Who is the first party the special inspector must notify upon finding a discrepancy during an inspection?

The special inspector plays a crucial role in ensuring that construction meets the approved design and applicable codes. When a discrepancy is identified during an inspection, the priority is to notify the contractor first. This is because the contractor is directly responsible for the work being performed on-site, and they have the authority to address and correct any issues immediately.

This procedure ensures that discrepancies can be resolved swiftly, allowing the construction process to continue without significant delays. The contractor can take corrective actions or make adjustments as necessary to ensure compliance with the project specifications and codes. By notifying the contractor first, the special inspector facilitates a direct line of communication that aids in maintaining the integrity and timelines of the construction project.

The other parties, such as the building official, design professional, or client, may need to be informed subsequently or in accordance with protocols, but the contractor is the first to be notified due to their hands-on role in the implementation of the project.