Protecting the Town Like Family, One Inspection at a Time
From foundations to final walkthroughs, building inspectors help make sure every structure in Clayton is safe, sound, and built to last. During Building Safety Month this May, the Town is highlighting the dedicated professionals behind that work like Inspector Jose Perez, who has been serving the community for a decade.
Perez is a Level III inspector certified in all five major trades – building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and fire. He is also one of nine building inspectors who work for the Town and perform more than 11,000 inspections each year. For Perez, Inspections is not just a job. It is a calling.
“Every single building, every single house, every single inspection that I do within the Town of Clayton means something to me,” said Perez. “If I sign off on something, it is because I would feel safe sending my wife or my children inside that space.”
Each day begins early for the Inspections team. They meet in the morning, review the list of inspections, divide the workload, and head out across the Town to visit construction sites and properties. Their goal is simple: make sure the work meets local, state, and federal safety codes.
“We are the gatekeepers of a safe environment,” explained Perez. “We make sure that everything being built follows the proper rules. That way, everyone – residents, workers, and visitors – can feel safe.”
But there is more to the job than checking boxes. Perez and his fellow inspectors work closely with contractors, builders, and homeowners to explain why something must be corrected, not just that it must be fixed.
“We do not solely point out mistakes,” said Perez. “We teach people why it matters and how to make it right. That way, they learn, and the next time they do it better no matter where they are working.”
Learning is something the inspectors value, too. Because construction technology and safety standards are always changing, Perez and colleagues stay up to date with regular training and study. Many participate in ongoing trainings every month, going beyond the required sessions.
Perez believes the key to building safety is understanding that inspectors are partners and not opponents.
“Some people think we are there to stop progress,” he said. “But we are really here to protect our neighbors. Our job is to make sure the people doing the work are doing it the right way and the safe way.”
What makes Perez passionate about his work is not only the codes and rules. It is the people.
“Whether it is a home or a restaurant, I always think about the people who will walk through those doors. I want to be sure they can walk back out just as safely,” he said.
To learn more about the Inspections Department and how the team helps keep Clayton safe, visit townofclaytonnc.org/inspections.
