Are you a code inspector?

Submitted by DonHester on Wed, 12/05/2012 - 18:14.

Are you a code inspector? Chelan Home Inspection Services

This seems to be a very controversial topic in the land of home inspectors. It is said we are generalist and not code inspectors or experts… at least that is what the prevailing wind says.

Well I say we are all code inspectors, we have to be. If you are not basing your observation on codes then what are you to base them on, gut feeling?

Building codes are sets of governing regulations for the design, construction, alteration, and maintenance of structures. They specify the minimum requirements to adequately safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants.

Most local jurisdictions adopt some form of the model codes rather than creating and maintaining their own codes. Those model building codes are maintained by the International Code Council (ICC). The ICC’s family of International Codes includes:

International Building Code (IBC): Applies to almost all types of new buildings
International Residential Code (IRC): Applies to new one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses of not more than three stories in height
International Existing Building Code (IEBC): Applies to the alteration, repair, addition, or change in occupancy of existing structures

Most of the ICC codes model sections after the other specific codes such as the NEC for electrical and UPC for plumbing.

This is where it gets sticky… each jurisdiction may adopt or modify a code and a specific code cycle. They may not enforce certain codes. As inspectors we may never know what all is enforced.

So this is why we are not is code enforcement. We do not have the power to force anything on anyone. Now we do have some power in that most of our clients use our opinions to cause action. But the other parties can say no without legal ramification.

By the Washington State SOP’s-

“An inspector is to perform their services and express opinions based on genuine conviction and only within the inspector's area of education, training, or expertise.

Inspectors are not limited from examining other systems and components or including other inspection services. Likewise, if the inspector is qualified and willing to do so, an inspector may specify the type of repairs to be made.“

This is not how I described the repair

Wow now that is a lot of responsibility! I take that responsibility very seriously and it is in my humble opinion that we should not shackle ourselves to the mantra that we are “just generalist”.

We see the building structure from the greatest vantage point, as a system of components that must work together to ensure the welfare, health and durability of the structure in the best interest of our clients, to the best of our ability. We are being hired as the expert!

Guess what… even experts are not perfect and make mistake, but you will never achieve greater awareness and expertise unless you step into the fray.

Ancora Imparo

NCW Home Inspections, LLC is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Oroville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…

Your Wenatchee and Chelan Professional Real Estate, Home and Structural Pest Inspection Service

www.ncwhomeinspections.com 509-670-9572

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Are you a code inspector?