How To Become A Building Inspector

Building code inspectors are evolving. The position is not just for the framer, electrician or other trades professional that has been working in the field and on job sites for 30 years. A career as a building inspector is growing and appealing to the younger generation and is available to anyone who wants to get certified and educate themselves in building code and requirements.
Though field experience and/or some continued education in the world of construction is a plus, anyone can sign up for and schedule testing to get certified in a wide range of building code subjects. Visit www.iccsafe.org to look over all the different areas of inspection that exist.
The most common certifications are commercial or residential building inspectors, and plumbing, electrical, and mechanical inspectors. These positions are usually held by a government agency such as a city, county or state jurisdiction. Specialty certifications in fire caulk, concrete, welding, soils, etc. are usually found in private businesses where services are contracted out by the general contractor.
Government held positions usually have generous benefits and time off. For myself, quality of life was a big factor and being able to remove myself from my job when the shift is over is a huge benefit.
Life as a building inspector allows you to be outdoors for most of the day and out on construction job sites. It gives you the ability to get to know local contractors, build knowledge in all different types of construction and all without having to beat up your body pulling wire, hanging duct work or swinging a hammer.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions on what it's like to be a building inspector at [e-mail].
Subscribe to this channel and check out other videos made especially for homeowners, like you, to help you get through home projects confidently, while also saving time and money on expensive re-dos. Visit www.buildingcodetips.com for blogs and guides on building code, construction processes, tips, tricks and more - all for the DIYer.
Disclaimer: Videos produced by Building Code Tips are for informational purposes only. Viewers must be aware that any projects performed utilizing the guidance and/or suggestions given by Building Code Tips and its representatives is at the viewers sole risk and Building Code Tips cannot be held liable if any damage is caused to their homes, surrounding structures, persons, etc. With different codes around the world and constantly changing standards, regulations and rules, it is the sole responsibility of the viewer to educate themselves on their local requirements before undertaking any sort of project and Building Code Tips cannot be held liable for information inaccuracy.

[@codycook6316]

I've been an inspector for about 6 months now with absolutely no prior experience but I was able to buy a few codebooks, take a couple online courses (wc3 academy) and get certified in all four residential areas and am now working on commercial certs. I wanted to comment here to say that its totally doable with no knowledge or experience. Love to see people like you getting that information out there!

[@buildingcodetips]

Thanks Cody for sharing! This is great information for those trying to get started. How are you liking being an inspector? What areas of work are you inspecting (residential, commercial, plumbing, etc)?

[@codycook6316]

@@buildingcodetips I love the job! I do all four areas pretty regularly, the demand where I live is pretty high but I've come such a long way since starting in on the books. Truly recommended this work to anyone even remotely interested!

[@buildingcodetips]

@@codycook6316 That's great! You may already know this but when you take the B2 Commercial Building Inspector Certification test you can turn around and take the plans examiner test as well using the same materials. The parameters of the test are the same. Its a great way to add to your resume and set yourself up for plan review down the road if you ever want to go that route! Good luck on your tests - Ben

[@jkstall3131]

I’ve been trying to do self study for 2 years now and only have passed the B1, I think those test are hard as heck. Does the wc3 academy really help?

[@youngremy1133]

Where would you buy an international code book and also does it has everything or would I would have to get other books?

[@FrancescoTangorra]

I'm glad your channel popped up on my recommended list. Subscribed. Keep these videos coming!👍

[@buildingcodetips]

I will do my best! 🙂 Have a good weekend.

[@Verdad2024]

I really appreciate this video. I recently started on the path

[@Parker-ue6ye]

Very insightful Ben!

[@Kaygee79]

Hey fellow Building Inspector! I've been a Residential and Small Commercial Building Inspector for about a decade. I am located in Toronto Ontario Canada so I use the Ontario Building Code. I can relate very well to you being on the job site and being in the mix of everything. You don't have to kill yourself on site with the manual labour, but at the same time you're responsible for helping to make sure everything gets built properly. I always get joy from teaching others how to build properly. The items you explain in this video are very common things that come up in everyday construction. Many people confuse the home inspectors with Building Inspectors. I have what is called BCIN number here in Ontario which sounds similar to your qualifications to work with a Building Department. This is a great channel! Glad to come across you and I always am curious to know how similar/different the Canadian and American codes are! My favourite thing about being an inspector is that you get to see the best work to the worst work so you know the true levels of quality and you really know what is good and bad when it comes to construction! Cheers!

[@buildingcodetips]

Thanks for the comment! I have always been curious what type of codes Canada uses. I always figured you guys used some form the the international I-Codes. Interesting that Ontario has its own. And very true about seeing the best and worst sides of the construction trade. Definitely seen some real head scratchers!!

[@Kaygee79]

@@buildingcodetips Hey, the feeling is mutual hence why I was excited to come across your KZbin channel and learn a bit about the way it is done in America! In Canada we have the National Building Code and from that each Province derives its own Provincial Building Code hence the Ontario Building Code for me. Within this code it gives all the rules for all types of construction from residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, etc. There are different parts of our building code that focus on various areas. In the Ontario Building Code Part 9 of the Code is specifically for residential construction and breaks down many prescriptive measures of minimum construction requirements. I can imagine the head scratchers you've come across, I can totally relate to that! :D

[@jacobverdugo6558]

Great video thanks bro !

[@RaDaGod212]

Thank you

[@anthonyolivarez8454]

I just got my 2018 irc and super passionate a out being a city inspector this has been my dream job for a while and now I am super hyped to become one now.!

[@buildingcodetips]

That’s awesome! If you ever have any questions that i may be able to help out with let me know.

[@anthonyolivarez8454]

@@buildingcodetips I really appreciate it I am just finishing up with my quick tabs and your videos motivate me to get this certification even more because your reasons on why you like being a inspector I can relate and say I want to do those things and extend my knowledge and job security and happiness in what you do.

[@cocomonalisa1040]

Bravo Anthony..Give Us some testing pointers please

[@buildingcodetips]

@@cocomonalisa1040 Get the flash cards! They were a great help for me when studying.

[@pameladenton2869]

I’ve been a permit tech for a year. I have so much to learn but the inspectors in my office are busy, out in the field and not really approachable. (It takes time to get to know people) Any suggestions? I will be taking a permit tech class this spring, but there is still so much to learn. Thanks for your videos.👍

[@kagyu1]

Here in NorCal, counties require either a 30 credit course plus certification and / or an associate’s degree that includes those courses. Great video . Informative for someone heading down that road.

[@buildingcodetips]

Thanks for the comment!

[@J1mmyj4me5]

@kagyu1 where in NorCal ?

[@fwilliams1210]

This was a great video. Thanks fro sharing . liked and subscribed.

[@buildingcodetips]

I am glad you liked it! Thanks for the support

[@TellersandTales]

You got me hooked! Let's go!

[@buildingcodetips]

Hells ya!

[@TellersandTales]

@@buildingcodetips any tips on interviewing for this position? I have one early September.

[@buildingcodetips]

@@TellersandTales the key word that was thrown around during my interview was “intent”. Follow the intent of the code. There are so many different scenarios in the building world that not everything will follow the code book perfectly. The other big words or phrase to memorize is Fire, life, and safety. Building code is based around around fire, life, safety. Hope that helps and good luck! I hope you get it.

[@Leotheconstructionguy]

Great video I’m currently working as a quality control specialist for a roofing and siding company and I’m planning on becoming a building inspector eventually

[@buildingcodetips]

Hey Leo, that’s awesome! There are lots of jobs out there from what i see around my area. If you start diving into the building code to get certified the inspector certification and the plans examiner certification are basically the same test under the IBC (international building code). Its not residential, but a great way to double up your certs and give yourself multiple paths to go down. If you ever have any questions feel free to reach out!

[@Leotheconstructionguy]

@@buildingcodetips awesome thank you

[@mykebill9402]

Me too ... I don't see why we can't do both home inspections and building inspection

[@Leotheconstructionguy]

@@mykebill9402 two completely different jobs one is a private company job the other works for a city, town or county

[@whocares9273]

In Los Angeles ca. does it require school certification to get a license from city hall?

[@Killerqueen-oi7si]

I told one customer who came into my job that I’m studying to become a ‘Home Inspector’ and he told me the real money is in construction inspection. I can’t wait to go for it.

[@buildingcodetips]

Hell ya!! That’s awesome. If you ever have any questions feel free to reach out. Its been a great job and career so far for me.

[@Killerqueen-oi7si]

@@buildingcodetips thank you appreciate it I definitely will.

[@edwardr.gheraii4716]

I've been in construction inspection for 4 years and it is great money, but the hours can take a toll on your social life. Also the certification exams can be quite difficult. Masonry and reinforced concrete were brutal.

[@everegenx]

@@edwardr.gheraii4716would you say its worth your time & efforts? Whats your salary?

[@clarenceoliveriii]

@@edwardr.gheraii4716thanks for sharing. How many exams is it usually? Also the cost of the exam? Lastly are the jobs usually hourly or salary?

[@isaiahgibson3699]

Should I get other certifications besides getting the license im working towards? New in the field

[@Ayyeb]

I'm in California just turned 22 always knew I wanted to do this since I was a kid. Did my AA in Construction Management and did a year of estimating and purchasing for a framing company. Now I'm trying to work for the city to do inspections then become a city planner. My question is... is project managing certifications good for the long road for what I want to eventually accomplish Glad to hear you're in construction management as well!!! Big confidence booster

[@Ayyeb]

Also!!! Could you show us what an OUTSTANDING resume looks like

[@buildingcodetips]

Congrats on the CM degree. Its a great degree that provides lots of different roads to go down! When you say city planner do you mean city plans examiner or city planner that designs and plans out the city landscape, zoning and how it will grow for the future? For the plans examiner I would start studying for the California building plans examiners certification. Exam I6 on the iccsafe.org website. For the city planner roll some type of additional education in urban planning would be beneficial for sure. This is not an area that I am knowledgeable in but as far as a resume builder it wouldn't hurt!

[@Ayyeb]

@@buildingcodetips thank you so much!! I meant the urban planning aspect of how a town will grow in the future. Thank you for all your insight. Love your channel, it's all great information and motivational for the career I'm in.

[@ourlifeisastory5138]

Solar Energy for Engineers, Architects and Code Inspectors Specialization is a cousre online would that be uselful in any way

[@johnathanwilliams421]

thanks for the video, when started off. Is the Residential Building Inspectors - B1 the first start to getting started ?

[@buildingcodetips]

It probably depends on what you want to specialize in and what your local city or county requires for certifications. For some reason where I work they want us to get our Commercial Building Inspector first (B2). Even though I inspect commercial and residential. My guess is that B1 would be the best place to start especially if you are more familiar with residential construction then commercial. Make sure to check the corresponding plans examiner certification with whatever inspector certification you are going for. In the past when I was studying the two certifications were identical in study material so I took both tests back to back and now have plans examiner on my resume just in case! Good Luck...And if you happen to live in California or Florida, they have their own specific certs.

[@johnathanwilliams421]

@@buildingcodetips thank you!

[@Mystery322]

I would like to know how was it at the beginning was it hard to get client how did you hike ur self !!

[@buildingcodetips]

Hello, As a building inspector there is no need to generate a client base. Building inspectors typically work for a building department and complete inspections when someone buys a permit. A home inspector on the other hand would need to generate a client base. From what I have seen a great way to do that in the beginning is to get in with some realtors that will refer you. Hope that helps!

[@Frumbler]

I'm taking a pay cut to become a building inspector. My body hurts and can't stay on the tools four much longer. Better benefits. Better hours in the inspector field

[@buildingcodetips]

Totally agree! Glad you found something that works and hopefully you enjoy it. I had to take a pay cut as well but after a couple years I was right back where I left off with much better benefits.

[@RayNomadic]

I remember growing up the homeowners actually owned the land and could do what they want with their land without getting someone else's approval. The days of freedom. Sad people don't have the freedoms to actually own their property now a days.

[@buildingcodetips]

Hey Ray, I am a redneck at heart and grew up in a small rural town so I definitely understand and agree with your comment!

[@chandrakantpatel3969]

Hi bro, this video is quite helpful and informative for biginers and i am also interested in same kind of job. I just want information regarding exam preparation or institute for cetain courses like this in new jersey.

[@buildingcodetips]

Hey there, glad the video helped! I do have another video on how I prepared for the exams that I will attach. There were also some comments about the wc3 academy that were positive. I never used them but might be worth looking into. Here is the link to my video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGWXYqmHpsppi8k Hope it helps!

[@danielloera5482]

I’ve worked as a carpenter for 5 years I want to become a inspector but I have no idea where to start

[@buildingcodetips]

You might start by checking your local city and county websites for open positions. In many places you would qualify for an entry level inspector position with a requirement that you get the required certifications in a year or two. If you were able to build up your resume with even one certification it would probably help your chances out quite a bit. Check out iccsafe.org. They are the code developers and have all the certifications there, as well a training and even some posted job positions throughout the US. If you need anything else or have some more questions feel free to reach out!!

[@BL-hj7ht]

Quick pass and Udemy (study guide writers) and the ICC meet together and make sure they write their study guides and tests so that it is highly likely that you fail multiple times. They do this of course to maximize profits. So if you fail the tests and you are outraged because you studied like mad and knew the material inside and out.....and still failed, don't feel too bad. They do this on purpose mostly because they know that building inspectors work for the government and they have huge budgets for testing.

[@gabecornejo498]

If I’m studying to be a building inspector (1 year of college so far) will it be easier for me to pass the tests to get certified?

[@buildingcodetips]

I would think so. The tests really come down to how fast you can find the answer in the book but the more you know off the top of your head the better. Code books are boring as all hell but keep spending time in it (whichever one you are looking to get certified in) and you will do great! Good Luck

[@frankmartinez7782]

Did you go through ICC to get your certification?

[@buildingcodetips]

Yes, except for my plumbing. My state runs under the UPC not the IPC so I got that cert through IAPMO. All others were through ICC. Hope that helps!

[@frankmartinez7782]

@@buildingcodetips I plan on taking the California j1 exam and I know it’s based on the 2019 code book so i just purchased the 2019 California residential code book would that be sufficient enough to study with to pass I know the exam is open book, thanks in advance

[@buildingcodetips]

Ya for sure...Here is what is listed under the exam on the ICC website - "2019 California Residential Code, Title 24, Part 2.5 * any copyrighted, bound book may be used at a test site. Exam questions will only come from the listed approved references, and exam appeals may only be based on the listed approved references." Says its a 2hr exam with 50 questions, open book. I always break these tests down to how much time I get per question. If you need a 75 to pass than you can get 12 wrong and still pass. That would leave you with 3.15 minutes per question and if you knew 5 to 10 off the top of your head you would get even more time per question. So when you think you are familiar enough to find something in your code book in 2.5 to 3 minutes you should be ready for the test. At least that's how I gauge it! Check out more info and sign up for your exam at www.iccsafe.org/certification-exam-catalog/

[@TheMegahotdogman]

is there any schools out there that help you get certified? Also, I live in California is it any different/harder to get certified out here?

[@buildingcodetips]

Visit iccsafe.org. That is where you can find online courses, research certifications that you might want to go for, buy study material and even look at open jobs. I saw a entry level inspector job in Chula Vista, CA on there and it looked like you could get in the door with only a year of construction experience or some college classes. Then they give you 2 years to get your certifications. Thats how it worked for me as well. I got hired on and spent the first year studying to get my certifications. Worked out well and this way you can get your employer to pay for your study material! I did hear about a place you could go and actually attend classes, in Oregon, I believe but i am not completely confident it is still there. Beyond some specific certifications that California may have for seismic or something you should be ok with the certifications available on iccsafe.org. Just make sure you are studying for the certifications that will help you get or hold onto the job you want. Most ofter the B1 residential and B2 commercial building inspector certifications are the place to start.

[@TheMegahotdogman]

Thanks! Really appreciate the help. I actually just applied for a position! I’m sure I won’t be considered for it but even an interview will take me one step closer to achieving this goal. Maybe I can find a class for construction technology to give me a boost

[@buildingcodetips]

@@TheMegahotdogman that’s great, I hope you get an interview! If you are wanting to get some of the basic construction knowledge and kinda what we look for i put together some guides/courses at buildingcodetips.com. I will give you a screaming deal if you think it would help. If you are looking for something more resume worthy than any of the courses or trainings on the iccsafe.org would be good.

[@capoconstruction1961]

What city do you live in. Some junior colleges offer classes

[@714painters2]

​@Building Code Tips thanks for the info

[@GangGANGSK8]

I am a Home Inspector in AZ, which career path is better, residential inspection or commercial?

[@buildingcodetips]

If you are a home inspector you might look into residential inspection. Both certifications, residential and commercial, take a commitment to studying but I would think that your background would make the residential side easier. Personally, I would probably start there and then work towards my commercial and plans examiner certs once you get into it.

[@GangGANGSK8]

@@buildingcodetips thanks for the response.

[@diamondkutz54]

That's the big problem is people not having any experience in the building trades and becoming building inspectors. It's a joke. I had one on a job that I was doing that didn't know the difference between load bearing and non-load bearing walls. Not in all cases but in some they let their authority go to their head.

[@buildingcodetips]

Great points! The career path has definitely changed thats for sure. It’s not your typical old guy who has been in the trades for 30 or 40 years. And I totally agree with some inspectors letting their authority go to their head. In my opinion it’s supposed to be about customer service and helping people.

[@diamondkutz54]

That is exactly right! @@buildingcodetips

[@jennii1227]

I’m more focused on studying the a basic code enforcement & legal aspects of code administration than the IBC & IZC for permit tech test. Would you say you don’t necessarily need to know the two latter books concretely but rather mostly know where to find the material for the codes? I’m taking the test next week!

[@buildingcodetips]

Yes, for sure! Being able to find the materials in the book is by far the number requirement in my opinion. If you are taking the test through ICC details should be available showing percentages of topics covered in the test. This should help you focus on the areas that are most covered in the test. When I took the test for the commercial building inspector, study materials included a concrete book. I never looked at that book or even took it with me for the test and still passed. Sometimes one book listed as part of the test materials will include only a small fraction of the test questions. Hope this helps a little! Good luck

[@Dankster422]

I’m 18 and do not have a High School Diploma but was offered a job as a building inspector they said they will train me but I was wondering if it possible to be certified in this without a High School Diploma

[@buildingcodetips]

Hey Ryan, Congrats on your opportunity! You can for sure get certified without having a high school diploma. With the on the job training that is being offered and some time studying the code book I am sure you will do great.

[@Samson003]

What’s the pay like? I’ve been in construction for 15 years worked up through as a carpenter became a journeyman and a foreman. Now I’m a superintendent but I’m looking to find something that’s a little less stressful and less demanding being a superintendent is not something I want to do rest of my career because of the stress with schedules and clients

[@buildingcodetips]

That's a hard question to answer. It probably depends a lot on the cost of living where you are at and however the city or county has put together their pay and benefits packages. I can say that I had to take a pay cut to get into the position but vastly out performed with both wage and benefits from when I was a superintendent in about 2 years after making the move. My main purpose for pursuing an inspector position was quality of life and the benefits. If you value the time off, low medical, pensions, retirement packages etc. than it may be worth a pay cut for a couple years. I can definitely say that my job is much less stressful than when I was a superintendent. In many areas you don't have to be certified to get an inspector job, with the requirement that you get certified within 6 months or a year. It may be worth checking your local city or county job postings for inspector positions.

[@Samson003]

@@buildingcodetips i appreciate the response! I’ve settled being ok with a pay cut but I don’t think my wife has lol. I’ll be looking into this more. Thank yoy

[@djc1013]

I am a Commercial Building Inspector in a very large jurisdiction and currently with the state of the construction economy and OT, I cleared 115k last year. Without OT, our base salary max out around 85k. That said, don’t underestimate the level of stress. As a superintendent you’re dealing with one client, as an inspector you deal with dozens. We also deal with every subcontractor a superintendent does, just ten fold. We have had multiple guys come in the last two years and leave before the end of their probation because it was more stressful than they anticipated. That said, it is a fantastic career once you get comfortable and dialed in. Watching you’re cities or counties grow is rewarding.

[@buildingcodetips]

@@djc1013 Thanks for the comment! It’s great to hear about another inspector’s experience.

[@Samson003]

@@djc1013 that would be nice if I got to oversee one client I don’t know any supers that oversee one client. I work with 20+ clients I can’t even count how many subcontractors. Trying to meet schedules wanting things they don’t want to pay for and subs not doing the work in the proposal.

[@6.2pushinP]

A buddy just gave me a call and said he can get me in and I’m thinking about it if it’s worth leaving my job going into a new work i need see videos

[@buildingcodetips]

Thats awesome! I hope it works out. If you have any questions for me feel free to reach out, I will do my best.

[@cappachino007]

Are these certs nationwide? I live in NYC

[@buildingcodetips]

ICC certifications are nationwide, however some states have specialized codes and certifications. I dont know about NYC but Florida and California have their own versions of the certifications. All taken through ICC, just choosing the right exam. All of my certifications are the standard exams.

[@RegularJoes]

Building Code of New York State, 2022 is the latest, is published by ICC. You should be able to take international code exams through ICC and then request the state equivalent from ICC. The international code exams are a little bit easier than the state exams and yes, the codes state codes differ from the International codes, not a large amount though.

[@Jacky_O]

I was interested in becoming a home inspector or building inspector and wanted to know if the schooling/certificate is the same for both? Also, do you find one to be easier to get into than the other?

[@buildingcodetips]

Hi Jacky, Yes, the schooling is different. A building inspector is typically employed by a city, county or state and you get certified through the international code council (ICC). Job security and benefits are probably better for a building inspector. A home inspector would be on demand. If the market is strong I would guess that the wages would be pretty good but the job follows the market. Not sure how to get certified for a home inspector but i do know that it is different than a building inspector. Hope that helps!!

[@Theundisputedtruth]

Which one with your experienced opinion would be more lucrative , and successful

[@buildingcodetips]

@@Theundisputedtruth I really think it comes down to the individual. Most home inspectors that I know are running under their own personal business so the sky is the limit in a booming housing market and good marketing. If you can get in with a few good realtors and have them recommend you as the home inspector that could go a long way in getting started. On the flip side if the housing market is down and the home inspector market is over saturated it could be a hard go. The building inspector position, on the other hand, is usually through a government agency. The pay may not have the highs and lows of a home inspector but its reliable, plus you get the benefits and retirement a personal business may not be able to afford. Personally, I like to do a lot of projects on the side, after work and on the weekends so having the reliable, constant position as a building inspector with all the retirement and benefits is much more lucrative to me!

[@breylinfrias8972]

Good information I would like to send you an email or ask some questions I’m working as subcontractor for the city and I’ve working as labor construction I’ll like to get started as inspector I’m pretty young and I don’t know which one will put me in the door to start my career as inspector, I know about the ICC and I’ll like to know if this is the most common online website center to get certified Thanks 👏🤞

[@ChelseaValdivia]

Where do you find independently contracted building inspectors?

[@buildingcodetips]

There is a company at least around our area called Safebuilt that provides independent plan review and inspection. I believe different jurisdictions will hire them out when the work load gets too large. Some engineering firms will also have special inspectors on staff but their work is tailored towards specific items such as welding, steel bolting, concrete testing, etc. For three most part though all buildings inspectors are going to work a the city, county or state. Wherever a permit would be purchased.

[@zeyadsabti5484]

Is there free courses online to be building inspector ?

[@buildingcodetips]

Not that I know of. I did it the old fashioned way, just studying the code books!! I did see some different options in the comments though. Someone mentioned WC3 Academy. ICC offers study materials like flash cards, study guides and may offer some courses as well. But those would have costs attached.

[@TUONGNGUYEN-rd9ud]

I'm from Vietnam, an architect, 50 years old. Next time i'll go to USA, I want becoming a construction inspector, please help me to consult some things. 1- how long to study the court becoming construction inspector. 2- in some states, high school diploma can become a construction inspector, 3- My english is limited, please give me some advice. Ihave no enough time to study long court. thanks so much!!!

[@buildingcodetips]

Hello Tuong, All you need to become a building inspector is a certification through the International Code Council (ICC). Work in the trades and a degree will help your chances of getting the job but technically if you are certified you can become an inspector for the certifications obtained. A lot of times I see architects work towards a plans examiner position. Not that you can't be a building inspector, but you might also look into becoming a plans examiner as well! visit: www.iccsafe.org/ to look over different types of trainings and certifications that can be obtained. You will probably want to pursue the commercial and residential building inspector certifications to become an inspector. Hope that helps a little!

[@MuhammadHasnain-uw6dn]

Hi im from another country Can i become a building inspector and apply for a job in whatever country im interested in ?

[@buildingcodetips]

Hi Muhammad, Each country has its own set of building codes that tailor to weather, natural disaster probability, soil types, etc. However, getting certified as a building inspector through the international code council should help your chances of getting any job you apply for. Good luck!!

[@fernie1934]

About how long does it take ?

[@buildingcodetips]

It depends on your background and the requirements for the city or county where you are applying. Many times the city or county will hire someone without any certifications under the requirement of getting certified within the first 6 months to a year. This might be hard if you don't have a lot of construction field experience and in that case it all comes down to how much time can be set aside for studying to get certified. It took me on around 3 months of studying the IBC with 5 to 10 hours of study time each week. Hope that helps!!

[@abranfernandez1287]

I’m 21 & I’m looking forward to becoming an inspector

[@buildingcodetips]

Thats great! If you ever need any thoughts or info on how and where to get started feel free to reach out. Its a great career for those that like to be outside and in the world of construction. I started when I was 31 and the youth movement in the field is definitely real so I am glad to hear that you are pursuing it.

[@jadahood8868]

Can inspectors work in HVAC companies and plumbing or engineering?

[@buildingcodetips]

Inspectors can come from all different fields such as the ones you listed. They usually work for a government agencies such a cities, counties or states. There are special inspectors that specialize in specific areas like welding, concrete testing, etc, and they usually work for a 3rd party private business that is hired by the contractor. I am sure that you could get on at a big HVAC, plumbing or engineering firm as a QC inspector if you have experience though!!

[@jadahood8868]

@@buildingcodetips Thank you for the information I'll do more research on more based on the info you gave me

[@buildingcodetips]

@@jadahood8868 If you have anymore questions feel free to reach out!

[@jadahood8868]

@@buildingcodetips Thank you will do if anything else comes to mind

[@backinthecutt]

Hello I’m a 20 year old certified b1 residential building inspector, as well as currently studying to get certified for plumbing and mechanical. I just recently got certified and am apply to city building inspecting jobs, as well as jobs similar to the field. I have been struggling and little bit to even get a interview. Any advice. I’m very eager to start my career even as intern would be wonderful(Forgot to mention I don’t have any prior experience in this field at all)

[@buildingcodetips]

Hello, Thats a great accomplishment to have already gotten your b1 at age 20. Congrats!! The plumbing and mechanical certs should help bolster your resume but I think some field experience would go a long way as well. Spending a little time framing, building decks, doing a little plumbing, anything to help your construction knowledge and learn the language would be really beneficial in my opinion. Construction is hardly ever black and white, there are always gray areas that inspectors and contractors deal with. Having a little knowledge in that, and some understanding of what the contractor is thinking may go a long way in becoming a good inspector. With your drive I know you will eventually find the career path you are looking for! Good Luck

[@backinthecutt]

@@buildingcodetips what would be your best advice on where to get that building, framing and/or plumbing experience because I agree with what you said.

[@buildingcodetips]

@@backinthecutt Hello, You might try to get on with one of your local home builders helping out the site superintendent. This will provide you the opportunity to talk with framers, plumbers and mechanical installers about their craft and start to understand the language. If your area is like mine, contractors are always looking for good help!

[@backinthecutt]

@@buildingcodetips what would be the name of the exact position that your referring to. As I’m searching in my area which is Redwood City, California, mostly I see are contractors positions

[@buildingcodetips]

@@backinthecutt Try searching for homebuilders in your area or drive into some new housing developments around where you live. Stop into the job shack or ask some of the subs working on the houses who to talk to. Each company labels their job descriptions differently but I would assume you would be looking for some type of entry level assistant superintendent position. Could even be someone who starts off kind of like a laborer, sweeping houses out before insulation, doing final touch -up before turnover to the new buyers, etc. Anything to get yourself onsite and able to speak to the subs.

[@whocares9273]

Do I need a license to be a home inspector?

[@buildingcodetips]

I believe that you do need to be licensed in some states but I am not completely sure. The home inspector world is a little different when it comes to licensing and certifications than a building inspector. Sorry that I couldn’t help more!

[@isaiahgibson3699]

What's a legit site to take Building inspector course?

[@buildingcodetips]

Hey Isaiah, I have never used it but have heard some good stuff about WC3 academy. All the studying I did was the old fashioned way with my nose in the book!! It is always good to get certified in other areas, especially ones that work together, such as getting a residential and commercial cert or working towards mechanical and plumbing certs. The more certification you have the better the resume will look. I am sure this is not the case everywhere but where I work we got a pay bump for the first 4 certifications that we had/got so there was incentive to get more than just the field we were working in. Let me know if you need anything else.

[@isaiahgibson3699]

@@buildingcodetips I appreciate ya so much man! I did what you said and downloaded the 2021 code book to study for the exam. If I have anymore questions I’ll reach out to you for sure 🙏🏽

[@jkstall3131]

Man I’m struggling teaching myself all the residential certs. Those books are thick and 2 min a question tough. Just know the book, just know the chapters, just know every area in the chapter blah blah. Easier said than done. Just frustrated.

[@buildingcodetips]

Hey JK, Sorry for the struggles. I have never used the wc3 acadamy before so I am hoping the others will reach out to you. When I was studying I used the flash cards. They went everywhere with me and helped a ton. I don't know if that would help in your situation but thought I would share. Best of luck and I hope you can get that next cert!!

[@jkstall3131]

@@buildingcodetips thank you sir. They help to a degree. I think it's possible to become certified in all the residentials but your building department better be patient with you cause without a background it's incredibly difficult teaching yourself to the point of passing.

[@chrisloizou710]

Inspectors are failed builders, who can't handle the building game. What you just said proved it and is the reason why the industry now has gone to shit. You have an inspector's license, the same as getting a builder's license with no on sit qualifications, Only what the book has told you. I have been a builder/ developer for over 35 years, with a background in carpentry, I can and do, lay bricks, form up and pour the concrete slabs for the house, driveway, and landscaping. All inspectors and builders should be the same.

[@buildingcodetips]

Thanks for the comment and congrats on 35 years in the construction industry!

[@RastaMan3000]

This is what a Old head in the industry looks like people 😂😂 keep breaking ur back with all that negativity old head 🤣