ICC institutes teach residential inspections, permitting

Permitting and inspections are among the main duties of building departments. To successfully perform their jobs, inspectors, code officials, permit technicians and other building department staff need to be aware of many provisions in the International Building and Residential Codes. Building department staff can improve their permitting and inspection skills by attending the International Code Council Residential Inspection Institute and the first-ever Permit Tech Institute.

The Residential Inspection Institute, March 19-23, in Austin, Texas, offers a step-by-step process for performing effective residential building, mechanical, plumbing and electrical inspections, and offers tips to avoid costly mistakes. Participants will learn inspection steps vital to confirming that a residence complies with the 2006 International Residential Code.

The Permit Tech Institute is March 27-29 in Overland Park, Kansas. Cosponsored by the Kansas City Metro Association of Permit Technicians, the Permit Tech Institute focuses on customer service and construction development skills needed to perform the duties of a permit technician. Topics include strategies for providing exceptional customer service, general laws specific to code enforcement, fundamentals of the plan review process and calculating fees.

Both institutes offer education from highly recognized experts in the field, and allow attendees to interact, network, gain valuable insight and share experiences with their peers. Participants also can earn continuing education units (CEUs), AIA learning units (LUs) and health, safety and welfare credit (HSW credit). All attendees receive comprehensive manuals to reference during the event and to use as a resource back on the job.

To register for the Residential Inspection Institute or the Permit Tech Institute online, click here or call 1-888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233), ext. 33818.

The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.