ICC General Requirements Practice Exam

Which entity determines the final approval of special inspection activities?

1. The special inspector

2. The contractor

3. The building official

4. The architect

The correct answer is: The building official

The building official holds the authority to determine the final approval of special inspection activities. This role is vital in ensuring that construction projects adhere to established codes, regulations, and safety standards. The building official is responsible for overseeing the compliance of construction practices with local building codes, including the verification of special inspections that help ensure the quality and safety of the structures being built. While the special inspector conducts the inspections and provides reports, and the contractor is responsible for executing the construction work, neither of these entities has the ultimate authority to approve or disapprove inspection activities. The architect, on the other hand, plays a significant role in the design and possibly in overseeing certain aspects of construction but does not possess the final authority regarding inspection approvals. Therefore, the building official's role is crucial, as they ensure that all special inspections meet regulatory standards before granting final approval.