Way back in 1980, my area had a State Inspector who thought the world revolved around him. There were a few local contractors who even ran him off their worksite, he was such an a**hole! So much so that the local contractors and electrical utilities got together an requested, from the state, that our county take over all electrical inspections within this county. After jumping through a bunch of hoops, it was set up to do just that.
Fast forward to 1999. I have been inspecting for the county for 7 years, and was backup inspector for 5 years before that. My main job, however, was electrician for the City. I received only one check, from the City, but did inspections through-out the county. I had built up a good relationship with the local contractors, as well as with the surrounding area's inspectors. This was helped by attending meeting with the other inspectors, so we all called the same game.
However, dollars, being what they are today, drove the City into giving the inspection process back to the state, again, with alot of paperwork, but it was done.
The new State inspector for this area and I had known each other before they took over, and now we still visit. It is a good thing.
In my mind, it really doesn't matter who inspects, as long as they are knowledgeable about the code, and have some personality.
