special inspection
WH Engineering delivers reliable, ICC-certified special inspection services that ensure every structural element is built exactly as designed — safe, compliant, and built to last. Our certified inspectors provide the on-site oversight and documentation that critical construction phases demand. With a detail-oriented, client-focused approach, we catch issues early and communicate clearly — so contractors, owners, and design professionals can move forward with confidence.
What is special inspection?
Special inspection is a mandatory quality assurance process governed by the International Building Code (IBC) Chapter 17. Per IBC Section 1704.2, special inspections and tests are required to verify that construction work on critical structural elements is performed in accordance with approved construction documents, applicable standards, and code requirements. These inspections are performed by an approved agency and are in addition to — not a replacement for — the standard inspections conducted by the building official under IBC Section 110.
When and why is special inspection needed?
Per IBC Section 1705, special inspections are required for specific types of construction including structural steel, high-strength bolting, concrete, masonry, and soils, among others. They are also required for structures classified as Risk Category III or IV, high-rise buildings, and structures assigned to higher Seismic Design Categories (IBC Section 1704.6.1). Special inspections cannot be waived without building official approval — failure to provide them can result in stop-work orders, permit violations, or failed final inspections.
Who qualifies as a special inspector?
Per IBC Section 1704.2.1, prior to the start of construction, the approved agency must provide written documentation to the building official demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special inspectors. The IBC also permits the registered design professional in responsible charge — and engineers of record involved in the design — to act as an approved agency and perform special inspections for the work they designed, provided they qualify as special inspectors. At WH Engineering, our inspectors hold ICC Special Inspector certifications in the relevant disciplines, meeting and exceeding the IBC's qualification requirements.
What does a special inspector do?
Per IBC Section 1704.2.4, an approved agency must keep records of all special inspections and tests and submit reports to both the building official and the registered design professional in responsible charge. The reports must confirm whether the inspected work conforms to the approved construction documents. Any discrepancies must be brought to the contractor's immediate attention — and if not corrected, escalated to the building official and design professional. A final report documenting all required inspections, tests, and correction of discrepancies must be submitted prior to project completion.
What can WH Engineering's special inspection services offer?
WH Engineering provides comprehensive inspection coverage for structural steel construction — including review of approved plans and submittals, material identification and sampling, high-strength bolting verification (storage, pre-installation checks, tension testing, and tightening sequence), structural steel framing observation, spray-applied fireproofing inspection, and base plate inspection. Throughout the project, we submit progress reports and a final summary report to the engineer of record and building official confirming conformance with approved plans and code requirements, with any non-conforming items promptly escalated to the contractor, design team, and building official as required.
Why choose WH Engineering for special inspection?
WH Engineering is uniquely qualified as both a PE-licensed structural engineering firm and an ICC-certified special inspection provider. Under IBC Section 1704.2.1, the registered design professional in responsible charge is expressly permitted to act as the approved agency — and that is exactly what WH Engineering offers. When our inspector identifies a field condition that doesn't match the approved plans, we have the structural engineering authority to evaluate it, communicate with the design team, and provide immediate, technically sound guidance. You don't just get an inspector — you get a licensed structural engineer on your side, from approved plans to final inspection report.
Contact us
Ready to move your project forward? Reach out today and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours.
Marietta, GA
Tel) 404-590-5311
Email) wcho@wh-structure.com