainable design, may require additional inspectors.

Although employment of home inspectors should continue to grow, some states are increasingly limiting entry into the field to those with experience or to those who are certified.

Job Prospects

Construction and building inspectors who are certified and can do a variety of inspections should have the best job opportunities. Inspectors with construction-related work experience or training in engineering, architecture, construction technology, or related fields will likely also have better job prospects. In addition, inspectors with thorough knowledge of construction practices and skills, such as reading and evaluating blueprints and plans, should have better job opportunities.

Larger jurisdictions usually hire specialized inspectors with knowledge in a particular area of construction, such as electrical or plumbing. Conversely, for budgetary reasons, smaller jurisdictions typically prefer to hire combination inspectors with broad knowledge of multiple disciplines.

Until recently, inspectors were thought to be less affected by the ups and downs of construction activity. Significant staff cuts in some areas, however, should result in strong competition for available jobs. Those who are self-employed, such as home inspectors, are more likely to be affected by economic downturns or fluctuations in the real estate market.

Employment projections data for construction and building inspectors, 2010-20
Occupational Title	SOC Code	Employment, 2010	Projected Employment, 2020	Change, 2010-20		Employment by Industry
Occupational Title	SOC Code	Employment, 2010	Projected Employment, 2020	Percent	Numeric	Employment by Industry
SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
Construction and Building Inspectors	47-4011	102,400	120,800	18	18,400	[XLS]

Similar Occupations About this section

This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of construction and building inspectors.

Occupation	Job Duties	ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION	2010 MEDIAN PAY
Carpenters	Carpenters construct and repair building frameworks and structures—such as stairways, doorframes, partitions, and rafters—made from wood and other materials. They also may install kitchen cabinets, siding, and drywall.	High school diploma or equivalent	$39,530
Electricians	Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories.	High school diploma or equivalent	$48,250
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters	Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install and repair pipes that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases to and in businesses, homes, and factories.	High school diploma or equivalent	$46,660
Architects	Architects plan and design buildings and other structures.	Bachelor’s degree	$72,550
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists	Cartographers and photogrammetrists measure, analyze, and interpret geographic information to create maps and charts for political, cultural, educational, and other purposes. Cartographers are general mapmakers, and photogrammetrists are specialized mapmakers who use aerial photographs to create maps.	Bachelor’s degree	$54,510
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians	Electrical and electronic engineering technicians help engineers design and develop computers, communications equipment, medical monitoring devices, navigational equipment, and other electrical and electronic equipment. They often work in product evaluation and testing, using measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and repair equipment.	Associate’s degree	$56,040
Civil Engineers	Civil engineers design and supervise large construction projects, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment.	Bachelor’s degree	$77,560
Electrical and Electronics Engineers	Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, and power generation equipment. Electronics engineers design and develop electronic equipment, such as broadcast and communications systems—from portable music players to global positioning systems (GPS).	Bachelor’s degree	$87,180
Surveying and Mapping Technicians	Surveying and mapping technicians assist surveyors and cartographers in collecting data and making maps of the earth’s surface. Surveying technicians visit sites to take measurements of the land. Mapping technicians use geographic data to create maps.	High school diploma or equivalent	$37,900
Surveyors	Surveyors establish official land, airspace, and water boundaries. Surveyors work with civil engineers, landscape architects, and urban and regional planners to develop comprehensive design documents.	Bachelor’s degree	$54,880
Surveying and Mapping Technicians	Surveying and mapping technicians assist surveyors and cartographers in collecting data and making maps of the earth’s surface. Surveying technicians visit sites to take measurements of the land. Mapping technicians use geographic data to create maps.	High school diploma or equivalent	$37,900
Construction Managers	Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from early development to completion.	Associate’s degree	$83,860
Cost Estimators	Cost estimators collect and analyze data to estimate the time, money, resources, and labor required for product manufacturing, construction projects, or services. Some specialize in a particular industry or product type.	Bachelor’s degree	$57,860
Appraisers and Assessors of Real Estate	Appraisers and assessors of real estate estimate the value of real property—land and the buildings on that land— before it is sold, mortgaged, taxed, insured, or developed.	High school diploma or equivalent	$48,500