Building official
In the United States, building officials are the jurisdictional administrators of building codes and other construction regulations, permits, licences, and so on. The term may also be used to refer to municipal or county government employees who are responsible for regulatory administration, supervision, enforcement, and inspection with regard to building code compliance.
Generally, there are two levels of municipal building official – the inspector of buildings (also known as the building commissioner) is the head of the building department, whilst other officials are typically known as local inspectors. The primary function of the inspectors is to ensure that uniform codes and standards are applied correctly during all phases and for all aspects of construction projects.
The UK equivalent are building control bodies (BCBs), who are responsible for checking building work to verify that it complies with regulations. For more information, see Building control bodies.
NB In 1994, three building code organisations merged to form the International Code Council (ICC) which publishes International Building Codes which cover health, safety, welfare, zoning ordinances, and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Your guide to The Construction Reset at UKCW Birmingham.
Accommodating the Victorian and Edwardian working woman. Book review.
Rethinking passive fire protection in design
PFP demands the same level of design rigour as structure or services.
38% of Gen Zs feel safe when a fire door is wedged open.
Stunning images from around the world
Shortlist for CIOB’s Art of Building photography competition.
Guidance for conversion of traditional pre-1919 stone buildings.
Industrial heritage in the Ruhr
A marked difference to the fate of industrial landscapes in the UK.
Communities will be able to build their own clean energy.
Why diversity and inclusion matters for SMEs
CIOB’s D&I Charter shows how practical changes can support long-term growth.
Cut electricity bills to power growth
Coalition sends joint letter to the Chancellor.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.