Understanding and conceptualizing inspections in the context of building permits

Purpose This study addresses the current knowledge gap in planning and executing building permit-related inspections, which are essential for ensuring safety, legality and compliance with building regulations. The complexity of these inspections arises from their multidisciplinary nature and the variability of inspection processes across different jurisdictions. Design/methodology/approach The research employs a systematic approach that combines desk research, literature review and expert interviews conducted across different countries. This mixed-methods approach enables the development of a conceptual framework that organizes the inspection processes into clear categories of responsibilities, processes and characteristics. Findings The study identifies and formalizes key elements of building permit-related inspections, including diverse national or jurisdictional contexts, processes, inspector management and inspection categorization, before synthesizing them into a comprehensive conceptual framework. This framework illustrates the complex relationships between the different aspects of inspections, providing a structured method to effectively manage these complexities. Originality/value This research contributes to the fields of construction management and building permitting by bridging theoretical knowledge and practical applications in the realm of construction inspections. By synthesizing dispersed knowledge into one coherent framework, the study establishes a theoretical foundation that enhances the efficiency and transparency of building inspections globally. The research also provides significant insights that will aid in the digital transformation of the building inspection processes that are crucial for compliance and quality assurance in the construction industry.