The
following is an exact copy of currently unavailable resources. The original
source: http://data.bls.gov/cgi-bin/print.pl/oco/ocos004.htm
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational
Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition
Construction
and Building Inspectors
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Nature of the Work
¥
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement
¥
Employment
¥
Job Outlook
¥
Projections
¥
Earnings
¥
Wages
¥
Related Occupations
¥ Sources of Additional Information
Significant Points
Nature
of the Work
Construction and building inspectors examine
buildings, highways and streets, sewer and water systems, dams, bridges, and
other structures. They ensure that their construction, alteration, or repair
complies with building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.
Building codes and standards are the primary means by which building
construction is regulated in the United States for the health and safety of the
general public. National model building and construction
codes are published by the International Code Council (ICC), although
many localities have additional ordinances and codes that modify or add to the
National model codes. To monitor compliance with regulations, inspectors make
an initial inspection during the first phase of construction and follow up with
further inspections throughout the construction project. However, no inspection
is ever exactly the same. In areas where certain types of severe weather or
natural disasters—such as earthquakes or hurricanes—are more
common, inspectors monitor compliance with additional safety regulations
designed to protect structures and occupants during those events.
There are many types of
inspectors. Building inspectors inspect the structural quality
and general safety of buildings. Some specialize in for example, structural
steel or reinforced-concrete structures. Before
construction begins, plan examiners determine whether the
plans for the building or other structure comply with building codes and whether
they are suited to the engineering and environmental demands of the building
site. To inspect the condition of the soil and the positioning and depth of the
footings, inspectors visit the worksite before the foundation is poured. Later,
they return to the site to inspect the foundation after it has been completed.
The size and type of structure, as well as the rate at which it proceeds toward
completion, determine the number of other site visits they must make. Upon
completion of the project, they make a final, comprehensive inspection.
In addition to structural
characteristics, a primary concern of building inspectors is fire safety. They
inspect structuresÕ fire sprinklers, alarms, smoke
control systems, and fire exits. Inspectors assess the type of construction,
the buildingÕs contents, adequacy of fire protection equipment, and any risks
posed by adjoining buildings. (For additional information on fire
inspectors, see the statement on fire inspectors and investigators,
elsewhere in the Handbook.)
Electrical inspectors examine the installation of electrical systems and equipment
to ensure that they function properly and comply with electrical codes and
standards. They visit worksites to inspect new and existing sound and security
systems, wiring, lighting, motors, and generating equipment. They also inspect
the installation of the electrical wiring for heating and air-conditioning
systems, appliances, and other components.
Elevator inspectors examine lifting and conveying devices such as elevators, escalators,
moving sidewalks, lifts and hoists, inclined railways, ski lifts, and amusement
rides.
Home inspectors conduct inspections of newly built or previously owned
homes, condominiums, town homes, manufactured homes, apartments, and commercial
buildings. Home inspection has become a standard practice in the
home-purchasing process. Home inspectors are most often hired by prospective home buyers to inspect and report on the condition of a
homeÕs systems, components, and structure. Although they look for and report
violations of building codes, they do not have the power to enforce compliance
with the codes. Typically, they are hired either immediately prior to a
purchase offer on a home or as a contingency to a sales contract. In addition
to examining structural quality, home inspectors inspect all home systems and
features, including roofing as well as the exterior, attached garage or
carport, foundation, interior, plumbing, and electrical, heating, and cooling
systems. Some home inspections are done for homeowners who want an evaluation
of their homeÕs condition, for example, prior to putting the home on the market
or as a way to diagnose problems.
Mechanical inspectors examine the installation of heating, ventilation, air
conditioning, and refrigeration systems and equipment to insure they are
installed and function properly. This may include the inspection of commercial
kitchen equipment, gas-fired appliances, and boilers.
Plumbing inspectors examine the installation of piping systems to insure the safety
and health of the drinking water system, chemical process piping for industrial
uses, and the sanitary disposal of waste. On most construction sites this will
involve at least three inspections, including the piping layout, venting,
backflow protection, and setting of fixtures.
Public works
inspectors ensure that
Federal, State, and local government water and sewer system, highway, street,
bridge, and dam construction conforms to detailed contract specifications. They
inspect excavation and fill operations, the placement of forms for concrete,
concrete mixing and pouring, asphalt paving, and grading operations. They
record the work and materials used so that contract payments can be calculated.
Public works inspectors may specialize in highways, structural steel,
reinforced concrete, or ditches. Others specialize in dredging operations
required for bridges and dams or for harbors.
The owner of a building or
structure under construction employs specification inspectors to
ensure that work is done according to design specifications. Specification
inspectors represent the ownerÕs interests, not those of the general public.
Insurance companies and financial institutions also may use their services.
Details concerning
construction projects, building and occupancy permits, and other documentation
generally are stored on computers so that they can easily be retrieved and
updated. For example, inspectors may use laptop computers to record their
findings while inspecting a site. Most inspectors use computers to help them
monitor the status of construction inspection activities and keep track of
permits issued, and some can access all construction and building codes from
their computers on the job site, decreasing the need for paper binders.
However, many inspectors continue to use a paper checklist to detail their
findings.
Although inspections are
primarily visual, inspectors may use tape measures, survey instruments,
metering devices, and equipment such as concrete strength measurers. They keep
a log of their work, take photographs, and file reports. Many inspectors also
use laptops or other portable electronic devices onsite to facilitate the
accuracy of their written reports, as well as e-mail and fax machines to send
out the results. If necessary, they act on their findings. For example,
government and construction inspectors notify the construction contractor,
superintendent, or supervisor when they discover a violation of a code or
ordinance or something that does not comply with the contract specifications or
approved plans. If the problem is not corrected within a reasonable or
otherwise specified period, government inspectors have authority to issue a
Òstop-workÓ order.
Many inspectors also
investigate construction or alterations being done without proper permits.
Inspectors who are employees of municipalities enforce laws pertaining to the
proper design, construction, and use of buildings. They direct violators of
permit laws to obtain permits and to submit to inspection.
Work environment. Construction
and building inspectors usually work alone. However, several may be assigned to
large, complex projects, particularly because inspectors tend to specialize in
different areas of construction. Although they spend considerable time
inspecting construction worksites, inspectors also spend time in a field office
reviewing blueprints, answering letters or telephone calls, writing reports,
and scheduling inspections.
Many construction sites are
dirty and may be cluttered with tools, materials, or debris. Inspectors may
have to climb ladders or many flights of stairs or crawl around in tight
spaces. Although their work generally is not considered hazardous, inspectors,
like other construction workers, wear hardhats and adhere to other safety
requirements while at a construction site.
Inspectors normally work
regular hours. However, they may work additional hours during periods when a
lot of construction is taking place. Also, if an accident occurs at a
construction site, inspectors must respond immediately and may work additional
hours to complete their report. Non-government inspectors—especially
those who are self-employed—may have a varied work schedule, at times
working evenings and weekends.
Although inspections are primarily visual, inspectors may use tape measures,
survey instruments, and metering devices.
Training,
Other Qualifications, and Advancement
Although requirements vary considerably, construction and building inspectors
should have a thorough knowledge of construction materials and practices. In
some States, construction and building inspectors are required to obtain a
special license or certification, so it is important to check with the
appropriate State agency.
Education
and training. Most
employers require at least a high school diploma or the equivalent, even for
workers with considerable experience. More often, employers look for persons
who have studied engineering or architecture or who have a degree from a
community or junior college with courses in building inspection, home
inspection, construction technology, drafting, and mathematics. Many community
colleges offer certificate or associate degree programs in building inspection
technology. Courses in blueprint reading, algebra, geometry, and English also
are useful. A growing number of construction and building inspectors are
entering the occupation with a college degree, which often can substitute for
previous experience.
The level of training
requirements varies by type of inspector and State. 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. Supervised onsite inspections also may be a part of the
training. Other requirements can include various courses and assigned reading.
Some courses and instructional material are available online as well as through
formal venues.
Licensure
and certification. Many
States and local jurisdictions require some type of license or certification
for employment as a construction and building inspector. Requirements may vary
by State or local municipality. Typical requirements for licensure or
certification include previous experience, a minimum educational attainment
level, such as a high school diploma, and passing a State-approved examination.
Some States have individual licensing programs for inspectors, while others may
require certification by such associations as the International Code Council,
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, and National
Fire Protection Association.
Similarly, some States
require home inspectors to obtain a State-issued license or certification.
Currently, 34 States have regulations affecting home inspectors. Requirements
for a license or certification vary by State, but may include obtaining a
minimum level of education, having a set amount of experience with inspections,
purchasing liability insurance of a certain amount, and the passing of an
examination. Renewal is usually every few years and annual continuing education
is almost always required.
Other
qualifications. Because inspectors must possess the right mix of technical
knowledge, experience, and education, employers prefer applicants who have both
formal training and experience. For example, many inspectors previously worked
as carpenters, electricians, or plumbers. Home inspectors combine knowledge of
multiple specialties, so many of them come into the
occupation having a combination of certifications and previous experience in
various construction trades.
Construction and building
inspectors must be in good physical condition in order to walk and climb about
construction and building sites. They also must have a driverÕs license so that
they can get to scheduled appointments.
Advancement. Being a
member of a nationally recognized inspection association enhances employment
opportunities and may be required by some employers. Even if it is not
required, certification can enhance an inspectorÕs opportunities for employment
and advancement to more responsible positions. To become certified, inspectors
with substantial experience and education must pass examinations on topics
including code requirements, construction techniques and materials, standards
of practice, and codes of ethics. The International Code Council offers
multiple voluntary certifications, as do many other professional associations.
Many categories of certification are awarded for inspectors and plan examiners
in a variety of specialties, including the Certified Building Official (CBO)
certification, for code compliance, and the Residential Building Inspector
(RBI) certification, for home inspectors. In a few cases, there are no
education or experience prerequisites, and certification consists of passing an
examination in a designated field either at a regional location or online. In
addition, Federal, State, and many local governments may require inspectors to
pass a civil service exam.
Because they advise
builders and the general public on building codes, construction practices, and
technical developments, construction and building inspectors must keep abreast
of changes in these areas. Continuing education is required by many States and
certifying organizations. Numerous employers provide formal training to broaden
inspectorsÕ knowledge of construction materials, practices, and techniques.
Inspectors who work for agencies or firms that do not conduct their own
training programs can expand their knowledge and upgrade their skills by
attending State-sponsored training programs, by taking college or
correspondence courses, or by attending seminars and conferences sponsored by
various related organizations, including professional organizations. An
engineering or architectural degree often is required for advancement to
supervisory positions.
Employment
Construction and building inspectors held about 106,400 jobs in 2008. Local
governments—primarily municipal or county building
departments—employed 44 percent. Employment of local government
inspectors is concentrated in cities and in suburban areas undergoing rapid
growth. Local governments in larger jurisdictions may employ large inspection
staffs, including many plan examiners or inspectors who specialize in
structural steel, reinforced concrete, and boiler, electrical, and elevator
inspection. In smaller jurisdictions, only one or a few inspectors with
generalist skills in multiple areas may be on staff.
Another 27 percent of
construction and building inspectors worked for architectural and engineering
services firms, conducting inspections for a fee or on a contract basis. Many
of these were home inspectors working on behalf of potential real estate
purchasers. Most of the remaining inspectors were employed in other
service-providing industries or by State governments. About 8 percent of
construction and building inspectors were self-employed; many of these were
home inspectors.
Job
Outlook
Inspectors should experience faster than average employment growth.
Opportunities should be best for those with construction-related work
experience; training in engineering, architecture, construction technology, or
related fields; or certification as a construction inspector.
Employment
change. Employment of construction and building inspectors is expected to
grow 17 percent over the 2008-2018 decade, faster than the average for all
occupations. Concern for public safety and a desire for improvement in the
quality of construction should continue to stimulate demand for construction
and building inspectors in government as well as in firms specializing in
architectural, engineering, and related services. As the result of new
technology such as building information modeling (BIM), the availability of a
richer set of buildings data in a more timely and transparent manner will make
it easier to conduct plan reviews. This will lead to more time and resources
spent on inspections. In addition, the growing focus on natural and manmade
disasters is increasing the level of interest in and need for qualified
inspectors. Issues such as green and sustainable design are new areas of focus
that will also drive the demand for construction and building inspectors.
The routine practice of
obtaining home inspections is a relatively recent development, causing
employment of home inspectors to increase rapidly. Although employment of home
inspectors is expected to continue to increase, the attention given to this
specialty, combined with the desire of some construction workers to move into
less strenuous and potentially higher paying work, may result in reduced growth
of home inspectors in some areas. In addition, increasing State regulations are
starting to limit entry into the specialty only to those who have a given level
of previous experience and who are certified.
Job prospects. Those
with construction-related work experience; training in engineering, architecture,
construction technology, or related fields; or certification as a construction
inspector will have the best prospects. Inspectors are involved in all phases
of construction, including maintenance and repair work, and are therefore less
likely than many construction workers to lose their jobs when new construction
slows during recessions. Those who are self-employed, such as home inspectors,
are more likely to be affected by economic downturns or fluctuations in the
real estate market. However, those with a thorough knowledge of construction
practices and skills in areas such as reading and evaluating blueprints and
plans will be better off. In addition to openings stemming from the expected
employment growth, some job openings will arise from the need to replace
inspectors who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force.
Projections
Data
|
Occupational Title |
SOC Code |
Employment, 2008 |
Projected |
Change, |
|
|
Number |
Percent |
||||
|
Construction and building inspectors |
47-4011 |
106,400 |
124,200 |
17,900 |
17 |
Earnings
Median annual wages of wage and salary construction and building inspectors
were $50,180 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $39,070 and
$63,360. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,270, and the highest 10
percent earned more than $78,070. Median annual wages in the industries
employing the largest numbers of construction and building inspectors were:
|
Federal Executive Branch |
$62,120 |
|
Management, scientific, and technical
consulting services |
58,520 |
|
Local government |
50,330 |
|
Architectural, engineering, and
related services |
49,320 |
|
State government |
45,700 |
Building inspectors, including plan examiners, generally earn the highest
salaries. Salaries in large metropolitan areas are substantially higher than
those in small jurisdictions.
Benefits vary by place of
employment. Those working for the government and private companies typically
receive standard benefits, including health and medical insurance, a retirement
plan, and paid annual leave. Those who are self-employed may have to provide
their own benefits.
About 25 percent of all
construction and building inspectors belonged to a union or were covered by a
union contract in 2008.
For the latest wage information:
|
The above wage data are from
the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey
program, unless otherwise noted. For the latest National, State, and local
earnings data, visit the following pages: |
Related
Occupations
Because construction and building inspectors are familiar with construction
principles, the most closely related occupations are construction occupations,
especially:
Plumbers, pipelayers,
pipefitters, and steamfitters
Construction and building
inspectors also combine knowledge of construction principles and law with an
ability to coordinate data, diagnose problems, and communicate with people.
Workers in other occupations using a similar combination of skills include:
Architects, except landscape and
naval
Appraisers and assessors of real
estate
Surveyors, cartographers, photogrammetrists, and surveying and mapping technicians
Sources
of Additional Information
Disclaimer:
|
Links to non-BLS Internet sites are
provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. |
Information about building
codes, certification, and a career as a construction
or building inspector is available from:
For more information about
construction inspectors, contact:
For more information about
electrical inspectors, contact:
For more information about
elevator inspectors, contact:
For more information about
education and training for mechanical and plumbing inspectors, contact:
For information about
becoming a home inspector, contact any of the following organizations:
For information about a
career as a State or local government construction or building inspector,
contact your State or local employment service.
O*NET-SOC
Code Coverage
Get more information from
O*NET—the Occupational Information Network:
|
O*NET provides comprehensive
information on key characteristics of workers and occupations. For information
on a specific occupation, select the appropriate link below. For more
information on O*NET, visit their homepage. |
Suggested citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational
Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition,
Construction and Building Inspectors, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos004.htm
(visited November 10, 2011).
Last Modified Date: December 17, 2009