Building Inspector

Job Description

Function
The Building Official plans and directs the administration of the state building code (BOCA), performs related administrative and engineering work as required, performs skilled inspection work in securing compliance with state and county laws, and regulations governing new and existing buildings, inspects county-owned buildings and reports to administration of any needed repairs necessary to the safety of employees and the public, and performs other duties designated by the Board of Supervisors or County Administrator not specifically described.

Job Content
The Building Official Inspector, under general supervision of the County Administration, is appointed to administer the BOCA Building Code and to perform other administrative and engineering work as required. The Inspector acts on questions relative to manner of construction and materials to be used in the erection, addition to, alteration, repair, removal, demolition, location, use, and occupancy of all buildings and structures, in addition to installation of equipment. He inspects buildings, issues permits, ad confers with contractors and property owners to enforce the state building codes and related county ordinances. He examines blueprints or specifications of new buildings or contemplated repairs of old/existing ones for conformance with building codes. He inspects new buildings during construction to insure that they are constructed in accordance with the provisions of the BOCA Building Code. He interprets regulations and code to builders and property owners and assists them in altering construction plans to meet established standards. He prepares and maintains reports.

The Building Official receives, approves, and issues permits for the erection and alteration of buildings and structures and inspects premises as needed. He issues necessary notices or orders to remove illegal or unsafe conditions, requires technical data to be submitted to substantiate the proposed use of material or assembly, cooperates with the County Attorney or Commonwealth Attorney in the preparation of cases for court action, investigates and answers complaints regarding inspection activities, keeps records of applications as required, and coordinates the functions of the department with other county departments and other units of government. He utilizes sound engineering principles working with architects, contractors, consultants and municipal officials to approve and enforce permits, contractual specifications or building codes. He makes technical decisions requiring sound judgement and discretion, and he supervises the county building maintenance program.

The Inspector enforces the Flood Plain Management Ordinance. He serves as secretary to the Local Board of Appeals, and assists the Planning Commission in enforcing the Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance, the Subdivision Ordinance, and the Mobile Home Ordinance.

Education
A Civil Engineering Degree is preferred or any equivalent combination of experience and training, i.e., building inspector, contractor, or superintendent of building construction. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and gas fittings certifications are required.

Knowledge/Acceptable Experience
Knowledge of modern building construction practices, methods, material and equipment, state statutes and regulations, county codes, and national electric and plumbing codes is necessary. Also required is knowledge of state fire and safety regulations, building maintenance practices, methods, materials and equipment, experience in carpentry, plumbing, electrical service, heating, and air conditioning. The Inspector must have the ability to examine construction plans and specifications to determine compliance with building codes and ordinances. He must have supervisory or administrative experience in directing staff and working with public, contractors, and professional personnel. He must be dependable and in good physical condition.

Phone:
276.688.4622

Mail:
P.O. Box 510
Bland, VA 24315