Civil and Architectural Inspector Duties

Following is a clear interview guide for the Civil and Architectural Inspector (Quality Inspector) job duties and responsibilities  aligned with international standard, Saudi Arabia projects practices including the major client, Saudi Aramco, Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), NEOM & Red Sea. 

1 - Civil Inspector - Job Responsibilities

Civil inspector is responsible for ensuring that all the structural and infrastructure works are executed in accordance with the approved drawings (IFC drawings), project specifications, project/international standards, and approved ITPs.  

A - Pre-Construction & Planning  

• Review IFC drawings, method statements, ITPs, and material submittals.
• Verify approved project specification align with SAES, ACI, ASTM etc.
• Ensure the approved survey control points and benchmarks are established and verify with construction team. 
• Confirm availability and calibrated equipment at site to ensure the work align with quality requirements.

B - Earthworks & Substructure 

• Inspect excavation, shoring, dewatering, and trench safety. 
• Verify soil type, backfilling material, and layer thickness. 
• Witness field density test (FDT), plate load test (PLT) and proof rolling prior to pavement.
• Check compliance with project specifications, SAES-A-114 (Aramco Standard), ASTM D1557/D698.

C - Concrete Works

• Inspect formwork, reinforcement and embeds items (Anchor bolts, sleeves etc.) 
• Verify the rebars size, spacing, cover, lapping and cleanliness as per IFC drawings, and approved shop/red line drawings.
• Witness slump test (ASTM C143), temperature, sampling (concrete cylinder/cubes for testing) and casting.
• Monitor concrete pouring, vibrating, finishing and curing according to IFC and project requirements.
•  Review compressive strength test results (ASTM C39)

D - Structural Works

• Inspect foundations, columns, beams, slabs and retaining walls etc. 
• Verify the alignments, level, dimensions, and tolerance.
• Inspect precast concrete erection and grouting works.
• Check expansion joints, water stopper, construction joints & expansion joints as per the IFC drawings.

E - Infrastructure  Works (according to the projects)

• Roads, pavements, kerbs, stormwater & sewer networks.
• Manholes, culverts, pipelines, bedding, and backfilling.
• Asphalt works (sub-grade, sub-base, base, binder & wearing course) 

F - Quality Control & Documentation 

• Conduct the inspection as per approved ITPs & Checklist. 
• Conduct daily surveillance to verify the ongoing activities.
• Issue the Internal NCRs, if non-conformance observed at site.
• Raise daily inspection reports and MIR verification. 
• Inspect the Witness/Hold point with Client, Consultants, Contractors and testing laboratories according to the ITPs.

2 - Civil Inspector - Job Responsibilities

An Architectural Inspector  ensures all finishing and architectural works meet design intent, aesthetics, and functional requirements as the projects/client requirements. 

A - Pre-Installation Review

• Review architectural IFC drawings, finishing schedules, and mock-ups.
• Verify approved material submittals and samples as per the project specifications & IFC drawings. 
• Ensure coordination with MEP & Structural works.

B - Blockwork & Plastering

• Inspect block masonry alignment, level and plumb prior to final inspection as per ITPs.
• Check the mortar mix, joint thickness and curing at daily basis. 
• Verify plaster thickness, bonging, flatness and surface finishing.

C - Finishing Works 

• Inspect Tile, marble, granite, and stone installation as per IFC finishing schedules.
• False ceiling, gypsum board, and partition works.
• Painting works, surface preparation, primer, coats and DFT (Dry film thickness)
• Verify finishing tolerance and aesthetic quality of building.

D - Doors, Windows & Joinery 

• Inspection of installation of doors, windows, frames and hardware
• Verify dimensions, alignment, sealants and accessories.
• Verify glazing types, safety glass, and weatherproofing.

E - Waterproofing & Insulation

• Inspect wet areas, roof, basements, and balconies.
• Witness waterproofing application and flood tests.
• Verify thermal and acoustic insulation works.

F - External Work & Façade Design 

• Inspect façade systems, cladding, louvers, and architectural design of building according to IFC & project specification.
• Verify sealant, fixings, and expansions joints. 
• Check color, texture, and alignment.

and Overall conduct the final inspections before consultant / Client handover. 

3 - Common Responsibilities for  Civil & Architectural Inspector

• Ensure work compliance with project specifications & standards.
• Follow the HSE requirements during work. 
• Coordinates with QA/QC Supervisor/Engineer, Site Engineer and Consultants. 
• Maintain the inspection records and traceability at daily basis. 

4 - Interview Tip

Civil Inspector focuses on structural integrity and infrastructure compliance, while Architectural Inspector focuses on finishing quality, aesthetics, and functional performance.

Note: If you are looking for detailed guidance, interview preparation, or training material for Quality Inspectors, please contact us via email.