From Decks To Pools, Clayton Inspector Ensures Safety Starts At The Ground Level

CLAYTON, N.C. – Danny “DJ” Tyndall starts his day early, reviewing permits and planning visits to job sites across Clayton. As a Building Codes Inspector III, his role takes him from new home builds to small backyard upgrades. No matter what the task, his focus stays the same. He helps make sure each job is safe for the people who will use it.

That focus becomes even more important at this time of year. As spring turns to summer, more residents begin work at home. This busy season brings a steady increase in permits and inspections. The Town of Clayton’s Inspections Department helps guide homeowners and contractors through each step from early planning to final approval.

Along the way, inspectors are involved more than many people might expect. Tyndall and his colleagues review decks, pools, electrical updates and other changes that may seem minor but still need careful attention.

“We are not there to make things harder,” said Tyndall. “We are there to help prevent problems before they turn into something serious.”

That guidance often begins before any work starts. Homeowners who want to add to their house must submit an application and plans for review. Staff check that the design meets building codes and local ordinances such as spacing and height.

Behind that review is a strong understanding of building codes, which can change over time. Inspectors stay current through training and daily experience. Tyndall said the job is not just about memorizing codes but about knowing when something does not look right and taking the time to find the answer.

“The codes change, so you are always learning,” said Tyndall. “You get used to trusting your eye and your experience to catch things that need a closer look.”

Even with planning, questions can come up once work is underway. Some of the most common issues happen when the codes are not fully understood. Tyndall often sees wiring that is not set up correctly, circuits carrying too much power, or supports that need adjustment. These are usually simple to fix when caught early and help keep the home safe and built to last.

“We try to catch problems early and explain what needs to change and why,” said Tyndall. “When people understand the reason behind it, they are more likely to fix it the right way.”

To support that effort, the department works closely with residents throughout the process. Staff can answer questions, review plans, and help people understand what is needed before work begins. This approach helps keep things moving and reduces the chance of setbacks.

That level of guidance carries through to the final step of each job. For Tyndall, the responsibility becomes clear each time he signs off on a project. His approval means that a space is ready to be used by a family or business.

“When I sign off on a project, that is my name on it,” he said. “It means I am standing behind that work and saying it is ready for someone to walk into.”

The Town of Clayton will recognize Building Safety Month in May, a national campaign that highlights the importance of safe construction and code compliance. It also helps residents understand better what to expect when planning work at home and how to move through the process with confidence.