The CxA (is or is not) an inspector?

• A. Is NOT
• B. Is an inspector
• C. Sometimes
• D. Depends on project

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is understanding the distinct role of a commissioning authority versus a building inspector. A CxA focuses on making sure building systems operate together as the design intends and to the owner’s performance criteria. That means planning and coordinating tests, witnessing and documenting results, confirming deficiencies are resolved, and producing the commissioning report and final sign-off for the project’s operational readiness.

They are not the official inspector who enforces codes and prepares or issues permits. The inspector’s job is regulatory: verify code compliance, review submittals for code adherence, and issue permits or notices from the authority having jurisdiction. The CxA may observe or witness tests to verify performance, but this activity supports commissioning, not code enforcement.

So the best fit is that the CxA is not an inspector. They may interact with tests and validations, but their authority and purpose come from the commissioning process, not from regulatory inspection duties.