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Building inspectors and plan reviewers protect their communities by ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations. Before you can become a building inspector or plan reviewer, you must obtain certification from the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction Division of Building Code Enforcement. 

What certifications are available, and what are the requirements to obtain them?

Building Inspector and Plan Reviewer Certifications Levels

Building inspectors conduct on-site inspections of structures to evaluate their integrity, fire safety, accessibility, and systems and components (electrical, plumbing, etc.). They may also review and approve construction documents, issue compliance letters and certificates of occupancy, and report violations. 

There are three different levels of building inspectors in Kentucky: Level I, II, and III. You will be authorized to inspect buildings only of the occupancy, type, and size associated with your level.

At Level I, inspectors are permitted to enforce the Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code for structures of the occupancy, type, and size assigned to local governments. 

At Level II, you may also inspect buildings of the occupancy, type, and size assigned to the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction.

Level III certification permits inspection of all buildings, regardless of size, type, or occupancy. Alternatively, you may choose to focus exclusively on inspecting one- and two-family dwellings.

Education and Experience Requirements

There are several requirements to obtain certification as a building inspector or plan reviewer. 

First, you must have a high school diploma or GED. You must also complete at least one of the following education or experience requirements:

• 2 years of experience in a position requiring reading and interpreting building plans and specs (such as a foreman)
• 2 years of experience performing building design and drafting in an architect’s or engineer’s office
• An associate’s degree in design, building technology, or a construction-related subject
• A bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, fire science, or building technology

Once you have completed one of these requirements, you must pass the relevant exam for your preferred certification.

Testing Requirements

Each level of building inspector certification requires that applicants pass several tests issued by the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI). A Level I building inspector must pass the following exams:

• 1A Building Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings Exam
• 1B Building Inspector General Exam
• 3B Fire Protection General Exam
• 4A Mechanical Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings Exam

In addition to these tests, a Level II building inspector must also pass the 4B Mechanical General Exam. 

A Level III building inspector must pass all tests for Level I and Level II, as well as the following:

• 1C Building Inspector Plan Review Exam
• 3C Fire Protection Plan Review Exam
• 4C Mechanical Inspector Plan Review Exam

To become a one- and two-family dwelling inspector, you must pass the 1A Building Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings Exam and the 4A Mechanical Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwelling Exam. 

NCPCCI exams are open book and feature 50 questions each. You have to answer at least 70% of the questions (35) correctly to pass, and you will have two hours to complete each test.

Preparing to Pass Exams

The right test prep program can help you pass exams on the first try. As a working professional, you want a program that offers 24/7 online access for convenient, self-paced learning.

If you’re ready to become a certified building inspector and plan reviewer in Kentucky, contact RocketCert now to learn more.