Although both off-site construction and Remote Virtual Inspections (RVI) have been in use throughout the U.S. for some time, there is limited uptake, and there are many misconceptions surrounding the two topics. These resources provide a wide range of information for interested states and local jurisdictions, homeowners, contractors, code officials, and other interested building industry professionals.
Off-site construction is a construction method where some components are built at the building site and others are put together at an off-site factory and assembled at the building site. There are many benefits, including energy and time savings.
Remote Virtual Inspections (RVI) is an inspection method that allows inspectors to use technology to conduct inspections without having to be physically present at the building site. This can be particularly useful for off-site construction, but can also be used for solely on-site construction.
Off-Site Construction
Off-site construction is defined as construction of a building in which various parts are fabricated in a factory and transported to a prepared site for final assembly and installation. This method is in contrast to traditional site-built, also known as stick-built, construction in which the building materials are brought to the building site and erected on location.
Resources:
Off-Site Construction: Meeting Passive House and Zero Energy Ready Home Requirements
Residential Off-Site Construction: Misconception vs. Reality
Off-Site Construction: Coordination of Fabrication and Building Site Inspections
ICC/MBI 1205-2021 Standard for Off-site Construction: A New Tool for States and Local Jurisdictions
Remote Virtual Inspections
Historically, building inspections have been conducted on-site and in-person. New technology and platforms have made it possible to conduct code inspections remotely, either partially or entirely. This practice, referred to as remote virtual inspections (RVI) uses video cameras, still photographs, and video networking software (often in combination) to conduct a home or building inspection remotely rather than conducting it on-site.
Resources: