Wondering how to become a building inspector in Florida? Whether you're already in construction or starting fresh, this guide covers every step, from qualifications to certification exams.
Building inspectors ensure new and existing construction is structurally sound, safe, and meets building codes. They also verify that new buildings are being constructed according to approved plans. Their job entails reviewing building plans, inspecting and monitoring construction sites, testing, and enforcing regulations.
For those already in the construction industry, becoming a building inspector can be a welcome transition from the physical demands and fluctuations of the construction industry to a secure position with a local or state agency or a private company.
What Does a Building Inspector Do?
In Florida, a building code inspector usually works for a local or state agency with the responsibility of ensuring building construction, erection, repair, addition, or alteration complies with state and local construction codes.
Florida has eight categories of building code inspectors, including:
1. Building Inspector
2. Plumbing Inspector
3. Mechanical Inspector
4. Electrical Inspector
5. Coastal Construction Inspector
6. Commercial Electrical Inspector
7. Residential Inspector
8. One- and Two-family Dwelling Inspector
Building inspectors ensure public safety. They review building plans, inspect and monitor construction sites, conduct testing, and enforce regulations. Building inspectors have expert knowledge of local and state building codes, laws, and regulations.
Steps to Becoming a Certified Building Inspector
The biggest hurdles to becoming a certified building inspector include meeting the education and/or experience requirements and passing the exam.
Education and/or Education and Experience Requirements
Prior to taking the examination, you must meet one of the following eligibility requirements.
1. Minimum of four (4) years of experience in construction in the category sought.
2. Combination of postsecondary education or technical education in construction and work experience totaling three (3) years, with at least one (1) year of in-the-field experience.
3. Currently hold a standard certificate with three (3) years of experience in inspection or plan review and completion of a training program of at least 100 hours in the certification category sought.
4. Completion of a 200-hour training program with a minimum of two (2) years of experience in building code inspection, plan review, or fire code inspection.
5. Currently hold a fire safety inspector license with four (4) years of experience as an inspector or plans examiner or four (4) years of experience as a fire safety inspector plus a training course or program of at least 200 hours or 500 hours in the case of the residential inspector category.
6. Complete a four (4) year internship certification program.
Examination
The last hurdle is passing a technical exam and the Florida Principles and Practice exam. Both exams are open book; however, no handwritten or typed notes are permitted. Only books with permanently attached book tabs with normal chapter headings are allowed.
You need to apply with the Florida Building Code Administration to sit for your exams. After you are given approval, you will be issued an ID number and can then schedule your exams with Pearson VIE and International Code Council (ICC).
The Florida Principles and Practice exam has 50 questions with a required 70% to pass. The topics include:
- Building Construction Standards (13 questions)
- Contracting (5 questions)
- Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board (22 questions)
- Engineering, Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture (5 questions)
- Flood Insurance Regulation and Coastal Zone Protection (1 question)
- Motor Vehicle License (1 question)
- Worker’s Compensation, Chapter 440, F.S. (1 question)
- Construction Liens, Chapter 713, Part I, F.S. (2 questions)
The ICC Technical Code for Standard Building Inspectors has 60 to 80 questions and requires a score of 75% or better to pass. The number of questions depends on the category sought.
Tips for Passing the Certification Exams
Your best chances for passing the exams are to study and learn tips and tricks for taking standardized tests. On test day:
- Read the instructions carefully.
- Pace yourself.
- Record an answer for every question—even your best guess is better than leaving a response blank.
- Alert the Exam Proctor immediately to any problems
The best way to prepare to pass the exams is to take an exam preparatory course. The Contractor Training Center’s Florida building inspector exam prep course teaches you how to take the standardized timed tests, gives you the materials you need to know to pass, and provides the pre-tabbed, highlighted, and underlined references you can bring with you to the exam.
Your application to be a building inspector will include a background check to ensure you meet the basic building inspector licensing requirements.
Once you pass your exams, you’re ready to apply for your license with the Florida DBPR through their website.
What's the Difference Between a Home Inspector and a Building Inspector?
There is a substantial difference between home and building inspectors. According to the DBPR, building inspectors ensure buildings and homes meet building codes. Home inspectors prepare written professional opinions regarding the condition of a home.
Both building and home inspectors have construction knowledge. However, building inspectors have substantially more knowledge and experience in the industry, especially concerning local laws, regulations, and building codes—they are held to a higher standard than home inspectors.
Do You Need a License to Be a Building Inspector in Florida?
You’re required to be certified by the DBPR to perform building inspections in Florida. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) issues building inspector certificates (licenses) To be eligible for certification, you must meet several requirements:
- Be 18 years old and of good moral character.
- Meet minimum education and/or experience standards.
- Pay the required fees.
- Submit an application, including a background check.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Building Inspector in Florida?
It takes at least three to four years to get the experience and/or education required to take the exam. Once you meet the experience and education requirements, the application process can take several months.
The most time-consuming components of the licensing procedure are waiting for and taking the exam and passing the background check.
What is the Demand and Salary for Building Inspectors?
With a booming construction industry, it’s a great time to become a building inspector, especially if you are already working in the construction industry and meet the experience requirements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, building inspectors earn a median salary of $67,700.
According to Zip Recruiter, the average wage for a building inspector in Florida is $51,474; however, the higher paid inspectors make $76,970. The highest paying cities in Florida are Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. Salaries also vary depending on the building inspection category.
Prepare for Your Building Inspector Certification
A career as a Florida building inspector offers stability, professional growth, and the opportunity to play a vital role in public safety. For licensed contractors and construction professionals, this career path provides a logical transition with significant benefits.
If you're considering becoming a Florida building inspector, obtaining the right certifications is essential. The Contractor Training Center can give you the edge you need to pass the Florida Building Inspector’s licensing exam and be well on your way to securing a position in this field.