Plumbing Inspector

Overview

The NYC Department of Buildings is responsible for ensuring the safe and lawful use of buildings and properties by enforcing the NYC Construction Codes, Energy Code and Zoning Resolution. We facilitate compliant development with integrity, efficiency and professionalism. We are committed to becoming a premier municipal building organization, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all New Yorkers and making our city safer.

We are committed to improving our performance and developing procedures that are streamlined, understandable and transparent.

Under general supervision:

• Performs technical inspections of installations and repairs of plumbing, gas and fire suppression systems (including sprinklers and standpipes) for compliance with the NYC Construction Code, Zoning Resolution, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications. Such systems include underground, roughing-in, finish, equipment, fixtures, components, fire pumps and house connections and appurtenances.
• Responds to, reports and investigates accidents, incidents and complaints for conformity with NYC Construction Codes, Department rules, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications.
• Performs inspections to assess the condition and status of gas piping systems.
• Witnesses tests on drainage, water, air, gas, sprinkler, standpipe and fire pump for violations of the plumbing or fire suppression codes, or illegal practices.
• Studies drawings and other information to obtain details for inspections.
• Issues violations, summonses and stop work orders.
• Verifies licenses of onsite workers.
• When issuing violations, advises the recipient of the nature of the violating condition.
• Testifies as needed, including at ECB, depositions, and court.
• Maintains records and makes reports.
• Explains and enforces laws and rules relevant to the field.
• May assign, supervise, review and evaluate work of subordinates.
• May train subordinates in their duties.
• May review applications relevant to the field.
• May assist supervisor.
• May operate a motor vehicle in the performance of assigned duties.

Some of the physical activities performed by Inspectors (Plumbing) and environmental conditions experienced are: walking to and from inspection sites and during inspections; climbing and descending ladders and stairs to get to areas which must be inspected; standing for extended period of time; maintaining balance while walking over narrow walkways or areas that are elevated; climbing around and over various objects;

working in areas that may be damp, dusty, dark, smoky or acrid.

Inspectors may be required to work shifts including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.