What is the primary function of a building inspector?

The primary function of a building inspector is to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. Building inspectors are responsible for reviewing the construction and renovation of buildings to verify that they meet all relevant building codes, safety standards, zoning laws, and other regulatory requirements. This compliance is essential for the health and safety of the occupants and the public, as well as for the structural integrity of the buildings. Inspectors perform various inspections throughout the construction process to confirm that the work being done adheres to these legal standards.

The role of a building inspector focuses specifically on safety, structural integrity, and code adherence rather than on subjective issues like design aesthetics or market values. Financial advice and market analysis are outside the inspector's scope of duties, which primarily revolves around protecting the public by ensuring that buildings are built to code.