Overview
Construction inspectors inspect the construction and maintenance of new and existing buildings, bridges, highways and industrial construction to ensure that specifications and building codes are observed and monitor work site safety. They are employed by federal, provincial and municipal governments, construction companies, architectural and civil engineering consulting firms or they may be self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Examine plans, drawings, and site layouts for new buildings, building renovations and other proposed structures
Inspect construction of buildings, bridges, dams, highways and other types of building and engineering construction for conformance to drawings, specifications, building codes or other applicable ordinances
Inspect and test electrical or plumbing installations in buildings to ensure compliance with municipal, provincial and federal regulations
Inspect steel framework, concrete forms, reinforcing steel mesh and rods, concrete or pre-stressed concrete to ensure quality standards and to verify conformance to specifications and building codes
Inspect construction of sewer systems and pipelines
Inspect construction sites to ensure that safe working conditions are maintained
Inspect existing buildings to identify and report on structural defects, fire hazards and other threats to safety
Inspect new or resale homes on behalf of clients and assess and provide reports on the physical condition of property
Assess the energy performance and potential energy savings of buildings
Plan, design, develop, implement, and evaluate workplace activities to ensure that workers comply with company policies and government safety regulations.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$57,346
$85,291
$114,692
Usual Hours Worked Weekly: 42.3
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
613expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is required.
A college diploma in construction, civil engineering or architectural technology plus several years of related work experience or several years of experience as a qualified tradesperson in a construction trade, such as plumbing, carpentry or electrical trade are usually required.
Provincial certification in a skilled trade or as an engineering technologist is usually required.
Additional information
Progression to construction management positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certifications to practice as Construction inspectors in B.C.
- Home inspector license
- Natural Resources Canada Energy Advisor Designation
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Construction inspectors in B.C.
- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification - Construction Inspectors
- National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO®) Designation
- ASTTBC Fire Protection Certification Program Registration
Home inspector license
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a home inspector in B.C., you need the correct certification for the type of work you will be performing. Eligibility is achieved by passing the requisite exam through the Home Inspector Licensing Regulation.
Natural Resources Canada Energy Advisor Designation
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as an energy advisor in B.C., you must be registered with Natural Resources Canada. Eligibility is achieved by passing two qualification exams, the Foundation Level Exam and the Energy Advisor (House) Exam and be affiliated with an NRCan-licensed service organization.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification - Construction Inspectors
To work as a construction inspector in B.C., you may choose to earn the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Certification. Eligibility is achieved through signing up with the Canada Green Building Council.
National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO®) Designation
To work as a Construction Instructor in B.C., you may need to be registered with the BC Construction Safety Alliance. Eligibility is achieved by possessing a minimum of three years of construction field experience and conducting a Certificate of Recognition (COR®) health and safety student audit of one's company.
ASTTBC Fire Protection Certification Program Registration
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a Fire Protection Technician in B.C., you must be registered with the ASTTBC Fire Protection Certification Program. Eligibility is achieved by review and validation of an applicant’s education, training, and work experience as well as requiring completion of a professional practice and ethics examination.
Work Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
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