ICC Permit Technician Practice Exam

Which option describes the role of deputies as per the IBC?

1. They oversee private inspections

2. They enforce local codes

3. They conduct inspections independently

4. They assist the Building Official

The correct answer is: They assist the Building Official

The role of deputies according to the International Building Code (IBC) is to assist the Building Official in their duties. This assistance can encompass a range of tasks, including helping with inspections, administrative tasks, and managing specific aspects of the building code enforcement process. Deputies are typically designated by the Building Official to perform functions that facilitate code compliance and the overall inspection process. This role is essential because it allows the Building Official to effectively manage their responsibilities while ensuring that projects are inspected safely and efficiently. Deputies may have specific expertise or focus areas, which makes them valuable resources for the Building Official and the community they serve. In contrast, the other options imply more independent or alternate roles that are not typically assigned to deputies as per the IBC. For instance, overseeing private inspections or enforcing local codes suggest a level of authority or independence that falls outside the supporting framework intended for deputies. Conducting inspections independently also misaligns with the definition of deputies, as their role is fundamentally collaborative, functioning under the direction and authority of the Building Official rather than operating autonomously.