Under the New NYC Construction Codes, Special Inspections replace Controlled Inspections for all construction projects filed on or after July 1, 2008. Special Inspections may only be performed by Special Inspectors working for a Buildings Department-approved Special Inspection Agency. Special Inspections are similar in scope to Controlled Inspections, with a number of additions, and they are defined in Chapter 17 of the 2008 Building Code and the Department’s Special Inspections Rule.

A Special Inspector is a qualified individual employed by a Special Inspection Agency. Specific qualifications for the education, training and experience for each Special Inspection are set forth in the Special Inspections Qualifications. There are varying levels of experience and qualifications required for Special Inspectors depending on the type of inspections for which they would be responsible. There are also two categories of Special Inspectors – Primary Inspector/Inspection Supervisor and Supplemental Special Inspector (Alterative 1 or Alternative 2) who must work directly under the supervision of a Primary Inspector/Inspection Supervisor.

Special Inspectors must meet the qualifications (with a one-year grace period for obtaining required certificates), and the director of the Special Inspection Agency must certify that the individual and agency meet the qualifications prior to performing any Special Inspection. No registration is required at this time. Special Inspection Agency Directors must fill out the “Special Inspection Applicant” section of the new TR1.