Residential Inspector

** GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB
** The purpose of this class is to enforce residential building codes and construction standards within the Division of Building Codes and Inspections. The position conducts inspections and investigations of existing buildings and structures to identify unsafe, unfit, or unlawful conditions and initiates appropriate enforcement actions, including condemnation, closure, emergency repairs, or demolition when necessary. The position works closely with County staff, other agencies, property owners, contractors, neighborhood representatives, and the public regarding residential construction and property maintenance matters.
** SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
*
* Essential Functions:

* Comprehensively investigates and inspects, upon complaint or other knowledge, existing buildings and structures which may be unsafe, unfit, or unlawful.
* Firmly, fairly, and courteously enforces:  the condemnation and closing of unfit, vacant buildings or structures; the vacating, temporary safeguarding, and emergency repair of unsafe buildings or structures; and either the repair or demolition and debris removal of unsafe buildings or structures.
* Initiates and monitors expenditures and liens for:  the closing of unfit, vacant buildings or structures; the temporary safeguarding and emergency repair of unsafe buildings or structures; and the demolition and debris removal of unsafe buildings or structures.
* Issues compliance orders and notices of violation, posts properties with notices and condemnation placards, and maintains official records of complaints, investigations, communications, administrative actions, legal proceedings, and expenditures.
* Consults with property owners, neighborhood leaders, contractors, builders, trades craftsmen, and other customers in person, by telephone, and through correspondence.
* In concert with the Building Official, processes and participates in appeals to the Building Codes Board of Adjustment, regarding decisions, notices, or orders issued.
* Coordinates property maintenance inspections and administrative orders with other inspectors.
* Assists with the procurement of demolition and debris removal vendors and manages their contractual relationships with the County.
* In consultation with the Building Official, approves the use, and may require the testing, of alternative materials and methods of construction as deemed appropriate.
* Comprehensively inspects existing one and two-family dwellings, mobile homes, mobile home parks, structures, and multi-family dwellings to ensure compliance with property maintenance code for abatement.  All work shall comply with codes for building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fire safety, handicapped, and energy conservation codes, and County-approved plans, specifications, and standards.
* Firmly, fairly, and courteously enforces building code, zoning ordinance, floodplain management, and other land development regulations of Richland County.
* Keeps Building Official aware of problems discovered in field inspections. Coordinates building inspection activity with relevant County staff and external agencies.
* Assists customers with questions and interpretations concerning specific code sections and their application to general and particular situations.
* Attends and actively participates in staff meetings to improve code enforcement.
* Prepares and processes various records and reports, such as permits, inspections, time sheets, and utility releases.
* Performs building damage assessments after natural or other disasters.
* Seeks to improve and reform department policies, procedures, and workflow to achieve more successful results. Promotes efficient use of County equipment, materials, and supplies.
* Helps develop and maintain complete, accurate, and current paper records and computer databases.
* Assists other Building Inspectors as needed.
* Performs other duties as assigned.
** MINIMUM EDUCATION AND TRAINING
*** High School Diploma or equivalent vocational training in the field of construction.
* No prior experience required; experience in a construction-related field preferred.

-or
- * Any combination of education and experience that meets the requirements for performing the essential functions of this job.

Licenses/Certifications/Other:
* Must possess or have ability to obtain within eighteen (18) months Certifications from the International Code Council as a Residential Building Inspector, Property Maintenance Inspector, Electrical Inspector,…