A private building inspection can save time and money for construction projects by conducting visual inspections at critical stages, such as when the foundation is laid or before drywall is installed. This allows the builder to correct any problems before they become costly repairs. This process also helps reduce structural failures and improves quality in the construction of new buildings.
Belcher also noted that many small cities farm out the entire plan review and inspection process because they don’t have the staff to do it in-house.
Cost-effectiveness
However, a private inspector’s services may be more expensive than those of a municipal employee. This is due to the costs associated with securing and training a private inspector, as well as the increased risk involved in accessing taller, more complex structures.
In addition, a private inspector is likely to have more specialized knowledge of the building code and its application. This is important because a misinterpretation of the code can result in a structure that fails to comply with local ordinances. This can cost the builder, municipality, and its customers. It can even lead to a lawsuit.
Safety
Private building inspectors are trained to look at specific aspects of buildings that may pose safety risks. This can include inspecting the types of construction materials used and ensuring that a structure meets fire safety regulations. Inspectors also look for structural integrity, such as checking joists and roof timbers. They may also check for fire safety necessities, such as smoke detectors and sprinklers.
They conduct a thorough inspection process that includes plans and blueprint review, visual inspections during construction, and post-construction assessment of structural soundness. In addition, they can provide cost estimates and suggested timelines for addressing issues.
To maintain their safety, inspectors follow industrial standards of practice. This means wearing closed-toe shoes and using head protection when needed, as well as documenting conditions that present a risk of injury or illness. In addition, they should always carry a first aid kit for any minor injuries or medical emergencies that occur during an inspection. This ensures that inspectors can respond to them quickly and efficiently.
Reliability
While real estate lore has long portrayed merciless, if not downright unscrupulous city inspectors popping in on unaware building owners and demanding payoffs in exchange for passing grades, private inspection providers are far more likely to offer transparency and efficiency. They are also able to process inspections more quickly than their municipal counterparts, which can significantly reduce the caseload for overburdened building departments.
The speed of private inspections is a major draw for builders, as it helps them keep construction on track. Private inspections are often conducted at key stages in the construction cycle, such as after a foundation is poured or after framing is complete.
In addition to code compliance, private inspections can also assess the structural integrity of a building. This service can help avoid costly repairs or even a full structural rebuild in the future. However, it’s important to note that structural assessments should only be performed by qualified structural engineers. Private inspections can also identify problems that may not be visible to a builder, such as exposed wires or improperly installed insulation.
Expertise
Building inspectors ensure adherence to construction codes and safety regulations. They also mitigate risks like structural failures and fire hazards by identifying problems during critical stages of construction. In a complex market such as Florida, where real estate and construction thrive, the importance of these professionals cannot be overstated.
However, not all private building inspectors are created equal. Look for a professional with at least 250 inspections and three to five years of full-time experience. They should also have general liability and errors and omissions insurance, which protect both parties in the event of a dispute.
Many municipalities contract the responsibility for certain types of inspections to third-party providers. These providers may offer specialized knowledge and expertise, such as inspections of elevators, boilers, backflow valves, petroleum bulk storage units, property registration documents, facade condition, energy benchmarking, sprinkler/standpipe status, and water towers. They also save municipalities money by avoiding costs associated with paying benefits, insurance, and vacation time to in-house staff members.