ICC General Requirements Practice Exam

What should a special inspector do if they observe an apparent non-conformance?

1. Ignore it if the contractor insists it’s approved

2. Immediately report to the building official

3. Request to see written documentation of the approval

4. Notify the owner about the issue

The correct answer is: Request to see written documentation of the approval

The most appropriate action for a special inspector who observes an apparent non-conformance is to request to see written documentation of the approval. This step is vital because it ensures that any deviations from the approved plans or specifications are verified against formal documentation. It allows for a clear understanding of whether the contractor has legitimate approval for the non-conformance, which is crucial for maintaining project integrity. By seeking out written documentation, the inspector is performing due diligence to confirm the validity of the contractor’s claims. This process helps establish whether the observed issue is indeed a non-conformance or if it has been properly addressed through an approved amendment or change order. Assessing the situation based on documented evidence is essential for accurate reporting and decision-making. In contrast, overlooking the issue based on the contractor’s insistence overlooks the responsibility of the inspector to uphold building code compliance and project standards. Reporting immediately to the building official without first verifying the approval may cause unnecessary disruption and could lead to miscommunication. While notifying the owner is important for awareness, it does not substitute for the inspector's role in confirming the contractor's claimed approvals. Thus, obtaining the written documentation strikes the best balance of ensuring compliance while also protecting the interests of all parties involved.