Being a construction inspector simply means you are responsible for ensuring the safety of occupants, users and/or workers in a private or public structure. In addition to ensuring that lives and assets are safe, you will also help to ensure compliance with various regulations, reduce the chances of litigation, and prevent costly delays.

Here’s what you want to know about becoming a building inspector.

First Things First: What Do You Need to Become an Inspector?

Every building inspector must complete specialised education, acquire years of experience, and obtain certifications that permit them to perform specific duties. Here are the steps you should follow to become an established building inspector:

1. Get the Required Education

One of the most important things you have to do to become a building inspector is to get a relevant education. In most cases, a high school diploma or an equivalent will be enough when starting, but it’s highly recommended to get an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, or even a professional certification.

You can choose from a fair selection of industry programs that combine theoretical lessons with hands-on training. Such programs are typically available in four-year colleges, vocational schools, community colleges, and accredited online institutes. Some of the top disciplines to consider are:

• Building inspection technology
• Construction technology
• Structural and construction inspection
• Building code enforcement
• Mechanical inspection
• Building safety and code administration
• And more

It’s generally also a good idea to have technical training as an electrician or plumber. Better still, an educational background in architecture and engineering will prove beneficial.

2. Earn Your Professional Certification

You will typically require a professional certification and will have to keep renewing your licence frequently to retain your position as a building inspector. Such requirements vary from one city or state to the other, so be sure to check with your state’s licensing board. As you explore various guides on how to become a building inspector, one element will come up consistently: licensing and/or continuing education.

You will need this education to excel in your career since most employers want to work with inspectors who keep updating themselves on current industry knowledge, requirements, regulations, and other developments. Make sure to get your certification education from a recognised professional education provider like RocketCert for the best results.

3. Obtain the Necessary Work Experience and Training

Like with most other industries, you need experience to succeed in the construction industry. Some of the top fields that offer the best experience in this sector are architecture, engineering, plumbing, and the electrical field. If you don’t have much experience, you can join an apprenticeship program with experienced building inspectors. You will learn a lot from following your mentors on their inspection rounds.

Some of the areas you want to focus on are inspection techniques, communicating effectively, checking building codes and ordinances, and creating detailed reports. What’s more, an apprenticeship usually offers the perfect chance to build a strong network of contacts in the construction and real estate industry. This will come in pretty handy when you start working.

What Else Should You Know Before Making the Plunge?

There are a couple of other things you must have in mind before starting your journey in building inspection. Some of these include:

• Working Hours

A majority of building inspectors work 40 hours a week. Building inspection is typically a full-time job, which means you will be working during regular business hours. However, you can also choose to work overtime during weekends or in the evening.

In most cases, it’s your workload and weather conditions that will determine your working hours. Understanding how long or when you will work is important since this will impact other aspects of your life.

• Career and Salary Outlook

As a construction and/or building inspector, you should expect to earn about $62,860 annually. Of course, this will change from one geographic location and employer to the next. In some places, such as Alaska and California, you should expect to earn more than $87,000. Other regions known for higher salaries in this field are the District of Columbia and Washington.

It’s usually advisable to do your research so you have an idea of how much you will be making, as this will help you plan your life better.

• Work Environment

You will more than likely work for construction companies, government departments, construction contractors, real estate businesses, homeowners, and architectural firms. You will often have to consult with clients and builders, either in person or by phone and email.

When working at construction sites, you will, like everyone else, be required to wear protective gear and use different tools to facilitate your work. Most of your work will revolve around reviewing blueprints and writing reports in an office setting.

Succeed In Your Building Inspection Career With RocketCert

You only need the relevant education, certification, experience, and solid network to start your journey as a building inspector in most locations in the United States. The best part about becoming a building inspector is that you can work as a self-employed professional and thus enjoy a flexible and fulfilling career.

However, the first and most important step is getting the right education, and this is where RocketCert comes in. With expertly written and fully narrated courses to make your studying easier, you have what you need to fast-track your journey to becoming a fully licensed building inspector.

Veeramachineni Lalitha

I am Finance Content Writer. I write Personal Finance, banking, investment, and insurance related content for top clients including Kotak Mahindra Bank, Edelweiss, ICICI BANK and IDFC FIRST Bank. My experience details : Linkedin