Why choose Building Inspection?

Chemeketa’s Building Inspection Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree - gives you the training to pursue certification and employment as a building inspector or plans examiner at the residential and/or commercial level. NOTE: This program does not prepare you for work as a residential real estate sales inspector.

The Building Inspection Technology AAS degree program can be completed in 21 months if you attend full-time (evening classes). However, there are entry-level skill expectations for reading, writing, and mathematics. The length of time you take to complete the program may depend on your skills in these areas. See Program Application for more information.

Chemeketa's Building Inspection Technology Certificate of Completion (one-year certificate) - This four-term certificate is designed for students with at least 5 years experience in a diverse construction background looking to move into an entry level inspector position. 

What will you learn?

Our building inspection AAS curriculum covers technical and general education courses as you work toward an Associate of Applied Science degree. Classes on building codes, plan review, inspection techniques and construction materials are complemented by courses in mathematics, communication skills and public relations.

Students completing the AAS will –

• Identify various jobs and associated work performed in a building department to gain employment
• Use appropriate interpersonal communication skills to achieve code compliance
• Perform inspections of buildings at various stages of construction and write correction notices and reports referencing current building codes
• Be prepared to take State of Oregon OIC, MHI, PCI and International Code Council (ICC) Certification tests
• Identify different building materials and methods of construction currently used in the building industry
• Read and interpret blueprints and assess their compliance to the various codes

Students completing the one-year certificate will - 

These classes provide students with knowledge and skills in commercial and residential building codes that are necessary for entry level inspector positions. Application of code knowledge in the inspection process is stressed through the four terms of the certificate program. 

What will you do?

Oregon needs certified building inspectors and plans examiners in public and private agencies. Over the past 20 years, through ups and downs in the business cycle, Oregon has averaged 20,600 building permits annually. The State of Oregon estimates the state will need hundreds more inspection professionals in the next five years. The average salary in Oregon ranges from $65-70,000 annually.