Who is responsible for reviewing and approving special inspection reports?

The responsibility for reviewing and approving special inspection reports falls to the building official. This is because the building official is tasked with ensuring compliance with building codes and safety standards within a jurisdiction. The special inspection reports provide vital information about the construction process and materials used, which the building official must evaluate to guarantee that they meet the established regulations.

The building official's role includes assessing these reports to ensure that all work complies with the building permit and design documents. This oversight is crucial in maintaining safety and structural integrity. The approval of special inspection reports is a key part of the overall inspection process that helps to confirm that construction practices align with legal and safety requirements.

While the owner, contractor, and the Registered Design Professional (RDP) have their roles in the construction process, they do not hold the primary responsibility for the formal approval of these reports. The owner's interest typically lies in the project's successful completion, the contractor focuses on the execution of construction work, and the RDP is involved with the design aspects; none have the specific authority or duty to approve special inspection reports under building codes.