ICC General Requirements Practice Exam

What kind of items do special inspectors look for during their inspections?

1. Only major construction faults

2. Defective materials and poor workmanship

3. Minor aesthetic issues

4. General compliance with building codes

The correct answer is: Defective materials and poor workmanship

Special inspectors focus on identifying defective materials and poor workmanship during their inspections because these factors significantly impact the safety and integrity of a construction project. Their role is to support the primary inspector by monitoring specific aspects of construction to ensure that they adhere to the predetermined quality standards and specifications outlined in the project documentation. Inspectors assess not just major issues, but also subtle defects that may compromise the building's overall quality and functionality. Detecting these defects early in the process allows for timely corrections and can prevent major problems down the line. While compliance with building codes and general construction standards is essential, the specialized nature of the work performed by special inspectors places a heavier emphasis on the quality of materials and the workmanship involved in construction. Thus, the focus on identifying defective materials and poor craftsmanship reflects the proactive approach necessary in construction inspections to uphold safety standards.