CBC · California Building Code

What contractor statements of responsibility are required?

If your project’s approved construction documents list main wind/seismic systems or components, the contractor responsible for that work must submit a written statement, before starting, saying they understand the special‑inspection requirements; special inspectors must also keep records and submit inspection/test reports to the building official and the registered design professional as required by the approved documents (see § 1704.4 and § 1704.2.4 ).

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

Under the CBC, any contractor who will construct a main wind- or seismic force‑resisting system, a designated seismic system, or any wind‑ or seismic force‑resisting component listed in the project's statement of special inspections must deliver a written contractor statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner (or the owner’s authorized agent) before starting that work. The statement must acknowledge the contractor’s awareness of the special requirements shown in the statement of special inspections (see § 1704.4 ). Separately, special‑inspection agencies and inspectors must keep records and submit inspection/test reports to the building official and the registered design professional at the frequencies required by the approved construction documents or the building official (see § 1704.2.4 ).

Requirements in detail

Who must submit a contractor statement

Contractor responsible for construction of:
- Main wind‑ or seismic force‑resisting system
- Designated seismic system
- Any wind‑ or seismic force‑resisting component that is listed in the statement of special inspections (See § 1704.4 .)

When the statement must be submitted

Prior to commencement of work on the system or component (See § 1704.4 ).
Note: the contractor statement is required only when it is specified on the approved construction documents (See § 1704.4 ).

What the contractor statement must contain

An acknowledgment that the contractor is aware of and understands the special requirements contained in the project’s statement of special inspections (See § 1704.4 ).

Related reporting requirement (special inspectors / approved agencies)

Approved agencies and inspectors must keep records of special inspections and tests and must submit inspection/test reports to:
- The building official, and
- The registered design professional in responsible charge,
- At the frequencies required by the approved construction documents or by the building official.
All reports must describe the nature and extent of the inspections/tests, the locations where they were performed, indicate compliance or non‑compliance with the approved construction documents, and identify discrepancies and their resolution status (See § 1704.2.4 ).

Decision matrix (quick reference)

Decision dimension	Value / Who	Where specified	Code Reference
Which contractors	Those building main wind/seismic systems, designated seismic systems, or listed wind/seismic components	Project statement of special inspections	§ 1704.4
When to submit	Prior to commencement of the work on the system/component	Construction start condition	§ 1704.4
Required content	A written acknowledgement of awareness of special‑inspection requirements	Contractor statement	§ 1704.4
Who receives it	Building official and owner (or owner’s authorized agent)	Delivery recipients	§ 1704.4
Inspection/reporting	Approved agencies/inspectors must keep records and submit reports to building official and registered design professional at frequencies required by the approved documents or building official	Reports must describe nature/extent, locations, compliance, and discrepancies	§ 1704.2.4
When contractor statement is NOT automatically required	Only required if specified on approved construction documents	Limits applicability	§ 1704.4

Exceptions & special cases

The contractor’s written statement is not universally required on every project — it is required only when specified on the approved construction documents. Do not assume it is always mandatory; confirm the project’s approved documents (See § 1704.4 ).
The frequency and routing of special‑inspection reports are determined by the approved construction documents or by direction of the building official; the code does not prescribe a single universal reporting interval (See § 1704.2.4 ).
The statement of special inspections itself (which defines what components are listed) is prepared under § 1704.3 and may be prepared by the registered design professional in responsible charge or, in limited cases, by a qualified person approved by the building official — that affects which systems/components are covered by contractor statements (See § 1704.3.1 ).

Common mistakes

Assuming the contractor statement is required on every job. It is required only when the approved construction documents specify it (See § 1704.4 ).
Submitting the contractor statement after work has begun — the code requires submission prior to commencement for the applicable systems/components (See § 1704.4 ).
Failing to address the correct recipients: the statement must go to the building official and the owner (or owner’s authorized agent) — not just the architect or inspector (See § 1704.4 ).
Treating the contractor statement as a replacement for the statement of special inspections or for special‑inspection reports — the contractor statement is an acknowledgement of awareness, while inspection agencies still must keep and submit records per § 1704.2.4 .
Omitting the acknowledgement of awareness of the special‑inspection requirements; the statement is not merely a signature but must reflect understanding of the special inspections listed in the project statement (See § 1704.4 ).

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A commercial project requires installation of a designated seismic system (a steel special moment frame) and the statement of special inspections on the approved drawings lists that system and several seismic components.

The contract documents require a contractor statement for work on the moment frame. Before the contractor begins steel erection, the steel contractor prepares a one‑page written statement acknowledging they understand the special‑inspection requirements listed in the statement of special inspections. The contractor delivers that statement to:
- The building official, and
- The owner (or owner’s authorized agent), all before the first steel is erected (see § 1704.4 ).
The approved construction documents require weekly special‑inspection reports for welding and bolt‑up connections and a final consolidated special‑inspections report at frame completion. The approved special‑inspection agency performs inspections, documents each visit, and submits:
- Weekly reports to the registered design professional and the building official (for example, 8 weekly reports if erection took 8 weeks), and
- A final report documenting all required inspections and the resolution of recorded discrepancies at a time agreed before work started (see § 1704.2.4 ).
If the contractor failed to submit the pre‑start statement and began work on Day 1, the building official could require stoppage or corrective filings because the CBC requires submission prior to commencement where specified (see § 1704.4 ).

Related provisions

Statement of special inspections content and preparation — § 1704.3
Reports / submittals required to the building official (other certificates) — § 1704.5
Structural observations requirement and submittal of observer statements — § 1704.6
Scope and requirements for required special inspections and tests — § 1705 (general reference)

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CBC § 2.4 High relevance — show source text
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

1704 A .4 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor responsible for the construction of a main wind- or seismic force-resisting system, installation of equipment/components requiring special seismic certification or a wind- or seismic force-resisting component listed in the statement of special inspections shall submit a written statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner or the owner’s authorized agent prior to the commencement of work on the system or component. The contractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the statement of special inspections. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The contractor’s statement is required only when specified on the approved construction documents.

1704 A .5 Submittals to the building official. In addition to the submittal of reports of special inspections and tests in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.4, reports and certificates shall be submitted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official for each of the following:
1. Reserved.
2. Reserved.
3. Certificates of compliance for equipment/components requiring special seismic certification in accordance with Section 1705 A .14.3.
4. Reports of preconstruction tests for shotcrete in accordance with ACI 318 and Section 1705A.3.9.2.
5. Certificates of compliance for open web steel joists and joist girders in accordance with Section 2207 A. 5.
6. Reports of material properties verifying compliance with the requirements of AWS D1.4 for weldability as specified in Section 26.6.4 of ACI 318 for reinforcing bars in concrete complying with a standard other than ASTM A706 that are to be welded.
7. Reports of mill tests in accordance with Section 20.2.2.5 of ACI 318 for reinforcing bars complying with ASTM A615 and used to resist earthquake-induced flexural or axial forces in the special moment frames, special structural walls or coupling beams connecting special structural walls of seismic force-resisting systems in structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F.
1704 A .6 Structural observations. The owner shall employ a registered design professional to perform structural observations. The structural observer shall visually observe representative locations of structural systems, details and load paths for general conformance to the approved construction documents. Structural observation does not include or waive the responsibility for the inspections in Section 110 or the special inspections in Section 1705 A or other sections of this code. Prior to the commencement of observations, the structural observer shall submit to the building official a written statement identifying the frequency and extent of structural observations. At the conclusion of the work included in the permit, the structural observer shall submit to the building official a written statement that the site visits have been made and identify any reported deficiencies that, to the best of the structural observer’s knowledge, have not been resolved.

[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 110 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.

SECTION 1705 A —REQUIRED SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
CBC § 3.3 High relevance — show source text
APPENDIX A—GUIDELINES FOR THE SEISMIC RETROFIT OF EXISTING BUILDINGS

[BS] A406.3.3 Shear wall schedule, notes and details. Shear walls shall have a referenced schedule on the plans that includes the correct shear wall capacity in pounds per foot (N/m); the required fastener type, length, gage and head size; and a complete specification for the sheathing material and its thickness. The schedule shall also show the required location of 3-inch (76 mm) nominal or two 2-inch (51 mm) nominal edge members; the spacing of shear transfer elements such as framing anchors or added sill plate nails; the required hold-down with its bolt, screw or nail sizes; and the dimensions, lumber grade and species of the attached framing member.

Notes shall show required edge distance for fasteners of structural wood panels and framing members; required flush nailing at the plywood surface; limits of mechanical penetrations; and the sill plate material assumed in the design. The limits of mechanical penetrations shall be detailed showing the maximum notching and drilled hole sizes.

[BS] A406.3.4 General notes. General notes shall show the requirements for material testing, special inspection and structural observation.

SECTION A407—QUALITY CONTROL

[BS] A407.1 Structural observation. Structural observation, in accordance with Section 1704.6 of the California Building Code is required, regardless of seismic design category, height or other conditions. Structural observation shall include visual observation of work for conformance to the approved construction documents and confirmation of existing conditions assumed during design.

A407.2 Contractor responsibility. Contractor responsibility shall be in accordance with Section 1704.4 of the California Building Code .

A407.3 Testing and inspection. Structural testing and inspection for new construction materials, submittals, reports and certificates of compliance shall be in accordance with Sections 1704 and 1705 of the California Building Code . Work done to comply with this chapter shall not be eligible for Exceptions 1, 2, or 3 of Section 1704.2 of the California Building Code or for the exception to Section 1705.13.2 of the California Building Code .

2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE APPENDIX A-49

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APPENDIX A-50 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

APPENDIX A

CHAPTER A5 – REFERENCED STANDARDS

(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
CBC § 17-5 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17-5

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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

1704.3.2 Seismic requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705.13 or 1705.14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the designated seismic systems and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspections or tests. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Where Section 1705.13 or 1705.14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the equip- ment/components that require special seismic certification and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspection or tests.

1704.3.3 Wind requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705.12 specifies special inspection for wind resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components that are subject to special inspections.

1704.4 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor responsible for the construction of a main wind- or seismic force-resisting system, designated seismic system or a wind- or seismic force-resisting component listed in the statement of special inspections shall submit a written statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner or the owner’s authorized agent prior to the commencement of work on the system or component. The contractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the statement of special inspections.

1704.5 Submittals to the building official. In addition to the submittal of reports of special inspections and tests in accordance with Section 1704.2.4, reports and certificates shall be submitted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official for each of the following:
1. Certificates of compliance for the fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies on the premises of an approved fabricator in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.1.
2. Certificates of compliance for the seismic qualification of nonstructural components, supports and attachments in accordance with Section 1705.14.2.
3. Certificates of compliance for designated seismic systems in accordance with Section 1705.14.3.
4. Reports of preconstruction tests for shotcrete in accordance with ACI 318.
5. Certificates of compliance for open web steel joists and joist girders in accordance with Section 2207.5.
6. Reports of material properties verifying compliance with the requirements of AWS D1.4 for weldability as specified in Section 26.6.4 of ACI 318 for reinforcing bars in concrete complying with a standard other than ASTM A706 that are to be welded.
7. Reports of mill tests in accordance with Section 20.2.2.5 of ACI 318 for reinforcing bars complying with ASTM A615 and used to resist earthquake-induced flexural or axial forces in the special moment frames, special structural walls or coupling beams connecting special structural walls of seismic force-resisting systems in structures assigned to Seismic Design Category B, C, D, E or F.
1704.6 Structural observations. Where required by the provisions of Section 1704.6.1, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall employ a registered design professional to perform structural observations. The structural observer shall visually observe representative locations of structural systems, details and load paths for general conformance to the approved construction documents.

CBC § 1704.6 High relevance — show source text

SECTION A407—QUALITY CONTROL

[BS] A407.1 Structural observation. Structural observation, in accordance with Section 1704.6 of the California Building Code is required, regardless of seismic design category, height or other conditions. Structural observation shall include visual observation of work for conformance to the approved construction documents and confirmation of existing conditions assumed during design.

A407.2 Contractor responsibility. Contractor responsibility shall be in accordance with Section 1704.4 of the California Building Code .

A407.3 Testing and inspection. Structural testing and inspection for new construction materials, submittals, reports and certificates of compliance shall be in accordance with Sections 1704 and 1705 of the California Building Code . Work done to comply with this chapter shall not be eligible for Exceptions 1, 2, or 3 of Section 1704.2 of the California Building Code or for the exception to Section 1705.13.2 of the California Building Code .

2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE APPENDIX A-49

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APPENDIX A-50 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

APPENDIX A

CHAPTER A5 – REFERENCED STANDARDS

(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	HCD	Col6	Col7	DSA	Col9	Col10	OSHPD	Col12	Col13	Col14	Col15	Col16	Col17	BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	1	2	1/AC	AC	SS	SS/CC	1	1R	2	3	4	5	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6
Adopt Entire Chapter	X			X	X
Adopt Entire Chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections that are listed below
Chapter / Section

The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE APPENDIX A-51

CBC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text
[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The exception is not permitted by DSA.

1704 A .3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:
1. The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.
2. The type and extent of each special inspection.
3. The type and extent of each test.
4. Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705 A .12, 1705 A .13 and 1705 A .14.
5. For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.
6. Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.
1704 A .3.2 Seismic requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .13 or 1705 A .14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the equipment/components that require special seismic certification and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspections or tests.

1704 A .3.3 Wind requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .12 specifies special inspection for wind resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components that are subject to special inspections.

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17A-5

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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

1704 A .4 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor responsible for the construction of a main wind- or seismic force-resisting system, installation of equipment/components requiring special seismic certification or a wind- or seismic force-resisting component listed in the statement of special inspections shall submit a written statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner or the owner’s authorized agent prior to the commencement of work on the system or component. The contractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the statement of special inspections. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The contractor’s statement is required only when specified on the approved construction documents.

1704 A .5 Submittals to the building official. In addition to the submittal of reports of special inspections and tests in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.4, reports and certificates shall be submitted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official for each of the following:
1. Reserved.
2. Reserved.
3. Certificates of compliance for equipment/components requiring special seismic certification in accordance with Section 1705 A .14.3.
4. Reports of preconstruction tests for shotcrete in accordance with ACI 318 and Section 1705A.3.9.2.
5. Certificates of compliance for open web steel joists and joist girders in accordance with Section 2207 A. 5.
CBC § 1704.5 High relevance — show source text
At completion of fabrication, the approved fabricator shall submit a certificate of compliance to the owner or the owner’s authorized agent for submittal to the building official as specified in Section 1704.5 stating that the work was performed in accordance with the approved construction documents.

1704.3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704.3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704.2.3.

Exception: The statement of special inspections is permitted to be prepared by a qualified person approved by the building official for construction not designed by a registered design professional.

1704.3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:
1. The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.
2. The type and extent of each special inspection.
3. The type and extent of each test.
4. Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705.12, 1705.13 and 1705.14.
5. For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.
6. Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17-5

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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

1704.3.2 Seismic requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705.13 or 1705.14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the designated seismic systems and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspections or tests. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Where Section 1705.13 or 1705.14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the equip- ment/components that require special seismic certification and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspection or tests.

1704.3.3 Wind requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705.12 specifies special inspection for wind resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components that are subject to special inspections.

1704.4 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor responsible for the construction of a main wind- or seismic force-resisting system, designated seismic system or a wind- or seismic force-resisting component listed in the statement of special inspections shall submit a written statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner or the owner’s authorized agent prior to the commencement of work on the system or component. The contractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the statement of special inspections.
CBC § 1703.6.2 Medium relevance — show source text
1703.6.2 Test and inspection records. Copies of necessary test and special inspection records shall be filed with the building official.

SECTION 1704—SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS, CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY AND STRUCTURAL OBSERVATION

1704.1 General. Special inspections and tests, statements of special inspections, responsibilities of contractors, submittals to the building official and structural observations shall meet the applicable requirements of this section.

1704.2 Special inspections and tests. Where application is made to the building official for construction as specified in Section 105, or 1.8.4, as applicable, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent, other than the contractor, shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work specified in Section 1705 and identify the approved agencies to the building official. These special inspections and tests are in addition to the inspections by the building official that are identified in Section 110.

[OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] In addition, the approved agencies shall provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work listed under Chapters 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25, and noted in the Test, Inspection and Observation (TIO) program as required by the Office.

The special inspectors shall act under the direction of the architect or structural engineer or both, and be responsible to the Owner. Where California Administrative Code Section 7-115 (a) 2 permits construction documents to be prepared under the responsible charge of a mechanical, electrical or civil engineer, special inspectors shall be permitted to work under the direction of an engineer in the appro- priate branch as permitted therein.

Exceptions:
1. Special inspections and tests are not required for construction of a minor nature or as warranted by conditions in the jurisdiction as approved by the building official.
2. Unless otherwise required by the building official, special inspections and tests are not required for Group U occupancies that are accessory to a residential occupancy including, but not limited to, those listed in Section 312.1.
3. Special inspections and tests are not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
1. The contractor is permitted to employ the approved agencies where the contractor is also the owner. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD. 5. [HCD 1] The provisions of Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 6 and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, commencing with Section 3000, shall apply to the construction and inspection of factory-built housing as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19971.
CBC § 2.5 Medium relevance — show source text
All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents . Discrepancies shall be brought to the immediate attention of the contractor for correction. If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official.

1704 A .2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication.

1704 A .2.5.1 Fabricator approval. Not permitted by DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC or OSHPD.

1704 A .3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705 A, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.3.

Exception: The statement of special inspections is permitted to be prepared by a qualified person approved by the building official for construction not designed by a registered design professional.

[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The exception is not permitted by DSA.

1704 A .3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:
1. The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.
2. The type and extent of each special inspection.
3. The type and extent of each test.
4. Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705 A .12, 1705 A .13 and 1705 A .14.
5. For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.
6. Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.
1704 A .3.2 Seismic requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .13 or 1705 A .14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the equipment/components that require special seismic certification and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspections or tests.

1704 A .3.3 Wind requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .12 specifies special inspection for wind resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components that are subject to special inspections.

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17A-5
CBC § 17-4 Medium relevance — show source text
1704 Special Inspections and Tests, Contractor Responsibility and Structural Observation. . . . . 17-4

1705 Required Special Inspections and Tests . . . . . . . . . 17-6

1706 Design Strengths of Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-19

1707 Alternative Test Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-19

1708 In-Situ Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-19

1709 Preconstruction Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-20

1710 Off-Site Construction [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] . . . . . . . . . . 17-21

CHAPTER 17A SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS. . . . . . .17A-1

1701A General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-3

1702A New Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-3

1703A Approvals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-3

1704A Special Inspections and Tests, Contractor Responsibility and Structural Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-4

1705A Required Special Inspections and Tests . . . . . . . . . .17A-6

1706A Design Strengths of Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-22

1707A Alternative Test Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-22

1708A In-Situ Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-22

1709A Preconstruction Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-22

1710A Off-Site Construction [OSHPD 1 & 4] . . . . . . . . . . . . .17A-23

CHAPTER 18 SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-1

1801 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-3

1802 Design Basis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-3

1803 Geotechnical Investigations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-3
CBC § 1703.5.3 Medium relevance — show source text
1703.5.3 Label information. The label shall contain the manufacturer’s identification, model number, serial number or definitive information describing the performance characteristics of the product, material or assembly and the approved agency’s identification.

1703.5.4 Method of labeling. Information required to be permanently identified on the product, material or assembly shall be acid etched, sand blasted, ceramic fired, laser etched, embossed or of a type that, once applied, cannot be removed without being destroyed.

1703.6 Evaluation and follow-up inspection services. Where structural components or other items regulated by this code are not visible for inspection after completion of a prefabricated assembly, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall submit a report of each prefabricated assembly. The report shall indicate the complete details of the assembly, including a description of the assembly and its components, the basis upon which the assembly is being evaluated, test results and similar information and other data as necessary for the building official to determine conformance to this code. Such a report shall be approved by the building official.

1703.6.1 Follow-up inspection. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall provide for special inspections of fabricated items in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.

1703.6.2 Test and inspection records. Copies of necessary test and special inspection records shall be filed with the building official.

SECTION 1704—SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS, CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY AND STRUCTURAL OBSERVATION

1704.1 General. Special inspections and tests, statements of special inspections, responsibilities of contractors, submittals to the building official and structural observations shall meet the applicable requirements of this section.

1704.2 Special inspections and tests. Where application is made to the building official for construction as specified in Section 105, or 1.8.4, as applicable, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent, other than the contractor, shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work specified in Section 1705 and identify the approved agencies to the building official. These special inspections and tests are in addition to the inspections by the building official that are identified in Section 110.

[OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] In addition, the approved agencies shall provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work listed under Chapters 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25, and noted in the Test, Inspection and Observation (TIO) program as required by the Office.

The special inspectors shall act under the direction of the architect or structural engineer or both, and be responsible to the Owner. Where California Administrative Code Section 7-115 (a) 2 permits construction documents to be prepared under the responsible charge of a mechanical, electrical or civil engineer, special inspectors shall be permitted to work under the direction of an engineer in the appro- priate branch as permitted therein.
CBC § 1703.4.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1703.4.1 Research and investigation. Sufficient technical data shall be submitted to the building official to substantiate the proposed use of any product, material or assembly. If it is determined that the evidence submitted is satisfactory proof of performance for the use intended, the building official shall approve the use of the product, material or assembly subject to the requirements of this code. The costs, reports and investigations required under these provisions shall be paid by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

1703.4.2 Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of products, materials or assemblies not specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research reports from approved sources.

1703.5 Labeling. Products, materials or assemblies required to be labeled shall be labeled in accordance with the procedures set forth in Sections 1703.5.1 through 1703.5.4.

1703.5.1 Testing. An approved agency shall test a representative sample of the product, material or assembly being labeled to the relevant standard or standards. The approved agency shall maintain a record of the tests performed. The record shall provide sufficient detail to verify compliance with the test standard.

1703.5.2 Inspection and identification. The approved agency shall periodically perform an inspection, which shall be in-plant if necessary, of the product or material that is to be labeled. The inspection shall verify that the labeled product, material or assembly is representative of the product, material or assembly tested.

1703.5.3 Label information. The label shall contain the manufacturer’s identification, model number, serial number or definitive information describing the performance characteristics of the product, material or assembly and the approved agency’s identification.

1703.5.4 Method of labeling. Information required to be permanently identified on the product, material or assembly shall be acid etched, sand blasted, ceramic fired, laser etched, embossed or of a type that, once applied, cannot be removed without being destroyed.

1703.6 Evaluation and follow-up inspection services. Where structural components or other items regulated by this code are not visible for inspection after completion of a prefabricated assembly, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall submit a report of each prefabricated assembly. The report shall indicate the complete details of the assembly, including a description of the assembly and its components, the basis upon which the assembly is being evaluated, test results and similar information and other data as necessary for the building official to determine conformance to this code. Such a report shall be approved by the building official.

1703.6.1 Follow-up inspection. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall provide for special inspections of fabricated items in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.

1703.6.2 Test and inspection records. Copies of necessary test and special inspection records shall be filed with the building official.

SECTION 1704—SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS, CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY AND STRUCTURAL OBSERVATION

1704.1 General. Special inspections and tests, statements of special inspections, responsibilities of contractors, submittals to the building official and structural observations shall meet the applicable requirements of this section.
CBC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1704 A .2.1 Special inspector qualifications. Prior to the start of the construction, the approved agencies shall provide written documentation to the building official demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special inspectors who will perform the special inspections and tests during construction. Experience or training shall be considered to be relevant where the documented experience or training is related in complexity to the same type of special inspection or testing activities for projects of similar complexity and material qualities. These qualifications are in addition to qualifications specified in other sections of this code.

The registered design professional in responsible charge and engineers of record involved in the design of the project are permitted to act as an approved agency and their personnel are permitted to act as special inspectors for the work designed by them, provided they qualify as special inspectors.

1704 A .2.2 Access for special inspection. The construction or work for which special inspection or testing is required shall remain accessible and exposed for special inspection or testing purposes until completion of the required special inspections or tests.

1704 A .2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections prepared by the regis- tered design professional in general responsible charge in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for construction documents review . This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.

[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 107.1 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.

1704 A .2.4 Report requirement. The inspector(s) of record and approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests. The inspector of record and approved agency shall submit reports of special inspections and tests to the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge at frequencies required by the approved construction documents or building official as required by the California Administrative Code . All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents . Discrepancies shall be brought to the immediate attention of the contractor for correction. If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official.

1704 A .2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication.

1704 A .2.5.1 Fabricator approval. Not permitted by DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC or OSHPD.

1704 A .3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705 A, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.3.

Frequently asked questions

Who must receive the contractor statement?

The contractor’s written statement must be submitted to the building official and the owner (or the owner’s authorized agent) prior to starting the listed work (see § 1704.4 ).

Is the contractor statement always required on every project?

No. The contractor statement is required only when it is specified on the approved construction documents; check the project’s statement of special inspections and the approved documents to confirm (see § 1704.4 ).

What must special‑inspection reports include and who receives them?

Approved agencies/inspectors must keep records and submit reports describing the nature/extent of inspections and tests, where they were performed, whether work conformed to the approved construction documents, and any unresolved discrepancies; reports go to the building official and the registered design professional, at frequencies required by the approved documents or the building official (see § 1704.2.4 ).

Can the contractor prepare the statement of special inspections?

No. The statement of special inspections is normally prepared by the registered design professional in responsible charge; in limited cases a qualified person approved by the building official may prepare it — but that is a separate document from the contractor’s statement of responsibility (see § 1704.3.1 ).

What happens if inspection reports show discrepancies that aren’t corrected?

Discrepancies must be brought immediately to the contractor for correction; if not corrected, they must be brought to the building official and the registered design professional before completion of that phase of work (see § 1704.2.4 ).

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Related in the CBC

Who prepares and submits the statement of special inspections?

What are special inspector qualifications, access and reporting requirements?

When is structural observation required and what does it include?

Process — Statement of Special Inspections, Reports & Responsibilities

California Building Code