Building Inspector

building inspector
$62,860
Average salary

What Construction and Building Inspectors Do
Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction meets building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.

Work Environment
Construction and building inspectors examine worksites, both alone and as part of a team. Some inspectors climb ladders or crawl in tight spaces. Most work full time during regular business hours.

How to Become a Construction or Building Inspector
Construction and building inspectors usually need a high school diploma and work experience in a construction trade to enter the occupation. They typically learn on the job to attain competency. Many states and localities require some type of license or certification.

Pay
The median annual wage for construction and building inspectors was $62,860 in May 2020.

Job Outlook
Employment of construction and building inspectors is projected to grow 3 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Public interest in safety and the desire to improve the quality of construction should continue to create demand for inspectors. Certified construction and building inspectors who can perform a variety of inspections should have the best job opportunities.

Construction and building inspector duties:

Home inspectors typically examine houses, condominiums, townhomes, and other dwellings to report on their structure and overall condition. Home sellers or home buyers, or both, may seek inspectors’ objective assessment of a dwelling before placing it on the market or submitting an offer.

Review building plans and approve those that meet requirements
Monitor construction sites periodically to ensure overall compliance
Use equipment and testing devices, such as moisture meters to check for plumbing leaks or flooding damage and electrical testers to ensure that electrical components are functional
Inspect plumbing, electrical, and other systems to ensure that they meet code
Use survey equipment to verify alignment, level, and elevation of structures and ensure building meets specifications
Issue violation notices and stop-work orders if building is not compliant
Keep daily logs, which may include digital images from inspections
Document findings in writing

Jobs Board

Careers in Construction

Explore Careers