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Special Inspections

Special inspections are conducted during construction to verify that work was performed in accordance with approved plans and specifications. Special inspections must be performed by special inspectors on behalf of a registered special inspection agency.

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Special Inspectors & Special Inspection Agencies

Special Inspector

Qualified individual employed by a Special Inspection Agency. View Special Inspector Qualifications.

Certification

Special Inspectors must have all required certificates as required in Appendix A of the Special Inspection Rule.

Special Inspection Agency

Agency performing special inspections defined by Chapter 17 of the Building Code.

Registration

In accordance with 1 RCNY §101-06, agencies performing special inspections must be registered with the Department.

Accreditation

Class 1 Special Inspection Agencies must be accredited by the International Accreditation Service, Inc. (IAS) or an equivalent accreditation agency accrediting to ASTM E329-07. Special Inspection Agencies must obtain accreditation for all Class 1 inspections by May 13, 2013. Please view the List of Recognized Accrediting Bodies.

Insurance Requirements

  1. Professional liability/Errors and Omissions Insurance Policy for a minimum of $500,000 (occurrence based), for the term of the registration.
  2. Insurance required by the provisions of the New York State Workers' Compensation and Disability Law. All Special Inspection Agencies must have workers’ compensation insurance or a waiver.
  3. General liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence is already required for licensed trades.

*Exception:*
Agencies whose Director is not a registered Design Professional and limited to performing inspections of the:

  • Fuel-oil storage and piping
  • Fire alarm tests
  • Sprinkler systems
  • Standpipe systems
  • Emergency power systems
  • Site storm drainage disposal and detention system installation

Structure

A Special Inspection Agency must have one full-time primary Director and can have up to four alternative full-time Directors. The Directors must not be an employee of any other Agency that provides Special Inspection or testing services.

  • Fuel oil storage and piping
  • Fire alarm tests
  • Standpipe systems
  • Sprinkler systems
  • Emergency power systems

These Agencies may have a Director who satisfies the requirements of Inspection Supervisor for such tests and inspections as set forth in the qualifications.

Small Projects

A registered design professional with relevant experience may perform most Special Inspections in connection with the construction or alteration of Occupancy Group R-3 buildings, three stories or less in height. Additional qualifications are needed to perform Special Inspections in connection with excavation and foundation activities.

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