Soft Skills, Footings and Foundations

Inspectors' Technique Suite - Module 1

You can understand the code and still feel unsure walking onto a site.

What should you be looking for?
How do you handle conversations with contractors?
What does a good inspection actually look like from start to finish?

These are the things most people don’t get taught directly, but they’re what make the biggest difference early on.

That’s exactly why RSM developed the Inspectors' Technique Suite in partnership with the Ontario Building Officials Association.

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Learn How to Approach Inspections with Confidence

The Inspectors' Technique Suite: Soft Skills, Footings & Foundations module focuses on how inspections are actually carried out.

It brings together the non-technical side of the job with practical inspection knowledge, so you can start to build confidence in both how you approach a site and what you’re looking for once you’re there.

- In-class instruction that explains the “why” behind inspections

- Learn from highly experienced inspectors

- Common issues, mistakes, and details that are easy to miss

What You'll Cover in This Module

Building Inspector Soft Skills

- Your role as a building inspector and how it fits into the larger process

- The importance of working as part of a team

- Communication and people skills on site

- Developing confidence over time and not expecting perfection right away

- Health and safety considerations

Inspection Process & Field Application

- Roles and responsibilities during inspections

- A clear look at the inspection process from start to finish

- Excavation and footing inspections

- Foundation and backfill inspections

Fee & Credits

$300 for OBOA members ~~$360~~

6.0 CPD credits

Get Your OBOA Member Discount

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take the Inspectors' Technique Suite?

New Building Inspectors

If you’re just getting started, this training helps you feel more comfortable in the field.

You’ll learn what to look for, how to approach inspections, and how to handle real situations that come up on site. It’s designed to give you a clear starting point so you’re not figuring everything out on your own.

Inspectors building confidence in the field

Maybe you’ve done a number of inspections but still feel unsure in certain situations.

This suite helps you develop a more consistent approach, so you’re not second-guessing what you’re seeing or how to respond.

Experienced Inspectors & Mentors

If you’re responsible for training others, this gives you a structured way to explain how inspections are actually carried out.

It can also help you refine your own process and make your approach more consistent across your team.

Municipal teams looking for consistency

For departments training new staff or trying to align inspection approaches across the team, this provides a practical, consistent foundation everyone can follow.

How long do I have access to the course?

You’ll have access to the course for your full access period, giving you time to move through the material at your own pace and revisit sections as needed.

1 course = 45 days

2 course bundle = 90 days

4 course bundle = 180 days

6 course bundle = 270 days

Will I see real inspections, or is it all classroom-based?

You’ll get both.

The module includes instructor-led lessons to explain key concept so you can see how inspections are carried out in practice.

Do I need prior inspection experience to take this course?

No. This course is designed to meet you where you’re at.

If you’re new, it will help you build a foundation and feel more confident on site. If you already have some experience, it will help you refine your approach.

I already understand the code. Will this still be useful?

Yes, and this is where most people see the biggest value.

Knowing the code and applying it on site are two different things. This module focuses on what that looks like in practice.

I’ve been inspecting for a while. Is this still worth it?

If you’ve ever had to train someone or explain your approach, it likely is.

Many experienced inspectors use this module to refine how they communicate and to build a more consistent way of mentoring newer staff.

Do I have to take the modules in order?

No. The modules are all designed to be standalone to suit inspectors with a variety of needs.

However, we offer bundle pricing if you'd like to take multiple.

Do I receive a certificate or credits?

Yes. A certificate of completion is provided, and CPD credits are available.

Who developed this course?

This course was developed by RSM Building Consultants in partnership with the Ontario Building Officials Association, with a focus on practical, field-based learning.

How long does it take to complete?

Each module has 2-4 hours worth of video content. Each module also includes quizzes and exercises. Feedback shows you can expect each module to take one day to complete.