Special Inspection Manual: 2021 Edition

In extreme natural events such as earthquakes and hurricanes, the most common contributing factor to significant structural damage and building failure is construction that fails to comply with current codes, standards and design documents. Having specialized oversight and increased inspection frequency and duration during construction helps mitigate construction issues.

The Special Inspection Manual gives details for required special inspections and structural observation. The manual contains the requirements for special inspections required by the International Building Code and its referenced material standards with descriptions of the required inspections. The book also contains information on creating a special inspection overview program within a building department, including procedures and forms useful in running the program. Additionally, the Manual supports preparation for special inspection certification exams and assists in writing statements of special inspection.

The guidance in the manual is based on recommended practices and the consensus of building officials, design professionals and inspection and testing agencies. Duties and responsibilities of the special inspector, building official, project owner, engineer and architect of record, and general contractor are defined.