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Building surveyors and building inspectors are both essential for maintaining safe and compliant structures. While there are some similarities between the two vital roles, it’s important to understand their key differences, particularly when you’re in the process of preparing for new building or renovation works.
What does a building surveyor do?
A building surveyor is a licensed and qualified professional who ensures that building projects comply with all the relevant building regulations, standards, and safety requirements in a state or local area. They become involved in a project from the very early stages, when a building permit must be obtained. Building surveyors are usually involved in a range of aspects linked to building safety, energy efficiency, accessibility, and fire safety, and they manage and approve the essential permits for construction.
During the building process, building surveyors typically work with clients, architects, contractors, and the local council, taking care of various issues that can come about during the project. They will continue to ensure that the project complies with requirements through inspections and reports.
What does a building inspector do?
Building inspectors, on the other hand, focus specifically on inspecting construction work at different stages of a project. They are tasked with checking specific parts of the building and making sure that each is compliant, and most importantly, safe. They generally follow a process that includes various parts of the building at different stages of the construction process, such as laying foundations, framing, and roofing.
Building inspectors don’t generally offer consulting or regulatory advice before a project begins, while building surveyors do. Instead, inspectors assess the project on-site, and will flag any problems or non-compliant work that could impact the integrity or safety of the structure. They may work privately, or with local councils and building authorities.
Summarising the key differences between building surveyors and building inspectors
Building surveyors and building inspectors both play vital roles in ensuring construction projects meet safety and regulatory standards. While it’s clear to see why these two positions can be confused, they do have distinct differences that set them apart, the primary one being the stage of the project that they are involved from.
In terms of qualifications, approved and registered building surveyors such as Fitout Permits, generally require a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in a field relating to building or construction. They may also need to be licensed by a government department. On the other hand, while building inspector’s also require education in construction-related disciplines, they may only need to hold a high school diploma (as a minimum requirement) and the relevant certification.
In essence, a building surveyor’s role is broader, including tasks like ensuring compliance, certification, and consultation, while a building inspector’s role is more focused on inspections at various stages of the project, and construction milestones. Both are crucial for a successful, compliant, and safe building project, and they may work together to ensure every structure meets the standards required for safe use. Knowing the differences between these two important roles will help you prepare for your next project!
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