The bill amends the Construction Industries Licensing Act in New Mexico to enhance the regulation and oversight of private inspection companies. It introduces provisions for the licensing of these companies, allowing them to provide inspection services for governments, contractors, and homeowners, thereby improving building safety and compliance with laws and codes. The bill mandates the employment of certified building officials and clarifies the roles and responsibilities of inspectors and contractors, including the requirement for them to maintain evidence of responsibility. Additionally, it streamlines the inspection process by granting the division the authority to employ state inspectors or contract with private inspection companies.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a statewide inspector's certificate for individuals meeting certification requirements set by a nationally recognized code organization, valid for three years. It outlines the responsibilities of inspectors, including the ability to enter premises for inspections and disconnect unsafe installations. The bill also requires that once a contractor or homeowner begins the inspection process under a permit, they must continue with the same inspection provider until the final inspection is completed. It specifies that a contractor's license applicant must provide proof of responsibility, including a $10,000 bond for code violations, and sets criteria for private inspection company licenses, ensuring that they employ certified building officials and adhere to relevant rules. These changes aim to enhance accountability and compliance with construction standards in New Mexico.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 60-13-1.1, 60-13-8, 60-13-11, 60-13-32, 60-13-42, 60-13-44, 60-13-45, 60-13-49