Becoming a construction inspector is a great way to make a living, but it’s not always easy. If you want to be a construction inspector, you need the right skills, education, and experience.
To become a construction inspector, you need at least two years of experience in construction. You also need to have good math skills and be able to read plans and blueprints. Construction inspectors also have to be able to work with people from all walks of life.
If you want to become a construction inspector, start by getting an associate’s degree in construction management or civil engineering technology. Then apply for an apprenticeship with your state’s apprenticeship program or with your local union chapter if there is one in your area. It will take about 4 years before you can become an inspector on your own after getting your license from the state board of examiners for the trade.
How To Become Construction Inspector
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 $61,640 in May 2021.
Job Outlook
Employment of construction and building inspectors is projected to decline 3 percent from 2020 to 2030.
Despite declining employment, about 14,300 openings for construction and building inspectors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for construction and building inspectors.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of construction and building inspectors with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about construction and building inspectors by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
If you set out to exit society and build your little shack in the woods, you might be able to avoid the visit of a construction inspector. In any other case, it is their job to come around whenever there is construction on the way and poke their noses around to see if everything is up to speed with regulations, building codes, and design specifications.
As it is generally the case with any type of inspector position, you will most likely make people uncomfortable with your inspection. It is probably best not to take this kind of thing personally, though. Instead, go ahead and review plans, monitor the construction site with your survey equipment to verify alignment, levels, and structures.
You will check the plumbing and electrical wiring as well and document your findings. In case something you find happens to be less than copacetic, you will have to issue violation notices and put a halt to work orders. Then you will have to leave the site elegantly and quickly.
What Does a Construction Inspector Do
Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction meets local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.Learn More About What A Construction Inspector Does
How To Become a Construction Inspector
Most employers require construction and building inspectors to have at least a high school diploma and considerable knowledge of construction trades. Inspectors typically learn on the job. Many states and local jurisdictions require some type of license or certification.Education
Most employers require inspectors to have at least a high school diploma, even for workers who have considerable related work experience.
Employers also seek candidates who have studied engineering or architecture or who have a certificate or an associate’s degree that includes courses in building inspection, home inspection, construction technology, and drafting. Many community colleges offer programs in building inspection technology. Courses in blueprint reading, vocational subjects, algebra, geometry, and writing are also useful. Courses in business management are helpful for those who plan to run their own inspection business.
A growing number of construction and building inspectors are entering the occupation with a bachelor’s degree, which can often substitute for related work experience.Training
Training requirements vary by state, locality, and type of inspector. 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. Training also may include supervised onsite inspections.Work Experience in a Related Occupation
Because inspectors must possess the right mix of technical knowledge, work experience, and education, employers prefer applicants who have both training and experience in a construction trade. For example, many inspectors have experience working as carpenters, electricians, or plumbers. Many home inspectors combine knowledge of multiple specialties, so many of them enter the occupation having a combination of certifications and previous experience in various construction trades.Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
Most states and local jurisdictions require construction and building inspectors to have a license or certification. Some states have individual licensing programs for construction and building inspectors. Others may require certification by associations such as the International Code Council, the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, the International Association of Electrical Inspectors, and the National Fire Protection Association.
Similarly, most states require home inspectors to follow defined trade practices or obtain a state-issued license or certification. Currently, 36 states have policies regulating the conduct of home inspectors; a few states are considering adding licensure or certification requirements for home inspectors.
Home inspector license or certification requirements vary by state but may require that inspectors do the following:
- Achieve a specified level of education
- Possess experience with inspections
- Maintain liability insurance
- Pass an exam
The exam is often based on the American Society of Home Inspectors and National Association of Home Inspectors certification exams. Most inspectors must renew their license periodically and take continuing education courses.
Inspectors must have a valid driver’s license because they must travel to inspection sites.Important Qualities
Communication skills. Inspectors must have good communication skills in order to explain any problems they find and to help people understand what is needed to fix the problems. In addition, they need to provide a written report of their findings.
Craft experience. Inspectors perform checks and inspections throughout the construction project. Experience in a related construction occupation provides inspectors with the necessary background to become certified.
Detail oriented. Inspectors must thoroughly examine many different construction activities, often at the same time. Therefore, they must pay close attention to detail so as to not overlook any items that need to be checked.
Mechanical knowledge. Inspectors use a variety of testing equipment as they check complex systems. In order to perform tests properly, they also must have detailed knowledge of how the systems operate.
Physical stamina. Inspectors are constantly on their feet and often must crawl through attics and other tight spaces. As a result, they should be somewhat physically fit.
