Building Site Inspector
Job Description:Building site inspectors check the quality and safety of construction work.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this role you will:
- Inspect construction sites
- Check that work is following building regulations
- Make sure that work is following project plans
- Measure and sample building materials to check their quality
- Find defects and recommend ways to fix them
- Monitor work progress
- Write reports for construction managers and clients
Skills:
You’ll need:
- Knowledge of building and construction
- Maths knowledge
- To be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- To be thorough and pay attention to detail
- The ability to use your initiative (drive)
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- analytical thinking skills – the ability to analyse quality or performance
- problem-solving skills – the ability to identify and address potential issues or challenges on construction sites
- leadership skills
Entry Requirements:
Becoming a Building Site Inspector typically involves a mix of education, experience, and specific skills rather than strict subject requirements. However, certain subjects can provide a solid foundation for the skills and knowledge needed in this field. Here are some subjects that can be relevant for becoming a Building Site Inspector:
- Mathematics: Strong math skills are essential for understanding measurements, calculations, and technical aspects of construction projects.
- Design and Technology: This subject can provide you with a basic understanding of construction methods, materials, and technical drawings.
- Science Subjects: Physics can be particularly useful for understanding structural integrity, forces, and mechanics related to buildings and construction.
- English: Good communication skills, both written and verbal, are important for documenting findings, writing reports, and interacting with construction teams and stakeholders.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Familiarity with digital tools and software can aid in recording and organising data, as well as producing reports and documentation.
- Geography: An understanding of geographical factors, such as terrain, climate, and environmental considerations, can be relevant when assessing construction sites.
- Health and Safety: Basic knowledge of health and safety regulations and practices is essential for ensuring that construction sites adhere to safety standards.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- A university course
- A college course
- An apprenticeship
- Working towards this role
- Applying directly
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- Building studies
- Construction
- Civil engineering
- Surveying
College
Once you have some construction experience, you could complete a college course to help you progress to site supervisor and inspector roles.
Courses in the UK include:
- Level 3 Diploma in Construction Site Supervisory Studies
- Level 4 Diploma in Construction Site Supervision
- Level 4 Certificate or Diploma in Construction Site Management
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships relevant to this role include:
- Construction site supervisor higher apprenticeship
- Construction site engineering technician higher apprenticeship
- Construction site management degree apprenticeship
Work
You could work as a site tradesperson, building technician or surveying assistant and move up to become a site inspector through on-the-job training.
Direct Application
You could apply directly to work as a building site inspector. To do this, you’ll need several years’ construction experience. Qualifications in health and safety will also be useful.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 41 to 43 hours of work.
You could be required to work evenings/weekends.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could:
- Move into site management, building surveying, civil engineering or construction management.
- Set up your own site inspection business and work as a consultant, or move into training.