10/30/2024
The Life of a Building Inspector
After 36 years in my own construction business, I have dealt with many inspectors and my experiences were always positive. In all my projects, I only had one correction notice and that was for something the homeowner said he would handle. As a teenager, I learned from my dad when we were building houses that we should always treat the inspectors with respect and cooperation. This advice has served me well all through my career.
Now I see things from the other side. Not everyone respects or cooperates with the inspector! In fact, in my few short years in the role, I have been screamed at, called vile names, flipped off, and threatened with violence! And to make matters worse, I have been the target of malicious slander and blatant defamation of character by those who think they can reject the law and the building codes and do whatever they please! This comes from a small segment of the community who scoff at our safety codes, permits, and inspections. But most contractors and homeowners see the building codes as a protection from safety hazards and property damage. Good contractors and conscientious homeowners have obtained their permits and been respectful and cooperative with my inspections.
Many of us who work as inspectors have spent long careers in the trades we now inspect. Some, like me, were preparing to cut back on the physical aspects due to getting older and sometimes, facing medical challenges. And yet, our life-long experience and knowledge are perfectly suited to building inspection.
Finding quality inspectors is quite challenging currently. I initially took the position on a temporary basis to fill in for a retired inspector. The township could not find a replacement after extensive advertising and outreach. But after a few weeks in the role, I realized how satisfying it was to be using my experience and knowledge to make a difference in the community. I signed on for the permanent role.
A strange plot twist that I never saw coming was resistance and opposition from elected officials. Some (not all) seem to think building codes and inspectors are a form of government overreach and should be curtailed and minimized. This short-sighted and misguided perspective is a great disservice to the community and (in my opinion) a serious dereliction of their civic duty as elected officials. The laws of this state are crystal clear in the need and authority of the local Building Safety Department and its code officials. Permits and inspections, when properly administered, have saved countless lives, prevented untold injuries, and protected property values for many decades. It is my goal and priority to enforce the codes in a way that is neither overreach or under service. Inspectors must enforce the minimum requirements of the code and never more. Discretion is granted in the use of materials and methods as stated in MRBC R104.11, โAn alternative material, design, or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of the code, and that the material, method, or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in the code.โ I have used this discretion many times to allow construction methods that are not addressed by the code but meet the minimum requirements for safety and property protection. The administration and enforcement of our building codes is a valuable part of our modern society and should receive the respect this profession deserves from our elected officials as well as in the community.
Despite the challenges and conflicts, I remain resolute in performing my role as building inspector with the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and dedication.
