HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical path starts with finishing secondary school, especially courses in math, physics, science, drafting, and communications. Many students then take a college program or related training in construction, civil technology, building inspection, or a home inspector certificate, depending on the employer and the type of inspection work. Some people begin in construction trades, engineering support, or site supervision and later move into inspection. Early experience on job sites helps build knowledge of plans, materials, code compliance, and safe work practices. Requirements can vary by province, specialization, and employer.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy 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.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Communication SkillsCustomer RelationsWork in industry ethics or safetyReport Writing