Construction sites are inspected by site inspectors to make sure the work complies with local code requirements and construction standards.
To apply as a site inspector, most businesses simply require a high school diploma while some may also demand courses or a degree in architecture or engineering.
This article provides all available information on site inspectors including job duties, requirements, and outlook.
About Site Inspector
Site inspectors are in charge of making sure that projects are finished following regional, national, and state requirements.
Site inspectors check on a project’s advancement at regular intervals to make sure it is being constructed properly and in conformity with all relevant laws and regulations.
Site inspectors may sometimes be requested to offer suggestions or counsel on how to enhance the quality or safety of a project.
This advice includes tools to use, materials to use, and cost-cutting measures.
Job Duties Of Site Inspectors
Site inspectors go over new construction and remodeling projects to make sure they adhere to specifications, codes, and laws and are structurally sound.
Examining blueprints, assessing the soil at building sites, tracking the progress of the project, checking electrical and mechanical systems, using survey tools to confirm finished work, taking photos, and keeping a diary are some general activities.
Other duties of a site inspector include:
- Checking construction sites for compliance with rules and codes when the project is being built
- Keeping a contact list for the project manager and other important participants in the project
- Verifying that necessary work is being performed following approved plans and specifications by reviewing work orders and schedules
- Ensuring that all building materials adhere to applicable industry norms and laws
- Inspecting structures being built to make sure they adhere to building standards and regulations
- Preparing reports that include inspection findings, any issues with building methods or materials used, and findings from inspections
- Conducting interviews with contractors to ascertain whether they are competent to carry out the required work on a project
- Checking job sites for dangers such as structural flaws, electrical problems, and fire safety issues
- Testing to ascertain the robustness of materials used in construction projects
Requirements To Become A Site Inspector
Construction experience and a high school certificate or GED are both required for you to become a site inspector.
You’ll also need to be aware of both local laws and regulations as well as International Code Council (ICC) standards.
These requirements below are required before you become a site inspector:
Education
To be considered for employment, you must have high school graduation, however, many employers prioritize applicants with college-level experience in architecture, engineering, building inspection, or construction technology.
A two-year associate degree in construction technology or construction management is the most popular academic path chosen by site inspectors.
These courses such as drafting, mathematics, and construction technology instruct students on safety, project management, estimating, and building code compliance.
Training & Experience
Some aspirants to become site inspectors could also enroll in a certification or degree program as off-the-job training.
You’ll learn courses in fire safety, blueprint reading, mechanical codes, electrical inspection, and structural assessment as a student of building inspection technology.
You might also go on field trips to inspect building sites and the existing position of many prospective building inspectors will serve as your on-the-job training ground.
Site inspectors benefit from this training because they learn the requirements of the business and the sector.
They will also gain knowledge of the particular software and tools they will require.
Certifications & Licenses
Site inspectors can obtain certifications to improve their practical understanding of their duties, assess their skills, and develop their careers through the International Code Council.
Site inspectors must also hold a license or certification from a professional organization, such as the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, the National Fire Protection Association, or ICC, to be able to work in many states and local municipalities.
Typically, obtaining certification or licensure necessitates a combination of formal education, demonstrable work experience, and passing an exam.
You must pass an exam that covers a variety of building codes, features, and procedures to earn each certification.
To maintain your certification, you’ll also need to stay current on changes to construction codes and complete continuing education requirements.
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Outlook And Salary Of Site Inspectors
From 2019 to 2029, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that the employment of construction and building inspectors would grow on average.
In 2019, about 120,800 professionals were working, but by 2029, there should be about 124,600.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2020, those in the 90th percentile or higher earned $101,170 or more annually, while those in the bottom 10th percentile made $37,850 or less.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, major metropolitan areas like New York, Houston, and Washington have more site inspectors working there.
California, Florida, and Texas are the states with the highest employment of site inspectors, especially those who are experts in specific construction fields, such as plumbing or electrical systems.
Site Inspector Skills
The following skills are needed before becoming a site inspector:
1.Technical Skills
Your technical skills are beneficial and enable you to carry out the responsibilities of your position.
Technical skill examples include an understanding of building codes, understanding of construction techniques and materials, and understanding of construction safety.
2. Communication Skills
Site inspectors communicate with others by using their communication abilities.
They explain the significance of their work, present the findings of their inspections, and respond to inquiries from clients and other experts using their communication skills.
You can work with others to solve difficulties when you have strong communication abilities.
3. Analytical Skills
The capacity to dissect data and pinpoint its most crucial components is known as analytical skill.
It’s crucial to know what the inspection’s most crucial components are because an inspection evaluates how well a structure complies with standards.
This can assist you in figuring out whether a structure is safe and whether it satisfies the project’s criteria.
4. Problem-solving Skills
Site inspectors must also possess problem-solving abilities which will help them resolve problems that come up during the inspection procedure.
A site inspector can use their problem-solving abilities to find a solution if a contractor doesn’t have the required documents for a job.
5. Leadership Skills
Site inspectors frequently collaborate with other experts, including contractors, architects, and engineers.
With the right leadership abilities, you can take charge of a project and make sure that everyone involved completes their tasks on time and following the government’s criteria.
Leadership abilities can also be used to inspire your team to put in extra effort and finish their assignments.
Site Inspector Work Environment
Most site inspectors are full-time employees, while some may put in more than 40 hours a week.
To attend meetings, visit sites, or meet with clients, they might also work on weekends and in the evenings.
They might even have to put in extra time to finish reports or fulfill deadlines.
Self-employed site inspectors can choose their hours, but they still need to put in the time needed to finish their assignments.
Site inspectors could also operate in any weather and at any hour of the day or night. They might even be required to work in risky environments such as heavy machinery or on scaffolds.
Site Inspector Work Trends
To keep their knowledge current and maintain a competitive edge at work, site inspectors will need to be informed of these trends:
1.The Use Of Technology In Construction
Technology is being used more and more in the construction sector, and this is having a big impact on how projects are managed.
You will need to be knowledgeable about the most recent technology and how it may be applied to enhance project management as building inspectors.
For instance, to track resources, coordinate schedules, and communicate with team members, the software is used.
To learn more about construction rules and regulations, you will also need to be able to use the internet.
This will enable you to keep ahead of the most recent developments and guarantee that your projects are compliant with all relevant rules and regulations.
2. More Focus on Quality Control
Numerous factors are causing the construction sector to place more emphasis on quality control, some are:
- A need for better structures
- Increased interest in sustainability
- The increased rivalry between contractors
Site inspectors with the knowledge to make sure that projects are constructed following specifications are in more demand as a result of this trend.
3. Construction Projects Will Become More Complex
The position of the site inspector will be more crucial as construction projects get more complicated.
Site inspectors are in charge of making sure that plans are followed and that all safety precautions are implemented when building a project.
They need to be knowledgeable about the most recent building codes and standards to do this. They must be able to read and comprehend building drawings.
Related Alternative Careers Of Site Inspectors
Carpenters, electricians, and plumbers are among the professions that also call either a high school diploma or some college experience.
Carpenters can have a variety of specialties and construct, install, and repair frameworks and structures.
In the home, industrial, or commercial settings, electricians are in charge of installing, maintaining, and fixing electrical systems.
While plumbers fix plumbing issues and fix plumbing fittings in addition to installing and repairing pipes in various locations.
FAQ
How do you become a certified building inspector in Florida?
A home inspector must complete 120 hours of state-approved training, pass a state exam, and submit an application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
What is the main purpose of a site inspection?
Before work begins, this examination will reveal any hidden risks. Before the job is supposed to begin, any hazards that are discovered should be remedied. You must inspect the location immediately following an environmental calamity.
What is meant by inspector?
An inspector is someone who works for a government organization and whose responsibility is to determine if people are adhering to rules and regulations.
What are the cons of being a home inspector?
Home inspection industry standards vary greatly from region to region, and laws are not uniformly applied. This can be difficult because it’s crucial to be vigilant about staying current with regulations, policy changes, and inspection needs.
How much do Florida home inspectors make?
In Florida, a house inspector makes an average of $88,980 a year. Of course, you won’t remain self-employed for very long if the average is your goal.
How much does a home inspection cost?
A single-family home inspection will typically cost between $300 and $500, but the current national average is $337. However, this number can change based on a variety of variables, such as geography.
Is inspection a skill?
Inspectors assess a product or service’s quality using their inspection skills. They check goods for flaws and make sure they adhere to industry requirements. To ensure they are safe and compliant with standards, inspectors also inspect buildings, cars, and other structures.
What is quality control inspector?
Nearly all manufactured goods are inspected by quality control inspectors to make sure they adhere to predetermined criteria. They are also known as testers, sorters, samplers, and weighers.
What are the 5 responsibilities of quality control?
Conduct Product Tests and Assessments.
Identify Product Defects.
Record and Report Issues.
Support Process Improvements.
Make Necessary Repairs.
Why is site visit important in construction?
You can better grasp how civil engineering theory is applied to practice by visiting a real-world construction site or design office. A site visit will typically include a safety briefing, a presentation from the site team, and a tour of the project.
Conclusion
While ensuring structural integrity in new construction and restoration projects, site inspectors enforce construction standards and code restrictions.
Some firms might favor applicants who have a degree in architecture or engineering, but high school graduates with prior work experience are also frequently employed in this area.
A government license or professional certification may also be needed for work and can be obtained by passing an exam.
