Special Inspections (IBC Chapter 17)
Chapter 17 of the International Building Code (IBC), published by the International Code Council (ICC), requires Special Inspections on many commercial construction projects. These inspections involve observing and testing designated materials and building components to document whether they are installed in accordance with the approved plans, specifications, and applicable building code requirements.
What Special Inspectors Do
Individuals who perform Special Inspections observe specific building or structural features to verify compliance with the plans and specifications approved by the building official. Among other duties, a special inspector is required to observe and inspect items specified by the design professional and report any nonconforming items to the contractor.
Inspectors are approved by the building official and are typically engaged by the owner or design professional.
Why Special Inspections Exist
Following the collapse of a hotel’s walkway in Kansas City in 1981, the United States House of Representatives sought a way to ensure that all public facilities were constructed according to the design plans as well as local building codes. In 1988, the Building Officials and Code Administrators International (BOCA) introduced the first Special Inspection requirements.
Our Special Inspection Services
S.W.COLE performs Special Inspections on projects throughout northern New England, supporting owners, contractors, and design teams on projects of varying size and complexity. Our services include:
Soils Inspections:
- Verification of site preparation prior to placement of prepared fill
- Verification of fill material and maximum lift thickness
- Inspection of installation and testing of pile and pier foundations
Concrete Inspections:
- Installation observations of reinforcing steel, formwork, anchor bolts and placement methods
- Sampling and testing of fresh concrete
Masonry Inspections:
- Verification and sampling of site-prepared mortar and grout, construction of mortar joints and locations of reinforcements and connectors
Steel Inspections:
- Material verification of bolts, nuts and washers, structural steel and weld filler materials
- Visual and non-destructive inspection of bolted and welded connections
Fire-Proofing Materials:
- Verification of the thickness, adhesion/bond strength and density of materials
Wood Framing and Fasteners:
- Material verification of framing and sheathing products, fasteners and connections
Understanding Your Project’s Requirements
Special Inspection programs vary depending on project design, structural systems, and local code adoption.
The Statement of Special Inspections outlines:
- Required inspections and testing
- The individual responsible for coordinating inspections
- Approved agencies providing inspection and testing services
We can help you review this document and determine which services are needed for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Refer to your project’s Statement of Special Inspections, which lists the required inspections, responsible parties, and approved agencies.
We offer a wide range of Special Inspection services. Contact us to confirm availability for your project and location.
A Final Report of Special Inspections must be submitted to the building official before a Certificate of Use and Occupancy is issued. This report documents that all required inspections were completed and notes how any discrepancies were addressed.