CLAYTON - Jose Perez, Building Codes Inspector III for the Town of Clayton, earns top honor as the Eastern District Inspector of the Year from the North Carolina Mechanical Inspectors Association. (NCMIA).
The award recognizes outstanding achievements in building safety across three regions of the state: Western, Piedmont, and Eastern. Perez received the honor on July 22 during the NCMIA Annual Conference in Cherokee, North Carolina.
With more than a decade of service to the Town, Perez holds certifications in all five major trades: building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and fire. He is one of nine inspectors in the department who work together to complete more than 11,000 inspections each year.
"Every single inspection I do means something to me," said Perez. "If I sign off on it, that means I would feel safe sending my wife or my children inside that space. I want to be sure everyone gets to go home at the end of the day."
His goal is simple: make sure the work meets local, state, and federal safety codes.
"We are the gatekeepers of a safe environment," explained Perez. "We make sure that everything being built follows the proper rules. That way, everyone - residents, workers, and visitors - can feel safe."
But there is more to the job than checking boxes. Perez and his fellow inspectors work closely with contractors, builders, and homeowners to explain why something must be corrected, not just that it must be fixed. He believes safety starts with building trust, and he works closely with contractors, builders, and homeowners to explain not just what needs to be corrected, but why it matters.
"Jose's recognition reflects the high standards he brings to every inspection and the respect he has earned across the region," said Inspections Director Barry Alston. "He sets an example for what it means to serve with knowledge, professionalism, and heart. This honor brings positive attention to our department and reinforces the trust our community places in us every day."
The North Carolina Mechanical Inspectors Association works to promote consistent code enforcement and improve public safety across the state. The association brings together inspectors, design professionals, builders, manufacturers, and contractors to support safe and responsible construction practices.