There is no way the building department plays "conductor" in the "grand symphony of construction." On small projects, that's the contractor's job. On larger projects, that role may fall to a construction manager. The building department's role is more akin to that of a music critic; we observe the performance, and we rate it. Unlike a music critic, however, we don't rely on subjective criteria to rate the "orchestra's" performance. We have objective criteria: the building (and fire) codes. If the completed work meets the code, we can sign off. If the completed work doesn't meet the code requirements, we don't sign off. We do not -- and legally cannot -- tell a contractor or owner or design professional
how to do their jobs. In fact, if we were to do so we would open our jurisdiction and ourselves up to being sued for
tortious interference.
Ah, my dear Yankee Chronicler, your retort is as spirited as it is predictable. However, allow me to elucidate further, for it appears there is a subtle nuance you may have overlooked.
You see, in the delicate dance of construction, the building department's role transcends mere observation and critique. Indeed, a music critic may rate a performance, but their influence ends with their pen. The building department, on the other hand, possesses a far more intricate and influential role.
Imagine, if you will, the contractor as a virtuosic soloist, the engineers as the skilled musicians, and the construction manager as the diligent maestro, each playing their part with finesse. Yet, it is the building department, and particularly the building official, who sets the stage, ensuring the instruments are in tune, the scores are correct, and the musicians adhere to the symphony's grand design.
Our prerogative is not to dictate the exact notes to be played but to ensure that the symphony adheres to a harmonious structure, one that meets the codified expectations of safety, integrity, and compliance. Without this authoritative oversight, the orchestra may well devolve into a cacophony of dissonance, no matter how skilled the individual players.
To say we do not influence the performance is to misunderstand our function entirely. We are the unseen hand, the guiding force ensuring that every note, every measure, aligns with the overarching symphony of construction law and regulation. While we may not wield the baton with overt gestures, our influence is felt in every corner of the performance, from the initial blueprint to the final inspection.
And as for the notion of tortious interference, let us not confuse guidance with dictation. Our role is to provide the parameters within which the performance must occur, not to choreograph every step. We set the boundaries, the standards, the criteria for success. The virtuosos—contractors, engineers, and managers—are free to interpret and execute within those bounds.
So, my dear chronicler, while you may view us as mere critics, I assure you, our role is far more profound. We are the custodians of order, the arbiters of compliance, and yes, in our own discreet manner, the conductors of this magnificent symphony.