Learn about the role of a building inspector

Government of Yukon building inspectors ensure that building designs and construction meet the minimum National Building Code requirements.

At each stage of construction, building inspectors ensure National Building Code requirements are followed by:

• reviewing designs before construction; and
• conducting field visits during construction.

Third-party impartiality and reviewing plans

Yukon government building inspectors act as third parties. They have no direct interest in the construction of a building, focusing solely on ensuring that National Building Code rules are met.

Building inspectors may be asked to review a method to correct an identified deficiency, but they cannot supply or recommend solutions.

Answering relevant questions

Building inspectors may answer questions relating to the Building Standards Act and Regulations and National Building Code, including:

• which section of the National Building Code the project falls under;
• clarifying a meaning of a particular sentence in the National Building Code;
• confirming that a specific requirement of the National Building Code needs to be addressed; or
• confirming that a particular design meets National Building Code requirements.

Architects and Engineers

The building inspector may request detailed architectural designed drawings for all or part of a project. If this happens, you will need to hire an architect or engineer.

This can happen if:

• the project is a Part 3 building;
• a Part 9 building design goes beyond Part 9 limitations; or
• the project is complex.

Depending on the project’s complexity, you may have to hire an architect or engineer of record to provide stamped drawings, a Letter of Assurance of Professional Design and Field Review, and conduct field visits. Or you may only need the architect or engineer to stamp a design and answer any questions the owner may have.

Note: Before hiring any engineer, confirm that they are a member in good standing with the Association of Professional Engineers of Yukon.