Training the Next Generation of City Building Inspectors
Kentucky cities are the backbone of the Commonwealth, responsible for many of the everyday functions their residents depend on, from public safety to infrastructure and housing. One essential but often unseen service is building inspection, which ensures that the places where Kentuckians live, learn, and work are safe and secure. However, cities across Kentucky — and the nation — face a looming shortage of certified building inspectors.
A Looming Workforce Challenge
The International Code Council (ICC) projects a significant shortage of certified building inspectors due to increasing retirements and limited interest among younger professionals. According to a 2025 report from the ICC, 56% of code enforcement officials plan to retire within the next decade, while the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected nearly 15,000 annual openings for construction and building inspectors over the next decade.
Demographic data also highlights the need to expand and diversify the applicant pool. The profession is nearly 90% male, 13% minority, and the average age exceeds 50. Without action, these trends could jeopardize cities’ ability to uphold essential safety standards and protect their communities.
Current Requirements to Become a Local Building Inspector
The Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (HBC) is required to administer a statewide program that was designed to ensure uniform compliance of state building policy by crafting certification regulations for testing, training, and continuing education. An individual must complete the requirements set forth in administrative regulations set by HBC before they can engage in any inspection-related activities under both the Kentucky Building Code and the Kentucky Residential Code. The various levels of certification are also outlined in the regulations. A candidate must submit an application form for entry into the Kentucky Building Code Inspectors Certification Program along with a $50 application fee. Additionally, the candidate must submit written confirmation that they meet the educational requirements, which require at least a high school diploma or a GED.
The candidate must also meet one of the following conditions:
- Two years' experience in a responsible, directly related construction position, such as a foreman, which required the ability to effectively read and interpret building plans and specifications; or
- Two years' experience in an architect's or engineer's office performing building design or drafting duties; or
- Graduation from a college or university with an associate degree in a design or construction-related subject; or
- Graduation from a college or university with a bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, fire science, or building technology.
- In terms of testing requirements, an applicant must complete testing modules administered by the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI). However, beginning in 2004, ICC certification exams have also been accepted. Finally, certified inspectors must submit proof of completing a minimum of twelve hours of continuing education training annually.
Learning From Other States
Other states have made successful efforts to tackle code enforcement shortfalls and costs that Kentucky can look for guidance.
Ohio has reformed its code to create a career pathway that would allow administrative staff to cross-train on the job, shadow higher-level inspectors, and pass exams to advance in certification as code inspectors.
Cincinnati, Ohio, piloted an Ohio Board of Building Standards-approved program titled the Building Inspector Academy that focuses on both learning construction and building codes and on-site inspection experience.
Minnesota provides competitive Building Official Training Grants to jurisdictions to offset an annual apprenticeship training program.
Other states, due to the shortage of local certified building inspectors, are permitting the use of third-party inspections or allowing local municipalities to choose that option.
These reforms lower barriers to entry, attract new talent, and improve career advancement opportunities.
Building a Path Forward for Kentucky
Kentucky should consider similar reforms to recruit, train, and retain the next generation of building inspectors. Reducing costs for certification, expanding access to early training, and creating apprenticeship opportunities can make this essential public safety profession more accessible.
KLC supports working with the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction to establish a Building Inspector Apprenticeship Program under the Kentucky Certified Building Inspector framework. This initiative would create a structured training pathway for entry-level inspectors, reduce the financial burden of certification, and ensure a sustainable workforce pipeline for the future.
By investing in common-sense solutions today, Kentucky can safeguard the integrity of its built environment and ensure that every city, large or small, has the tools and talent to keep its residents safe.
