Who approves of the special inspector's qualifications?

The approval of a special inspector's qualifications is typically the responsibility of the building official. This individual ensures that the special inspector possesses the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to perform their duties effectively. The building official is responsible for enforcing the building code and ensuring compliance with safety standards, which means they play a critical role in vetting individuals who are entrusted with the important task of conducting special inspections. This oversight helps maintain the integrity of the construction process and ensures that all inspections adhere to regulatory requirements.

While other parties, such as the Registered Design Professional (RDP) or the special inspection agency, may have a role in the overall process or in recommending inspectors, the ultimate approval comes from the building official. The contractor may have opinions or suggestions, but they do not have the authority to approve qualifications. Therefore, the building official's role is pivotal in guaranteeing that only qualified individuals are appointed to carry out special inspections in compliance with relevant codes and standards.