Blog

Everyone wants to live and work in structures that are safe and functional: That’s the purpose of building codes and regulations. Without enforcement, though, communities would have to rely solely on the goodwill of designers and builders.

To protect the public, building code officials are tasked with reviewing plans, issuing permits, conducting on-site inspections, and if necessary, enforcing regulations to ensure compliance. 

If you want to become a building code official in Massachusetts, you must obtain certification from the Building Official Certification Committee under the state’s Board of Building Regulations and Standards. 

There are two paths available to you: local inspector or building commissioner. Learn about these careers and the requirements for licensure.

Massachusetts Local Inspector

A local inspector reviews applications, inspects buildings, and enforces codes under the supervision of a building commissioner. Educational and work experience requirements for this certification include at least one of the following:

• 5 years of experience in the supervision of building construction or design
• A 2-year associate’s degree in a field related to building construction or design
• Any combination of education and experience that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability, as determined by the board

You must also pass state exams issued by the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI) or the International Code Council (ICC). There are several different exam combinations to consider.

Your first option is to pass these three NCPCCI exams:

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

Alternatively, you can pass the following four NCPCCI exams:

• 1B Building Inspector General Exam
• 1C Building Inspector Plan Review Exam
• 3B Fire Protection General Exam
• 3C Fire Protection Plan Review Exam

Your third option is to pass these three ICC exams:

• B1 Residential Building Inspector Exam
• B2 Commercial Building Inspector Exam
• F3 Fire Plans Examiner Exam

Passing any one of these combinations will fulfill the testing requirements for a local inspector certification.

Massachusetts Building Commissioner

Also referred to as an “inspector of buildings,” a building commissioner is the chief administrative officer within the building department for a given jurisdiction. 

This professional is responsible for administering and enforcing the state building code, including reviewing and issuing permits, inspecting buildings, enforcing zoning laws, and investigating safety concerns.

The educational and job experience requirements for this title include at least one of the following:

• 5 years of experience in the supervision of building construction or design
• A 4-year undergraduate degree in a field related to building construction or design
• Any combination of education and experience that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability, as determined by the board

You must also pass the same NCPCCI or ICC tests as you would to become a local inspector. 

Finally, there is one additional exam you must pass: the ICC Certified Building Official Exam, which includes these three modules:

• MG: Legal 
• MM: Management 
• BC: Building Codes and Standards

As an alternative to passing the ICC Certified Building Official Exam, you may submit an on-board training certificate proving relevant practical skills and knowledge.

Testing With Confidence

An exam prep program designed for working professionals is your best bet to pass the required exams for becoming a Massachusetts local inspector or building commissioner. Consider a program offering convenient 24/7 online access that allows you to learn at your own pace.

Is it time to take the next step in your career by earning a building code official certification in Massachusetts? Contact RocketCert now to get started.