Which of the following is a critical building element often subjected to special inspections?

The correct answer highlights seismic force resisting systems as a critical building element often subjected to special inspections due to their vital role in ensuring a structure's safety during seismic events. These systems are designed to counteract the forces exerted on a building during earthquakes, making their integrity paramount to protecting occupants and maintaining structural stability.

Special inspections are mandated for these systems to confirm that they are designed and constructed as specified in the building codes and approved plans, ensuring they fulfill their intended function effectively. The complexity and safety implications of seismic designs necessitate thorough oversight to minimize risks associated with potential seismic failures.

Other options, while important, do not typically receive the same level of scrutiny regarding structural integrity and safety during seismic events. For instance, interior finishes and non-structural elements, while essential to the overall design and usability of a building, do not generally require special inspections as they do not directly contribute to the structural resilience of the building. Landscaping features are also considered non-critical from a structural standpoint and do not fall under the stringent requirements set for special inspections related to seismic safety.