The International
Code Council recently published “
Recommended Practices for Remote Virtual Inspections,” a guideline document that
governmental jurisdictions should consider for an effective and consistent
remote virtual inspections program. The publication is based on study, research
and discussions from the Code Council’s membership (including responses to an
earlier Code Council survey of U.S. code officials on COVID-19 response),
partners and industry experts.
Remote virtual inspections use visual or electronic aids that allow
inspectors to observe specific construction projects, products or materials
from a distance. These remote inspections are beneficial when the materials or
buildings are inaccessible, in dangerous environments, or in other
circumstances, prevent an in-person inspection. Given the challenges and
limited financial resources available for building departments as cited in the
Code Council’s ongoing survey of U.S. code officials response to the pandemic, the implementation of
remote virtual inspections can also save jurisdictions time and money as there
is no longer a need for inspectors to travel to and from sites.
A clear understanding
of the requirements for remote inspections and regular communication throughout
the process by all parties involved is paramount to a successful inspection.
Best practices that encompass scheduling, customer preparation, jobsite
identification, results and record maintenance are laid out in step-by-step
format within the publication.
“With a properly implemented remote virtual inspections program, building
safety professionals can overcome the variety of challenges brought on by the
pandemic and continue providing services to keep buildings safe and resilient,”
said Code Council CEO Dominic Sims, CBO. “While this practice has
popularized in the midst of COVID-19 social distancing, remote virtual
inspections are likely to become a routine tool for the future.”
The Code Council welcomes comments and feedback to improve future editions
of the remote virtual inspections publication. Submit feedback at www.iccsafe.org/RVI.
In addition, the Code Council’s CommunityDevelopment Solutions (CDS) will soon offer remote virtual inspection
services. CDS offers software solutions that allow building departments and
code enforcement officers to streamline and track information associated with
the inspection and compliance process.
For more information, check out these resources: