Under the general supervision of the Battalion Chief in Code Administration, the Property Maintenance Inspector verifies buildings, structures, and parcels are in compliance with building codes, fire prevention codes, and related ordinances of the City of Fairfax.

Work involves the inspection of existing buildings and exterior property to ensure maintenance is occurring to be in compliance with applicable building codes, fire codes, and ordinance requirements. Work is performed with considerable latitude for independent judgment and action within the framework of existing rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. This job/class works under minimal supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences. 

This position performs technical work in the enforcement of the Virginia Maintenance Code, Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code and applicable City of Fairfax Code requirements.

Responsible for the enforcement of regulatory codes and ordinances as a Commonwealth of Virginia certified Property Maintenance Inspector. Inspections are performed under both complaint and pro-active based systems.

Coordinates with the Zoning Inspector where violations and enforcement of the zoning ordinance is required.

Performs inspections related to the Residential Rental Occupancy program to ensure safe living conditions for tenants.

Conducts community pool safety inspections; schedules and conducts fire prevention, electrical, property maintenance, hazardous material, and cross-connection inspections.

Inspects for and manages the tall grass, weeds, and inoperable vehicle program.

Schedules inspections, enters, and maintains accurate data to provide results of inspections. Writes letters of code compliance or noncompliance, stop work orders, and notices of violations. Answers phone, text, and emails in a timely manner. 

Confers with property owners, tenants, and business owners in making corrections to ensure conformity with regulations and plans; advises the public on matters relating to building and fire prevention regulations. 

Investigate complaints of sub-standard and hazardous conditions in existing buildings and properties.

Provides assistance with public education events.

Testifies in court on code violation cases.

Performs related work as assigned. 

Is available by phone during the working hours of the City of Fairfax 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, and as needed.

The duties listed above are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent supplemented by specialized courses/training equivalent to completion of one year of college in code compliance or closely related field.

Requires one year experience as a building inspector; experience in code enforcement; or closely related experience preferred.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Considerable knowledge of the methods and techniques of code enforcement.

Considerable knowledge of the regulations and laws relating to building construction, fire prevention, and zoning.

Considerable knowledge of the requirements of the electrical, mechanical, and plumbing codes.

Considerable knowledge of possible defects and flaws in building construction and of effective corrective measures.

Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and engineering drawings.

Ability to inspect existing buildings for compliance with building maintenance and fire prevention codes.

Ability to inspect buildings and structures for structural stability in accordance with accepted engineering practices and to ascertain compliance with applicable codes in the various trade’s areas such as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing.

Ability to tactfully enforce codes and regulations using good judgement and discretion.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relation­ships with other employees, property owners, and the public.

Ability to communicate effectively, orally, and in writing.

Additional Desirable Qualification:

Three to five years of experience in the building trades as a contractor, foreman, or inspector; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills.

Special Certifications and Licenses:

Must obtain the certifications required by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development within one year of employment.

Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a safe driving record.

Requires certification as a Commonwealth of Virginia Property Maintenance Inspector. 

Successfully complete building inspector, plumbing inspector, mechanical inspector, and electrical inspector courses offered by Virginia DHCD within five years of employment.

Certification as a cross-connection and backflow inspector and fire prevention inspector may be required as needed by the Office of Code Administration.