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Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee recently signed SB 2100, a bill allowing developers to privatize building inspections. Now, construction companies won’t have to wait for city or county code officials or the state fire marshal to check their projects for building code violations. Instead, they’re free to hire the third party of their choice to get the job done. 

As expected, there have been mixed reactions to the news. Some building code official associations and many who work for municipalities have decried the decision, saying it could be detrimental to the safety of Tennessee citizens. However, others believe it’s great for all stakeholders. 

What’s Behind the Push for Privatizing Building Code Inspections?

If you were to ask the governor why signing the bill was such a priority for him, his answer would be “efficiency.” An analysis of wait times for inspections has revealed that home inspections can take anywhere from one and a half days (the current average in Nashville) to three business days (the usual in jurisdictions like Knoxville). The wait for inspections from the State Fire Marshal’s Office in rural areas is about the same. 

Previously, it was required that government officials working for the fire marshal and city and county code departments conduct all building code inspections and issue permits accordingly. While third-party inspections will still have to be reviewed by government officials, developers and Governor Lee, who spent 35 years in the construction industry, believe the law will reduce overall wait times. 

The Advantages and Drawbacks of Third-Party Inspections

Being able to call on a private third-party business for help when a building inspection is needed can streamline the construction process and keep the ball rolling for those working on a new building. In turn, this can save developers a lot of money on overall project costs. 

Developers have to secure financing for a project before they schedule a building inspection. Consequently, companies incur interest every day a project remains stagnant. With quicker turnaround on inspections, developers can save money and then pass those savings on to Tennessee residents. With the cost of living continuing to rise, this can provide some welcome financial relief. 

Still, some worry about building safety amid this new bill, claiming that those who work for a municipality have a duty to citizens to keep them safe. Third parties don’t necessarily carry that same sense of responsibility, opening the process up to bad actors looking to make a quick buck by approving buildings that aren’t safe. 

Paving the Way for New Opportunities in the Construction Industry

If you’re looking to start a career as a home inspector in Tennessee, now is the perfect time. With the construction industry booming and the demand for third-party inspections rising, there’s ample opportunity to be a part of this robust industry. 

For home inspectors, proper licensing and training is vital. By providing 24/7 access to courses written by industry experts, RocketCert can help you obtain the education you need to pass your licensing exams and begin an exciting new professional journey. Contact us to learn more about becoming a Tennessee home inspector today.