In my line of work I deal regularly with inspectors who are employed by the local counties to inspect the construction of buildings to ensure they meet standards prescribed by the state building code. Theoretically this is a good use of government power and resources to ensure that all structures are built to a set standard of safety, reliability, and accessibility. The discussion of whether or not the government has the right to enforce such laws on the private property of citizens is another topic altogether, but my focus right now is on the level of service provided by these building inspectors.

I have heard some of the worst reports of rudeness, arrogance, tardiness, and all other sorts of awful behavior by building inspectors which would get any ordinary private sector employee fired in short order. Why does it not affect the government employees? Because no matter how poorly they do their job their “company” will not lose business since there is no other company who is even allowed to enter the market. The only option for certifying the structure you are building is built correctly is to use the local building officials employed by the government. They are in no danger of losing any business to competitors because there are none.

One of the predominate traits I have noticed from building inspectors is arrogance. I believe this comes from their possession of power in that contractors need them in order to complete any project. You need them and they don’t need you – not a good situation.

My suggestion is why can’t this certification be done by private sector companies? Even if the rules and regulations are established by the government couldn’t they be certified by a private company? Contractors could choose the least expensive, most reliable, and quickest company to do their inspections. And of course they would be will to work along with the contractor since they might lose business if they don’t.

By the way, this is just a small, insignificant example of a principle that could be applied to much more important issues such as education, drug control (FDA), and airport security screening (TSA). I would recommend reading articles by John Stossel, Neal Boortz, and Walter Williams for more information in these areas.