Building inspectors work to ensure all construction complies with local zoning ordinances and other regulations, from checking grades and spacing of joists to fire safety requirements and staircase inspections.
Trustworthy building inspectors will ensure fair and educated inspections, helping you avoid fines or legal complications that might otherwise arise.
Code Inspector
A code inspector evaluates building construction plans to make sure a project complies with both local and national building codes. He examines architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection drawings as well as drainage reports related to proposed building projects as well as documents such as soil reports before issuing approval for floor framing, wall framing or roof structures before construction can start.
He inspects existing buildings for health and safety issues. In nonresidential buildings he conducts life safety practices inspections such as smoke alarms and exit routes as well as property maintenance inspections on rental properties.
Building codes protect the public against structural instability, inadequate means of egress, sanitation issues and hazardous wiring; but code inspectors’ work is often difficult and underappreciated. Many code officials feel overwhelmed by their workload and don’t receive proper recognition for reducing injuries, deaths and economic losses associated with unsafe structures; it would be wonderful if more recognition could be shown towards their contribution in protecting public safety – their success requires special education and training!
Energy Efficiency Inspector
Building inspectors who specialize in energy efficiency specialize in inspecting businesses for energy consumption and making recommendations to improve it, conducting tests using specialized equipment to measure performance and conducting inspections on fire safety elements such as sprinklers, alarms and smoke control systems as well as their proximity to adjacent structures.
These professionals dedicate much of their time in addition to conducting inspections to reviewing blueprints and writing reports in the office. In addition, they may meet with clients and construction contractors via phone calls or emails for consultation purposes.
Building inspectors typically work for local governments; however, some also freelance and consult for architectural firms, real estate companies and construction contractors. Building inspectors specialize in various inspection fields like electrical, plumbing and mechanical testing while others qualify as combination inspectors with experience across several areas of inspection. Residential and commercial construction projects must comply with relevant codes, while these inspectors also monitor progress towards completion before signing occupation certificates upon completion of each job site.
Structural Inspector
Structural inspectors are licensed engineers who work to inspect both residential and commercial properties to ensure the building is safe for its inhabitants and guests. A structural inspection involves inspecting primary structural components like foundation, framing and roof; issues within these components beyond visible appearance are also examined for possible environmental causes of damage.
An expert structural inspector is capable of pinpointing the source of any issue and suggesting cost-effective solutions that address it. This can be particularly valuable in older homes where problems such as broad cracks and foundation shifts could indicate serious structural issues requiring attention.
Structural inspections are important when building new homes to ensure they can withstand any potential earthquake or natural disaster. Conducting one prior to selling also allows homeowners to request any necessary repairs on their properties.
Electrical Inspector
An electrical inspector’s primary job is to inspect wiring and other electrical devices within buildings. He or she may work for a government agency dedicated to inspections or independently; either way, his services are essential in protecting both people living in homes and businesses alike.
An electrician may inspect everything from the service panel to wiring in a home, looking for signs of corrosion and making sure wire gauge is appropriate for amperage (for instance, 15-amp circuits require 14-gauge wire while 20-amp require 12-gauge). They will also ensure outlets are adequately protected by ground fault circuit interrupters in areas like kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.
An electrical inspector who understands the National Electric Code well can serve to educate those he inspects about it, helping them become better aware of what their installations require and encouraging them to produce work they are proud to show off – offering sincere praise when quality workmanship is seen; doing this may increase compliance with future inspections.
Plumbing Inspector
An expert plumbing inspector assesses all areas where water flows in a home. This includes pipes, toilets, sinks, bathtubs, showers and the water heater – everything that provides access for water to enter and leave the property. They look out for leaks, poor fittings and drainage issues while checking lateral sewer pipes connecting houses to municipal supply lines.
Routine plumbing inspections can save money on utility bills. Leaks in your system can waste water and dramatically increase utility costs; Metro-Flow’s experts are skilled at identifying these issues and suggesting repairs to improve water efficiency, while testing water pressure to make sure everything is functioning as it should be.
Before purchasing or selling your home, obtaining a plumbing inspection is highly recommended to prevent major problems from developing that could potentially cost thousands. Furthermore, having peace of mind knowing your plumbing system is in excellent condition provides added peace of mind.
Routine plumbing inspections for commercial properties are also essential. A clogged drain or minor leak can quickly turn into major headaches that impact operations if left unaddressed; even worse, unchecked issues could compromise the very foundation of your building itself.
