How does the building department ensure that a builder who has obtained a permit builds according to code?

Building departments ensure compliance with building codes primarily through a structured inspection process. After a permit is issued, the builder is required to schedule inspections at critical stages of construction, such as foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and final occupancy. A government-employed or certified building inspector visits the site to physically verify that the work completed conforms to the approved plans and meets all applicable code standards. Work cannot proceed to the next phase until the current stage has passed inspection, ensuring continuous compliance throughout the project.

A. Inspections are performed by official, certified inspectors employed by the jurisdiction, not by industry peers, to ensure unbiased enforcement.

B. An affidavit is a sworn statement of intent to comply but does not serve as the actual verification or enforcement mechanism.

C. Progress reports are self-reported by the builder and lack the independent, official verification that a physical inspection provides.

1. Maryland Department of Labor, Building Codes Administration. The Maryland Building Performance Standards (MBPS) are enforced by local jurisdictions. As detailed in the Code Enforcement - Frequently Asked Questions, "Local jurisdictions are the primary enforcers of the building code in Maryland... This is typically accomplished through the plan review and inspection processes." This confirms that official inspections are the method of enforcement. (Source: Maryland Department of Labor website, Building Codes Administration section).

2. Ling, D. C., & Archer, W. R. (2018). Real Estate Principles: A Value Approach (6th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education. In Chapter 4, "Public Restrictions on Ownership," the text explains the role of building codes: "The process of enforcing building codes is accomplished through the building permit... At various stages of construction, the local building inspector visits the site to see that the construction is proceeding according to the codes." (p. 87, Section 4.2).

3. Montgomery County, Maryland, Department of Permitting Services. (2023). Inspections. This official government documentation outlines the process: "Inspections are required at various stages of construction to ensure the work is done in compliance with the approved plans and all applicable code requirements... It is the responsibility of the permit holder to schedule all required inspections." This exemplifies the standard procedure for Maryland jurisdictions. (Source: Montgomery County DPS official website, Inspections Information page).