BUILDING INSPECTOR

POSITION SUMMARY

The Building Inspector is responsible for administering and enforcing applicable building codes, regulations, ordinances, and permit requirements within the City of Somerset. The position performs inspections of new construction, additions, alterations, renovations, repairs, demolitions, and other construction activities; reviews plans and permit applications; issues permits as authorized; identifies code violations; communicates required corrections; and conducts follow-up inspections to verify compliance.

The Building Inspector serves as a primary point of contact for property owners, contractors, architects, engineers, and members of the public regarding construction requirements and code compliance. The position requires technical knowledge of construction practices and applicable codes, sound judgment, attention to detail, effective communication skills, and the ability to work independently. The Building Inspector reports to the Mayor, Chief of Staff, and/or appointed designee.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

•    Performs inspections of residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and other construction projects for compliance with applicable codes, approved plans, permits, and regulations.

•    Performs inspections at appropriate stages of construction, including foundations, structural framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, insulation, life-safety components, and final inspections, as authorized by the City’s adopted codes and the inspector’s certifications.

•    Reviews building permit applications, construction plans, specifications, site plans, and related documents for compliance with applicable requirements.

•   Issues and administer building and other construction-related permits as authorized by the City.

•    Determines required inspections and documentation based on the type and scope of a construction project.

•    Interprets and applies applicable building codes, Kentucky regulations, City ordinances, zoning requirements, and other adopted standards.

•    Identifies construction deficiencies and code violations and communicates required corrections to responsible parties.

•   Conduct follow-up inspections to verify correction of deficiencies and violations.

•    Documents inspection results, permits, violations, approvals, and other activities accurately and in a timely manner.

•    Investigates complaints involving construction, unsafe structures, code violations, and other matters within the City’s jurisdiction.

•    Identifies construction performed without required permits and takes appropriate action in accordance with City policies, ordinances, and applicable law.

•   Prepare inspection reports, notices, correspondence, and other documentation.

•    Maintains accurate records relating to permits, inspections, plans, violations, and enforcement activities.

•    Provides information and general technical guidance to property owners, contractors, architects, engineers, and the public concerning applicable construction requirements.

•    Participates in meetings concerning construction projects, code compliance, permits, and inspections when appropriate.

•    Coordinates with other City departments, utilities, emergency services, regulatory agencies, and other organizations as necessary.

•    Assists with enforcement activities, including notices of violation, stop-work orders, unsafe building matters, and other corrective actions when authorized.

•    Maintains current knowledge of applicable construction codes, regulations, ordinances, and industry practices.

•    Maintains required certifications and completes continuing education necessary to perform assigned duties.

•    Utilizes computers, inspection software, permitting systems, electronic records, Microsoft Office, and other technology necessary to perform the position.

•   Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

•   Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and practices.

•   Knowledge of applicable building codes, regulations, and construction standards.

•    Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and technical documents.

•   Ability to identify construction deficiencies and communicate required corrections.

•   Ability to interpret and consistently apply applicable codes and regulations.

•    Strong written and verbal communication skills.

•   Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.

•    Ability to communicate professionally with contractors, architects, engineers, property owners, City officials, and the general public.

•   Ability to organize and prioritize multiple inspections, permits, projects, and deadlines.

•   Ability to prepare accurate reports and maintain detailed records.

•   Ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions within the authority of the position.

•   Ability to work independently with appropriate direction and oversight.

•    Proficiency with computers and common office software.

•   Ability to maintain professional relationships while enforcing applicable requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

•   High school diploma or equivalent.

•    Building Inspector certification required by applicable Kentucky law and/or regulations, or ability to obtain required certification within a specified period established by the City.

•   Knowledge of residential and/or commercial construction practices.

•   Valid driver’s license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

•    Five years of experience in construction, building inspection, code enforcement, plan review, architecture, engineering, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or a related field.

•    Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction, building science, architecture, engineering, code administration, or a related field.

•   Additional Kentucky building inspection certifications.

•    Experience performing commercial building inspections.

•   Experience reviewing construction plans and specifications.

•   Experience with permitting or electronic inspection systems.

•    Previous municipal or governmental inspection/code-enforcement experience.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in both an office environment and active construction sites. The position may be exposed to construction equipment, dust, noise, unfinished structures, elevated areas, varying weather conditions, and other conditions commonly associated with construction sites. The employee is expected to use appropriate safety equipment and follow applicable City safety policies.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

•   Walking and standing for extended periods.

•   Climbing stairs and accessing areas of buildings and construction sites.

•    Bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and maneuvering around construction areas.

•   Visually inspecting construction components and conditions.

•    Carrying inspection equipment, plans, documents, and related materials.

•   Working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

•    Entering unfinished, partially completed, and other construction areas when necessary to perform inspections.

DISCLAIMER

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by an employee in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions. The City reserves the right to modify duties and responsibilities as necessary to meet operational requirements and applicable laws, ordinances, policies, and procedures.