Building Inspector

Building Inspector

The purpose of this classification is to perform inspections of residential / commercial buildings and related systems to ensure compliance with applicable building codes and to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Interprets, applies, and enforces the provisions of standard building codes, electrical codes, plumbing codes, mechanical codes, fire prevention codes, life / safety codes, energy codes, accessibility codes, and other applicable federal, state and local codes, laws, rules, regulations, specifications, standards, policies, and procedures; researches code-related issues in code books as needed; initiates any actions necessary to correct deviations or violations.

Plans daily inspection schedules and travel routes to achieve maximum efficiency and ensure completion of scheduled inspections; drives to construction / property sites to conduct inspections and related work activities.

Reviews building plans, site plans, plan revisions, specifications, previous inspection records, business licenses, alcohol licenses or other documents in association with inspection activities.

Conducts site inspections of residential / commercial buildings and industrial properties (including construction work, remodeling work, building systems, and premises) for compliance with applicable codes, specifications, and approved construction plans; inspects construction alteration, demolition, use, and occupancy of buildings and premises to verify structural strength, stability, sanitation, adequate lighting, ventilation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards; inspects mechanical, plumbing, gas, electrical, roofing, fire alarm, and related building systems; inspects foundations, slabs, footing, and framing; inspects swimming pools; inspects mobile homes; inspects construction methods and materials; verifies contractor licensure and proper permitting of construction work; inspects existing buildings for improper use.

Coordinates inspection activities with other inspectors, other departments, plan reviewers, property owners, contractors, utility companies, or other individuals; communicates with other departments to report violations associated with their departments.

Provides information and technical assistance concerning inspection activities, code requirements, code compliance, code interpretation, and related issues; discusses problem areas with property owners, developers, contractors, engineers, and architects; discusses solutions to problems; responds to questions or complaints concerning code violations; provides information and technical expertise to other staff members.

Identifies code violations, deficiencies, hazardous conditions, structural failures, or improper uses; explains violations, recommends corrective actions, and advises of changes required for code compliance; issues warning notices, violation notices, or stop work orders as appropriate; reports failed inspections, violations, and deviations from codes / plans to supervisor, other inspectors, contractors, business owners or other individuals as appropriate.

Monitors status of failed inspections; conducts follow-up inspections to verify correction of deficiencies.

Prepares and maintains accurate records of inspection activities; enters inspection results into computer.

Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, logs, inspection / re-inspection requests, route sheets, inspection reports, Certificates of Occupancy, Certificates of Correction, warning notices, violation notices, stop work orders, drawings, vehicle maintenance records, or other documents.

Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, building plans, site plans, engineering drawings, specifications, architectural drawings, plan revisions, blueprints, diagrams, photographs, engineer's letters, flow charts, industry reports, product information, trade journals, technical reports / articles, street maps, codes, commentaries, ordinances, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, manuals, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate.

Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections; utilizes word processing, database, e-mail, Internet, or other computer programs.

Operates a variety of equipment and tools associated with work activities, which may include a motor vehicle, calculator, general office equipment, camera, cellular telephone, voltmeter, electric circuit testing instruments, compaction probe rod, measuring devices, level, hand tools, or ladders.

Follows safety procedures, utilizes safety equipment, and monitors work environment to ensure safety of employees and other individuals.

Communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, County officials, inspectors, plan reviewers, property owners, contractors, architects, engineers, utility companies, manufacturers, vendors / suppliers, listing agencies, local / state / federal agencies, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.

Attends various meetings as needed.

Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and standards; reviews new codes and changes to existing codes; maintains an awareness of new methods, materials, trends and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; maintains professional affiliations; attends seminars, workshops, and training sessions as appropriate.

This classification is designated as a safety sensitive position which is subject to random drug and alcohol testing and any other drug testing methods as stated in policies adopted by Forsyth County concerning drug and alcohol.

Performs general / clerical tasks, which may include answering telephone calls, sending / receiving faxes, making copies, filing documentation, or processing incoming / outgoing mail.

Provides assistance to other employees or departments as needed.

Performs other related duties as required.

High school diploma or GED; supplemented by vocational / technical training in general building construction, construction trades, and a variety of building inspection specialties; supplemented by three (3) years previous experience and / or training that includes general building construction, construction trades, code enforcement / interpretation, and a variety of building inspection specialties; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. When assigned to Building Inspections Division : Must obtain ICC Residential Combination Inspector (R5) certification within 24 months of hire. When assigned to Business License Division : Must obtain ICC Commercial Building Inspector (B2) certification within 6 months of hire. Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license.