Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

What authority does a building inspector have if an addition to a home does not meet standards?

1. The inspector must make sure the addition follows the Ontario Municipal Standards Code.

2. Final plan review is the last step in the permit process by the building department.

3. The inspector can issue a 'stop work' order.

4. The inspector requires property owner’s consent to enter for inspection purposes.

5. The inspector must document and report the issue without stopping work.

6. The final review is done by a senior municipality officer.

The correct answer is: The inspector can issue a 'stop work' order.

The authority of a building inspector to issue a 'stop work' order is based on the need to ensure that all construction complies with local building codes and regulations. If an addition to a home does not meet the established standards outlined in the Ontario Building Code or municipal regulations, it becomes crucial for the inspector to intervene to prevent any potential safety hazards or non-compliance issues that could arise if work continues. This 'stop work' order empowers the inspector to halt construction activities until the deficiencies are addressed. Doing so not only protects the integrity of the construction but also upholds public safety, as unauthorized or substandard building practices can lead to significant structural problems or endanger occupants. This action is fundamental to the inspector's role in enforcing building codes and protecting the community. In contrast, while ensuring that additions comply with codes is a part of the inspector's responsibilities, merely reviewing plans or needing property owner consent for inspections is not sufficient to address compliance failures. The final oversight by a senior municipal officer and documentation of issues without stopping work do not provide the immediate corrective action needed when standards are not met. Thus, the ability to issue a 'stop work' order stands out as the crucial authority applicable in this scenario.