Certified inspectors are building code experts employed by city, county, and state government to ensure buildings and related structures are sound and safe for occupancy.
All individuals working as building inspectors in the state must hold an Oregon Inspector Certification, as well as additional code certifications.
What do inspectors do?
The inspection process generally begins with a building plan approved by a city, county, or state building department.
Inspectors spend time at the construction site inspecting general construction and/or specialized structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems. They collect information and take photographs to document how construction performs to code requirements, zoning regulations, and other specifications. They also spend time in an office using various computer technologies to review building plans and permit requests, as well as compile data and prepare inspection reports.
Building safety professionals may also find employment in the private sector for companies that contract with local government to perform inspections or provide code expertise to architects, developers, and contractors during the building design phase.
Building inspectors/code experts play a significant role in ensuring new homes and commercial buildings are constructed to code. As a result, these buildings are more prepared to survive earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters.
Learn more about the inspector certifications that are available in Oregon, including the scope of work and available pathways to obtaining each certification.
If you seek a career that enhances public safety and builds better communities, consider becoming a certified building inspector.
What is the career outlook?
- Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent
- Median pay (2015): $57,340 per year, $27.57 per hour
- Number of jobs in U.S. (2014): 101,200
- Employment change, 2014-2024: +8,100 new jobs
- Job outlook, 2014-2024: 8 percent projected growth
Information source: U.S. Department of Labor/Bureau of Labor Statistics
How do I become an inspector?
Visit our certification pathways webpage to select a specific certification (and view the possible pathways to obtain that certification).