Initial Perceptions of Remote Virtual Inspections in the Residential Construction Industry Sector

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic created a new set of restrictions and safety protocols for the residential construction industry. Many jurisdictions began placing social distancing practices on building inspectors, limiting their ability to visit the jobsite. This adjustment required residential contractors and inspectors to adapt to virtual inspections using videotelephony, photographs, or recorded videos. As this inspection method gains traction in the residential industry, questions arise regarding its benefits, drawbacks, and industry acceptance. This case study analyzes the perceptions and experiences of five separate homebuilders in Yolo County, California. Semi- structured interviews were conducted with five residential general contractors, transcribed, and thematically analyzed to discover reoccurring patterns and ideas. Throughout the interviews, six significant themes emerged including familiarity with the technology, time and cost impacts, applicability, accuracy, homebuilders’ preference, and future considerations. Based on the interviews, homebuilders believe the new technology has potential time and cost savings. There are some concerns with the technology's accuracy as virtual inspections can inhibit the inspector's visibility, in certain scenarios. However, all general contractors interviewed agreed they would like to see a hybrid system in the future that allows for virtual and in-person inspections, and also agreed that not all items are appropriate for remote inspections.