If you’re a building inspector, you know how important it is to thoroughly check both residential and commercial buildings to make sure they meet all the relevant building codes and safety standards. Catching issues early can prevent dangerous situations and save tons of money on repairs down the road. 

This guide covers everything you need to know, whether you’re totally new to building inspections or you’ve been doing them forever. I’ll go over the most common codes, typical violations to look for, how to document and report problems, tips for working with contractors on fixes, and best practices to ensure compliance after repairs are done.

My goal is to give you a handy resource to refresh your skills on effectively spotting code violations and enforcing critical safety standards in your community. Together, we can make sure all buildings are up to code and safe for people to live and work in!

Common Building Codes 

To identify violations, you first need to know the specific building codes and standards adopted where you work. The model codes used across the U.S. include:

International Building Code (IBC) – Sets commercial construction standards 

International Residential Code (IRC) – Applies to residential buildings under 3 stories

International Plumbing Code (IPC) – Requirements for plumbing systems and fixtures

International Mechanical Code (IMC) – Guidelines for HVAC and refrigeration  

International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) – Regulations for fuel gas and appliances

International Fire Code (IFC) – Fire safety rules for commercial and residential  

International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) – Energy efficiency standards 

National Electrical Code (NEC) – Minimum electrical requirements

Make sure you know which editions of the codes are used locally, plus any amendments. Get very familiar with the books for each inspection type you do.

Residential Building Code Violations

When you inspect single-family homes, duplexes, townhouses and other residential buildings, watch for:

Structural Issues

Improperly sized, spaced or installed framing members are a big one. Also check for enough shear wall strength with proper fastening. Masonry walls and footings need the right reinforcement. Make sure drywall is secured properly to prevent cracking down the road.

Check that window and door headers are sized right and not missing. Walls and floors should have adequate fireblocking too.

Electrical Issues  

An outdated electrical panel without enough capacity for current loads is unsafe. Make sure systems are properly grounded. Watch for open junction boxes missing covers, overloaded circuits and extension cords used in place of wiring.

Exposed Romex wiring should run through proper channels. Kitchen and bathroom outlets near water need GFCI protection. Bedroom circuits require AFCI protection against arcs for fire safety. 

Plumbing Issues

Look for leaky or corroded pipes and fittings. Drain lines have to slope right so water flows properly. All plumbing needs secure strapping and hangers. Make sure required backflow preventers are there so pollutants don’t enter potable water.

Water heaters must have temperature relief valves and discharge piping. Watch for unpermitted work by unqualified people too.

Fire Safety Issues  

Missing or non-working smoke alarms are a top priority, as are lack of carbon monoxide detectors when needed. There should be proper fire separation between the garage and living space. 

Check egress window sizes and opening heights – they must meet code minimums. Stairways and handrails that are improperly built can cause falls and injury. Pay close attention to any fire resistance ratings and firestopping between walls and floors.

Commercial Building Code Violations

Larger commercial buildings have additional codes and standards to comply with. Watch for issues in these areas during inspections:

ADA Compliance Issues

Interior routes have to meet minimum width requirements for disability access. All buildings need the right amount of ADA parking spots, including van accessible ones. 

Check ramp slopes, handrails and edge protection adhere to standards. Door thresholds can’t exceed maximum height limits either. Bathroom turning spaces, fixture clearances and reach ranges must comply too.

Fire Safety Issues 

Walls between occupancies require proper fire resistance ratings. Fire doors need the right hardware and installation. Penetrations through fire-rated assemblies must be sealed up tight. Make sure exit pathways have adequate lighting and signage.

Check that travel distances to approved exits aren’t too far. Fire extinguishers should be where they need to be. Commercial kitchen hoods require the right suppression systems. 

Electrical Issues

With big electrical loads, the service entrance wires and gear must be sized adequately. Equipment like signs should have disconnect switches nearby. All wiring methods used have to meet code, especially in kitchens and laundries.

Exit signs and emergency lighting provide critical evacuation guidance when the power goes out. Make sure they work properly and get tested as required.

Structural Issues  

Check for any signs of overloading, corrosion or foundation settling that compromise structural stability. Storage rack systems need to meet capacity and installation requirements. Heavy objects require proper anchors to floor slabs so they don’t topple over in an earthquake.  

Equipment like HVAC units must have adequate structural support. Expansion joints and seismic connectors are crucial in earthquake-prone regions too.

Documenting and Reporting Violations

Once you complete the inspection, properly document any notable code deficiencies you find. Here are some tips:

– Cite the exact code section being violated for each issue in your report – this is critical. 

– Take lots of photos and videos to document, and attach them to the report. They really help show the problems.

– Use software that embeds photos and links code references to streamline your reporting.

– Clearly explain repair recommendations based on the code requirements. Provide options if you have them.

– Set firm compliance deadlines based on the violation severity – safety issues first.

– Go over the report with the owner or contractor in person to explain and answer questions. 

– Give copies to the owner and keep them in your files. Follow up in writing if repairs lag past the deadlines.

Thorough documentation protects you, keeps everyone on the same page, and gives clear guidance on achieving compliance before occupancy can be approved.

Working with Contractors to Fix Violations

As an inspector, working cooperatively with contractors and owners ensures code issues get fixed properly. Here are some tips:

– Maintain open communication – be available to answer their questions.

– Provide technical guidance but let them determine how to execute repairs. 

– Review repair plans to ensure they’ll meet compliance.

– Grant reasonable extensions for delays if parts are backordered or other issues come up. Document the new timeline.

– Build good relationships with contractors who do quality work and follow codes.

– For serious or repeat violations, recommend reputable contractors who can fix them correctly. 

– Point contractors to helpful educational resources to improve their code knowledge.

By collaborating positively with contractors doing repairs, you become an ally in solving problems and achieving safety compliance.

Ensuring Compliance After Repairs

Once repairs are done, thoroughly reinspect previously deficient areas to verify full compliance. Check:

– Repairs match the original proposals and correctly address violations cited.

– All faulty components were properly repaired or replaced as needed.

– Any new work met code requirements. 

– Affected systems and equipment function properly after repairs.

– No new violations were created during the repair work.

Review any required testing reports, like for fire alarms and sprinklers. Make sure all necessary permits were pulled too. Let owners and contractors know about any new issues found during reinspection right away.

Only approve occupancy when health and safety violations are fully resolved and your report verifies compliance. Doing diligent follow-up ensures repairs are done right so problems don’t reoccur. 

Conclusion

As an inspector, your specialized skills and code knowledge are crucial to identify issues that could endanger occupants if not addressed. Follow this guide when inspecting buildings of all types to catch violations related to electrical, fire protection, plumbing, structure, accessibility and more. 

Thoroughly document findings, communicate with owners and contractors, set firm but reasonable repair timelines, and double-check compliance after repairs. These best practices help uphold building safety standards and prevent avoidable disasters.

Stay sharp through continuing education and field experience. Building codes exist to protect public health and safety above all else. Your inspections are the first critical line of defense!

Let me know if you have any other questions about effectively spotting and reporting code violations – I’m always happy to help fellow inspectors. Here’s to safe, code-compliant buildings across the country!