Building inspector

Building inspectors check buildings and construction sites for structural problems, weathertightness and compliance with plans, building codes and other regulations.

Also known as

Building surveyor, building control officer, plumbing and drainage inspector, scaffolding inspector

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work evenings or weekends
  • Usually work in offices and on construction sites and may travel locally and nationally
  • May work in hazardous, dusty or dirty conditions and at heights
  • Need to be methodical, accurate and responsible

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$60K-$148K 60000

Typical tasks

  • Inspect homes and buildings for energy usage
  • Analyse energy use and power costs
  • Suggest ways to save energy
  • Check equipment meets energy standards
  • Calculate energy savings from improvements
  • Research environmentally friendly energy solutions
  • Test building materials and insulation
  • Assess costs of energy-saving projects
  • Prepare reports on energy usage

Outlook

Building inspection has a stable outlook in New Zealand because safe, healthy and code-compliant buildings remain essential. The sector is influenced by building consent reform, housing demand, climate resilience, sustainability and changing construction methods. Digital consenting tools and better use of building data are also changing how inspections are managed. Opportunities may vary with construction cycles, but the need for strong building compliance remains important.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Strong understanding of building rules, safety and quality standards
  • Careful attention to detail when checking plans and building work
  • Clear communication with builders, homeowners and council staff
  • Good judgement and confidence making fair, evidence-based decisions
  • Ability to use digital tools for reports, records and inspections
  • Integrity and consistency when applying regulations

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.