NC H865

Authorizes private commercial inspectors certified under Article 9C of Chapter 143 to conduct inspections of commercial buildings and structures for State Building Code compliance, excluding boilers, elevators, and final fire inspections.

Requires private commercial inspectors to obtain certification by passing an examination and registration with the Board, with five inspector types available: building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and fire inspectors at various proficiency levels.

Allows permit holders to contract with private commercial inspectors and reduces local government permit fees by 80% for projects using private inspectors, with local governments retaining 20% as administrative costs.

Requires private commercial inspectors to provide payment bonds or insurance coverage equal to 125% of estimated inspection costs and establishes immunity from liability except for intentional or willful and wanton misconduct.

Becomes effective October 1, 2021 for certification provisions and January 1, 2022 for building permit applications.