Construction and building inspection services include lab or field testing, analysis and monitoring of structures and building materials such as foundations, septic and drainage systems, pavement, asphalt, concrete, wood, framing, soils and reinforcing or structural steel. Construction and building inspection services are used for municipal, county, and local government building projects, residential and commercial projects.

Construction and building inspection services are regulated by many different building codes and standards. The International Code Council (ICC) publishes building codes for construction  and building projects. Building inspectors must also comply with environmental standards, zoning regulations, contract specifications and other local ordinances.  A commercial building inspection service ensures that public buildings meet safety and health requirements, and adhere to environmental regulations for waste disposal or remediation. Home inspectors conduct inspections of new construction or restoration of homes, including assessing the plumbing, electrical, roofing, foundation, and septic system.

Construction and building inspection services providers may employ a variety of inspectors. Building inspectors validate the quality of structural materials such as reinforced cement and concrete, or structural steel. Reinforcing materials must meet specific standards to ensure the general safety of public and private buildings. Construction and building inspection services also inspect for fire safety, safety of electrical systems, and safe operation of elevators, escalators and other conveyance systems. Plan examiners ensure the building plans comply with codes and regulations and are suitable for the site chosen.

Construction and building inspection services also include public works, such as highways, bridges, dams, and sewer systems. A construction and building inspection service may specialize in excavations, grading, or dredging operations, or may evaluate the quality of asphalt and pavement used in highways and bridges. Inspectors may make visual assessments or use specific measuring tools such as survey instruments, metering devices, and tape measures.