By: Lawrence O’Connor, PE, LS, F.NSPE; International Accreditation Service loconnor@iasonline.org Chapter 17 of the International Building Codes requires Special Inspections for building construction projects. The various States and larger jurisdictions have adopted the IBC. For example, in New York we have the NYSBC and in the five boroughs the NYCBC. In Pennsylvania there is a similar situation, the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code governs statewide and in Philadelphia there is an addendum. Each jurisdiction adopts the IBC in some form, usually with additional requirements per the local needs. It is important for the Professional Engineer or Registered Architect to understand their responsibilities both during design and construction to satisfy the mandatory requirements of Chapter 17. The building official has a responsibility for verifying the qualifications of all Special Inspectors. Both NYC and Philadelphia utilize accreditation of Special Inspection Agencies as a means of verifying the competency of Special Inspectors. The benefits of accreditation as a means of demonstrating competence are discussed.