ICC Permit Technician Practice Exam

When inspecting for violations, building officials should also check nearby locations to avoid allegations of what kind of enforcement?

1. Selective

2. Discretionary

3. Discriminatory

4. Arbitrary and capricious

The correct answer is: Discriminatory

The correct answer highlights the importance of fairness and impartiality in the enforcement of building codes and regulations. When building officials conduct inspections for violations, they must ensure that their actions are consistent and non-biased. By checking nearby locations, officials can establish a clear standard of enforcement that applies uniformly across similar situations. This practice helps to prevent the perception or allegation of discriminatory enforcement, which can occur if certain properties are scrutinized more harshly than others without just cause. Discriminatory enforcement refers to the uneven application of laws or codes based on factors such as race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. If building officials fail to consider nearby locations during inspections and treat some properties differently, it may lead to claims that they are targeting specific groups or individuals, undermining public trust in the enforcement process. Thus, by ensuring that inspections are consistent across similar properties, building officials support equitable enforcement and guard against potential discrimination claims.