Tennessee approved a new law on May 1, 2024 that allows developers to hire third-party inspectors for construction sites. This law took effect on October 1, 2024. It aims to speed up construction projects and reduce backlogs in local government inspections.
What are its key provisions?
The law amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 68, Chapter 120 and Chapter 221, and Title 69, Chapter 3, Part 1 and covers the following provisions:
- Third-party inspectors: Qualified professionals can now inspect buildings and review plans. They must register and avoid conflicts of interest.
- Subsurface sewage systems: Third-party engineers can prepare and inspect these systems to meet local standards.
- Non-discharging systems: Third-party engineers can review and inspect specific wastewater systems.
- Wetland permits: Third-party wetland professionals can review applications to alter wetlands.
- Fees and appeals: Third-party service fees must match local authority fees. The law provides processes to appeal decisions.
In addition to these provisions covering third-party inspectors, the law also provides for faster inspections by mandating local authorities to inspect buildings within 30 days of a request.
Safety concerns
Not everyone is happy with the new law. Some within the industry say it could lead to a conflict of interest, as the third-party inspector is paid by a customer who wants approval. Some even say they are not convinced the new law will cut red tape. Whether the amendments will cut inspection time or cause shoddy building and safety accidents is still uncertain.
In the meantime, developers, construction companies and property owners must familiarize themselves with these changes in construction law.
