A shortage of building inspectors threatens to upend Oregon’s housing goals

After almost two decades building homes in the Salem area, developer Oleg Foksha is seeing a problem crop up more often. Essential building inspections are lagging, delaying construction.

Inspectors who work for local government and private utilities ensure buildings comply with state codes intended to make sure structures are safe and that people can get out quickly in case of fire. They typically review plans, inspect projects under construction and give developers notes on what…