Inspector in a Box
Empowering Indigenous Communities with Innovative Housing Solutions
WHAT IS INSPECTOR IN A BOX?
Inspector in a Box (IIAB) is a cutting-edge solution designed to build housing capacity within Indigenous communities of Canada and the United States.
- IIAB provides tools, training, and certification to enable local inspectors
- Includes drones, thermal cameras, apps, templates, and support systems
- Empowers Indigenous communities to self-manage inspections and funding
- Remote training model with centralized data
- Adaptable for HUD/ONAP and CMHC-supported housing programs
WHY CHOOSE INSPECTOR IN A BOX?
- Capacity Building: Empowers Indigenous Communities to take control of housing inspections and asset management
- Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for expensive third-party inspectors
- Employment Opportunities: Provides job training and certification pathways for community members
- Technology-Driven: Incorporates drones, thermal cameras, and digital reporting tools to streamline inspections
- Funding Support: Assists in securing renovation and maintenance funding for safer homes
HOW DOES IT WORK?
- Consultation & Assessment: Identify the community’s specific housing needs
- Delivery of Equipment & Training: Provide essential inspection tools, including smartphones preloaded with inspection apps, drones, and thermal cameras
- On-the-Job Training: A selected community member is trained in home inspection processes
- Data Collection & Analysis: Inspections are conducted, and findings are reviewed
- Reporting & Funding Applications: Comprehensive reports are generated to support funding applications for repairs and renovations
- Certification & Career Pathways: Trainees gain home inspection certification, creating sustainable employment within the community and across Canada.
- Franchise & Business Ownership Option: Graduates can take the next step by joining the Inspector in a Box franchise network, enabling them to operate as independent inspection businesses serving multiple communities — with continued support, branding, and access to national project opportunities.
WHAT'S IN THE BOX?
- Smartphones with preloaded inspection apps
- Drone with memory card for aerial inspections
- Thermal Camera Attachment to detect heat loss and moisture issues
- Moisture Meter & Measuring Tools for structural assessments
- Laser Measuring Tool for accurate floor plans
- Training Guides & Report Templates for seamless inspections
WHO BENEFITS FROM INSPECTOR IN A BOX?
- Indigenous Communities Housing Departments – Conduct in-house inspections and secure funding
- Community Members – Gain employment and career advancement opportunities
- Leadership & Governance – Improve asset management and community well-being
- Private & Government Sectors – Support Indigenous-led housing solutions
PROGRAM TIMELINE
FUNDING & SUPPORT OPTIONS
- Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) – Housing Support Program
- CMHC – Preservation Fund & Affordable Housing Fund
- Provincial Grants – New Relationship Trust (BC), Green Municipal Fund (AB) First Nations and Métis Community Partnership Projects (Sask)
- Indigenous Skills Training Programs