How to Work with a Building Inspector

Posted by Anonymous , 9/5/2007 Tags:withBuildingInspector
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How to Work with a Building Inspector

Introduction

Building inspectors not only inspect buildings but also inspect the ground, water systems, streets and other surrounding structures to assure construction is complying with national, federal, state and local building codes. Building inspectors also play an important role when you are buying a home, building a new home or remodeling an existing home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Apply for a building permit if you are adding an addition to your home or doing any type of electrical work such as putting in new lines. The building inspector's first visit will be to see the type of construction and basically inspect the area to ensure you are working according to building codes.
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Step Two

Obtain a list of work that needs to be inspected by a building inspector from your local municipal office. Contact the building inspector before any work on plumbing, insulation, furnace or central air conditioning installation just to name a few. Also contact the building inspector after work is completed for a final inspection.
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Step Three

Seek the advice of your home building inspector. The initial visit of a home building inspector is to evaluate the area that the building permit is for, advise you on the condition of the area, and determine if there is any type of work that needs to be done in order for the work area to be up to code to continue with the project. After the area is brought up to code, another visit is required by the home building inspector. He must assess the area and evaluate if the area is properly up to code, thus giving you permission to continue on your project.
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Step Four

Address any concerns with the home building inspector and ask any questions. This develops a clear understanding of what is required of you, the homeowner, and what to expect from the home building inspector.
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Step Five

Get a home building inspector when buying a home. They evaluate the existing conditions of the home just to advise you and make you aware of anything that may need repaired in the future.
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Step Six

Read up on building inspectors for your area by searching on your state's website. Also check out if your local area has a website for building inspectors.

Tips & Warnings

  • Building inspectors will conduct many visits to a site that is either being remodeled or under new construction. When applying for a building permit, get a list of what each visit will be for and what is required before and after any of the visits.
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