Top 11 Construction Inspector Certifications

Certifications are important for a construction inspector in the job market because they demonstrate that the inspector has knowledge and experience in the field. Certifications can provide employers with assurance that the inspector is knowledgeable, trustworthy, and capable of performing inspection tasks accurately and efficiently. Additionally, certifications may be required by employers or clients to ensure that inspectors meet certain standards and qualifications. They can also help an inspector stand out from other applicants when seeking employment opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Construction Inspectors and discuss how they can help to further their career.

What are Construction Inspector Certifications?

Construction inspector certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the field of construction inspection. It is designed to provide a standard of excellence for construction inspectors and to help ensure the safety, quality, and performance of the built environment.

The certification program consists of two components: a written exam and an on-site practical evaluation. The written exam tests knowledge of technical standards, building codes, construction methods, materials specifications, building systems, and other related areas. The on-site practical evaluation evaluates the skills and abilities needed to perform inspections in the field.

Having a construction inspector certification can help individuals demonstrate their expertise in this field and increase their employability by showing employers that they have met or exceeded industry standards for training and experience. It can also help them gain credibility with clients who are looking for experienced professionals to inspect their projects. Additionally, it can provide access to additional career opportunities such as teaching courses or becoming a consultant in the construction industry.

Pro Tip: When seeking construction inspector certification, make sure to research the requirements for each type of certification and ensure you have the necessary qualifications, experience, and/or training. Additionally, it is important to verify that the certifying organization is accredited and reputable in order to ensure your certification will be recognized.

Related: What does a Construction Inspector do?

Top 11 Construction Inspector Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Construction Inspectors today.

1. American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certified Field Testing Technician

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certified Field Testing Technician program is a certification program for individuals who demonstrate proficiency in performing and documenting field tests of concrete. The certification is valid for five years and requires renewal to maintain the designation.

In order to become an ACI Certified Field Testing Technician, applicants must pass two exams: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as concrete properties, sampling techniques, testing methods, and reporting requirements. The practical exam involves demonstrating proficiency in performing field tests on concrete samples.

The cost of the ACI Certified Field Testing Technician program varies depending on the location of the test center and the type of certification being sought. Generally, it costs around $500-600 to take both exams. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for or taking the exams.

To get certified, applicants must first register with ACI and pay any applicable fees. After registration is complete, they can schedule their written and practical exams at an approved testing center near them. It typically takes between 4-6 weeks to receive results from the exams after they have been taken.

2. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is a certification program that recognizes welders who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in welding inspection. The AWS CWI certification provides assurance to employers, clients, and the public that the certified individual has met rigorous standards for competency in welding inspection.

To become an AWS CWI, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of relevant work experience in welding inspection or related fields, such as quality control or non-destructive testing. Candidates must also pass a written exam administered by the American Welding Society.

The written exam consists of two parts: Part A covers welding fundamentals and codes; Part B covers practical application of welding codes and standards. Both parts are multiple-choice exams with a total of 175 questions that must be completed within four hours.

The cost to take the AWS CWI exam varies depending on the location and type of exam taken (paper or computer-based). In general, the cost ranges from $300-$500 USD for paper exams and $400-$600 USD for computer-based exams.

Once an applicant passes both parts of the exam, they will receive their AWS CWI certification card and will be eligible to renew their certification every three years by taking a recertification exam or completing continuing education credits.

3. International Code Council (ICC) Certified Building Inspector

The International Code Council (ICC) Certified Building Inspector is a professional certification program for individuals who inspect buildings for compliance with building codes. The certification is internationally recognized and provides a level of assurance that an inspector is knowledgeable in the field of building inspection.

To become certified as an ICC Certified Building Inspector, applicants must meet certain education and experience requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, and agree to abide by the ICC Code of Ethics. The exam covers topics such as construction materials, building systems, code enforcement principles, and safety standards.

It typically takes approximately three months to complete the process of becoming an ICC Certified Building Inspector. The first step is to submit an application to the ICC along with all required documentation such as transcripts and proof of work experience. Once the application has been approved, applicants can register for the exam which must be taken at an authorized testing center. After passing the exam, applicants must submit proof of completion of continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification status.

The cost of becoming an ICC Certified Building Inspector varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD including fees for registration, examination and continuing education courses.

4. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level II or III Construction Inspector

National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level II or III Construction Inspector is a certification program for individuals who want to become certified construction inspectors. It is administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of construction inspection.

In order to obtain NICET Level II or III Construction Inspector certification, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience as a construction inspector. They must also pass a written examination that covers topics such as building codes, safety regulations, inspection procedures, and other related topics. Applicants must also submit proof of their experience and education to NICET.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the level of certification being sought. The Level II exam costs $395 while the Level III exam costs $495. In addition to these fees, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining documentation required for submission with your application.

It typically takes about 6-8 weeks from the time you submit your application until you receive your results from NICET. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate within 4-6 weeks after passing the exam.

5. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Construction Safety Course

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Construction Safety Course is a training program designed to help employers and employees recognize and reduce the risks of job site hazards. The course provides an overview of OSHA standards as they apply to construction sites, including topics such as hazard recognition, fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment, and more. It also covers safety management systems and how to create a safe working environment.

The 10-hour course typically takes two days to complete. It can be taken online or in person at approved training centers. The cost varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $100 - $200 per person.

To take the 10-hour course, you must first register with an approved OSHA training center. You will then receive instructions on how to access the online course material or attend an in-person class. Once you have completed the course, you will receive a certificate of completion that is valid for five years from the date of issue.

6. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Construction Quality Management for Contractors

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Construction Quality Management for Contractors is a program that provides contractors with the tools and training to ensure that their projects are completed with quality and safety in mind. The program focuses on the following areas: project planning, construction management, contract administration, risk management, and quality control.

The program is designed to help contractors improve their project performance by providing them with the necessary resources and training to ensure that their projects are completed according to industry standards. The program also helps contractors understand the importance of safety and how to implement safety measures into their projects.

In order to become certified in ASCE Construction Quality Management for Contractors, contractors must complete an online application form as well as pass a written exam administered by ASCE. The exam consists of multiple choice questions related to construction quality management principles. Once applicants have passed the exam, they receive certification from ASCE validating their knowledge of construction quality management principles.

It typically takes around two weeks for applicants to receive their certification after passing the exam. However, this time frame can vary depending on the number of applicants taking the exam at any given time.

The cost of obtaining certification through ASCE’s Construction Quality Management for Contractors program varies depending on whether or not you are an ASCE member. For non-members, there is a $200 fee associated with taking the exam; however, members receive a discounted rate of $150 per exam attempt.

7. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Bridge Inspection Certification

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Bridge Inspection Certification is a certification program that provides bridge inspectors with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform bridge inspections in accordance with AASHTO standards. The certification program is designed to ensure that bridge inspectors are properly trained and qualified to inspect bridges for safety and structural integrity.

In order to obtain AASHTO Bridge Inspection Certification, applicants must complete an approved training course which covers topics such as bridge inspection methods, safety protocols, and applicable codes. The training course typically takes between 40-60 hours to complete. After completing the course, applicants must pass an exam administered by AASHTO in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining AASHTO Bridge Inspection Certification varies depending on the provider of the training course. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$1,000 depending on the length of the program and other factors.

8. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Protection Systems Inspector Certification

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Protection Systems Inspector Certification is a certification program that is designed to provide an individual with the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, test, and maintain fire protection systems. The NFPA Fire Protection Systems Inspector Certification is a three-level program that requires an individual to pass exams at each level in order to receive the certification.

Level I: This level of certification requires the successful completion of two exams. The first exam covers general fire protection principles and practices, while the second exam focuses on specific fire protection systems. To be eligible for this level of certification, individuals must have at least one year of experience in the field of fire protection systems inspection or maintenance.

Level II: This level of certification requires the successful completion of four exams. These exams cover topics such as sprinkler system design, water supply calculations, testing and maintenance requirements, and other related topics. To be eligible for this level of certification, individuals must have at least two years of experience in the field of fire protection systems inspection or maintenance.

Level III: This level of certification requires the successful completion of five exams covering topics such as advanced sprinkler system design, special hazard suppression systems, building construction principles related to fire safety, and other related topics. To be eligible for this level of certification, individuals must have at least three years of experience in the field of fire protection systems inspection or maintenance.

It typically takes approximately 6 months to complete all three levels of NFPA Fire Protection Systems Inspector Certification. In order to get certified, individuals must register with NFPA and pay a fee which varies depending on which country you are from and which type(s) of certifications you are seeking (Level I – III). After registering with NFPA, individuals can then take their exams either online or through a proctored testing center near them.

The cost for NFPA Fire Protection Systems Inspector Certification varies depending on which country you are from and which type(s)of certifications you are seeking (Level I – III). Generally speaking however it can range anywhere from $100 - $1,200 USD depending on your location and number/type(s)of certifications sought after.

9. International Firestop Council (IFC) Firestop Inspector Certification

The International Firestop Council (IFC) Firestop Inspector Certification is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to inspect firestop systems in commercial and residential buildings. This certification is designed for professionals who are responsible for ensuring that firestop systems are installed correctly and meet all applicable codes and standards.

It typically takes about four to six weeks to complete the IFC Firestop Inspector Certification program, depending on the individual’s availability. The program consists of both online and in-person components, including a comprehensive exam. In order to obtain the certification, applicants must successfully pass the exam as well as complete all other requirements of the program.

To get started with the IFC Firestop Inspector Certification program, applicants must first register on the IFC website. After registering, they will be given access to an online training course which covers topics such as firestopping principles, inspection techniques, code compliance, and more. After completing this course, applicants will then need to attend an in-person training session where they will receive hands-on instruction from experienced instructors. They will also have the opportunity to take a practice exam before taking the final exam.

The cost of obtaining the IFC Firestop Inspector Certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This cost includes registration fees for both online and in-person components of the program as well as any additional materials or fees required for completion of the certification process.

10. American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Certified Professional Inspector

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Certified Professional Inspector is a professional certification that demonstrates a home inspector's knowledge and experience in the field. It is the most widely recognized and respected home inspection credential in the United States.

To become an ASHI Certified Professional Inspector, applicants must meet certain qualifications and pass an exam administered by ASHI. The qualifications include having completed at least 250 fee-paid inspections, having performed inspections for at least two years, and being a member of ASHI in good standing.

In order to take the exam, applicants must first complete an online application and submit it to ASHI along with the appropriate fees. Once approved, applicants will be emailed instructions on how to register for the exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on topics such as building systems, safety standards, reporting requirements, legal issues, and ethics.

The cost of becoming an ASHI Certified Professional Inspector varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of ASHI. If you are not currently a member of ASHI, then you will need to pay both the membership fee ($175) and the certification fee ($250). If you are already an ASHI member in good standing then you will only need to pay the certification fee ($250).

It typically takes around six weeks from when you apply until when you receive your results from taking the exam. However, this timeline can vary depending on how quickly your application is processed and how quickly your test results are received.

11. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Renovator Certification

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Renovator Certification is a certification program that requires contractors and other professionals to be trained in lead-safe work practices when working on homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978. This certification was created to protect people from potential exposure to lead-based paint during renovations and remodeling activities.

To obtain the EPA Lead Renovator Certification, individuals must complete an approved EPA training course. The course typically takes 8 hours to complete and covers topics such as identifying lead-based paint hazards, containing lead dust during renovation activities, cleaning up after renovation activities, and disposing of lead-based paint debris properly.

Individuals can find an approved EPA training provider by visiting the EPA website or searching for “Lead Safe Certified Firm” in their area. The cost of the training varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $150-$250. After completing the training course, individuals will receive a certificate of completion that they can use to apply for their EPA Lead Renovator Certification.

Once an individual has obtained their certification, it is valid for five years before they need to renew it by taking another 8 hour refresher course.

Do You Really Need a Construction Inspector Certificate?

The short answer is it depends. If you are working in a construction industry, having a Construction Inspector Certificate can be beneficial. It will demonstrate to your employer that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to do the job correctly and safely. It can also give you an edge over other applicants when looking for a job or promotion.

However, if you are not working in the construction industry, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain a Construction Inspector Certificate. In this case, it could simply be a matter of personal preference or career goals. If you want to further your professional development and gain more knowledge about construction inspection, then obtaining a certificate might be beneficial.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue a Construction Inspector Certificate will depend on your individual situation and career goals. It’s important to research all of your options before making any decisions so that you can make an informed choice that best suits your needs.

Related: Construction Inspector Resume Examples

FAQs About Construction Inspector Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a certified construction inspector?

Answer: You will need to have at least a high school diploma or GED, and either an associate’s degree in construction management, civil engineering technology, or a related field; or five years of experience in the construction industry.

2. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The time frame for completion of certification can vary depending on the certifying organization. In general, it typically takes between one and two years to complete the necessary coursework and exams required for certification.

3. What types of certifications are available?

Answer: There are various levels of construction inspector certification available from different organizations. Some common certifications include Certified Construction Inspector (CCI), Certified Building Inspector (CBI), and Certified Commercial Inspector (CCI).

4. What is the cost of certification?

Answer: Costs vary depending on the certifying organization and level of certification desired but generally range from $200-$600 in total fees. This includes registration fees, exam fees, and any other applicable costs associated with obtaining certification.

5. Are there continuing education requirements?

Answer: Yes, many certifying organizations require that you maintain your certification status by completing periodic continuing education courses as part of your renewal process.