Building Inspector Certification: Code Theory & Principles

Building Inspector certification prep covering IBC theory, structural inspections, plan review, and MEP systems.

What you'll learn

Navigate and interpret the International Building Code structure to locate relevant code requirements efficiently.

Apply occupancy classifications and hazard levels to determine allowable building use, occupant loads, and separation requirements.

Conduct structural inspections of foundations, framing, concrete, masonry, and steel components to verify code compliance.

Evaluate means of egress, fire protection, and accessibility features to ensure safe emergency routes and barrier-free design.

Requirements

Basic knowledge of building construction and terminology; ability to read architectural and engineering drawings; access to the International Building Code (IBC) and supplemental standards; computer with PDF reader.

Description

Welcome to 'Building Inspector Certification: Code Theory & Principles'! This comprehensive course is designed to equip aspiring building inspectors, code enforcement officers, and construction professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to master building code theory and inspection principles. Through engaging lectures, detailed examples, and real-world scenarios, you'll gain a deep understanding of the International Building Code (IBC), supplemental standards, plan review techniques, and inspection best practices.This course covers the fundamentals of building code development, organization roles (ICC, NFPA), code structure, editions, and referencing of supplemental standards like NFPA, ASTM, and ANSI. You'll learn how to navigate code chapters, sections, tables, and charts, and apply them during plan reviews and field inspections. Our modules on code enforcement workflows, permit issuance, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) will prepare you to manage compliance mechanisms and enforcement actions with confidence.Dive into occupancy classification and use groups to determine allowable building use, occupant loads, hazard levels, and separation requirements. Master means of egress design, fire protection principles, accessible design per ADA and ICC A117.1 standards, and moisture control strategies for building envelopes. Structural inspections of wood framing, concrete, masonry, steel, and alternative materials will ensure you can verify load paths, reinforcement, welding, bolting, and corrosion protection to meet code-prescribed details.Learn to perform thorough plan reviews using redlining, checklists, correction notices, and documentation techniques. You will also explore site and rough-in inspection procedures for earthwork, utilities, structural framing, and MEP systems. Our in-depth coverage of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and life safety systems will help you identify common violations and enforce corrective actions. Final inspections and certificate of occupancy processes are explained step by step to facilitate smooth project completion.Throughout the course, you'll develop professional skills such as report writing with code references, photographs, and corrective action guidance. Legal, liability, and ethical considerations are also covered to help you mitigate risk, uphold due process, and maintain high standards. Communication and stakeholder management modules will refine your ability to collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and regulatory agencies effectively.Note: this course provides comprehensive preparation for building inspector certification exams based on publicly available resources and standard exam formats. This is not official exam preparation material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any exam vendor or regulatory organization. You should consult official sources and jurisdiction-specific requirements for complete exam details.By the end of this course, you’ll feel confident navigating complex building codes, conducting detailed inspections, completing plan reviews, and producing professional reports. Whether you’re starting your career as a building inspector or seeking to advance your professional credentials, this course offers the practical knowledge and actionable skills needed for success in the field. Enroll now and take the next step toward mastering building code theory, inspection practices, and certification excellence!

Overview

Section 1: Introduction

Lecture 1 Hello and Course Overview

Section 2: Building Code Fundamentals

Lecture 2 Building Code Development & Organizations

Lecture 3 Code Structure & Editions

Lecture 4 Code Referencing & Supplemental Standards

Lecture 5 Code Enforcement & Authorities Having Jurisdiction

Lecture 6 Plan Review Basics & Documentation

Section 3: Structural & Envelope Systems Inspection

Lecture 7 Means of Egress & Fire Protection Principles

Lecture 8 Structural Loads & Material Properties

Lecture 9 Foundations & Soil Requirements

Lecture 10 Wood Framing Inspection

Lecture 11 Concrete & Masonry Inspection

Lecture 12 Steel & Alternative Structural Systems

Lecture 13 Building Envelope & Moisture Control

Lecture 14 Accessibility & Barrier-Free Design

Lecture 15 Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Requirements

Section 4: Systems Inspections & Professional Development

Lecture 16 Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing Systems

Lecture 17 Fire Protection Systems & Life Safety

Lecture 18 Site & Rough-In Inspection Procedures

Lecture 19 Report Writing & Documentation Best Practices

Lecture 20 Legal, Liability & Ethical Considerations

Lecture 21 Communication Skills & Stakeholder Management

Lecture 22 Preparing for Certification Exam & Continuing Education

Section 5: Summary & Next Steps

Lecture 23 Congratulations and Next Steps

This course is designed for aspiring building inspectors, code enforcement officers, architects, engineers, and construction professionals seeking comprehensive understanding and practical skills in building code theory, plan review, and inspection practices to achieve certification and excel in their careers.