Dallas TX – In a strategic move to bolster the city’s development services, the Dallas City Council on Wednesday approved a four-year multi-vendor contract aimed at improving third-party plan review and inspection services. The new agreement, involving three firms—SAFEbuilt Texas LLC, Bureau Veritas North America, Inc., and Shums Coda Associates, Inc.—marks a shift from the previous single-consultant model.
The decision provides the Planning & Development Department (PDD) with added flexibility and operational resilience, particularly in critical inspection areas such as plumbing and mechanical systems, where demand has consistently remained high.
“This contract gives us the ability to rotate between firms when one is unavailable, ensuring inspections stay on schedule and helping to avoid costly delays in construction or certificates of occupancy,” said Sam Eskander, Deputy Director and Chief Building Official for the City of Dallas.
Beyond inspections, the contract includes plan review capabilities, offering additional support in case of future staff vacancies or sudden increases in permit applications. City officials emphasized that the revamped structure will help maintain the timeliness and quality of service amid Dallas’s booming construction activity.
Boosting Capacity Amid Staffing Challenges
The city has recently made strides in addressing internal staffing gaps. Four new plumbing inspectors have been hired in 2025, resulting in a net gain of two inspectors after attrition. Although plan review staffing is currently stable, the new contract acts as a safeguard against future workload surges or workforce shortages.
Broad Support from the Development Community
The proposal has received strong endorsements from stakeholders within Dallas’s development and construction industries. In a statement, The Real Estate Council (TREC) commended the partnership between the city and third-party providers.
“This contract is essential to continue our efforts to be more timely with projects coming online,” TREC noted, underscoring the importance of reliable and responsive inspection services.
A More Agile Approach to Growth
With Dallas experiencing steady growth and high levels of development activity, the city is focused on improving service continuity and reducing delays. The multi-vendor model is expected to enhance responsiveness and mitigate disruptions caused by staffing shortages or high-volume permit cycles.
City leaders say the contract reflects a broader commitment to smart, sustainable urban growth and ensuring the city remains a dependable partner in development.
For more information about Dallas Planning & Development, visit:
dallascityhall.com/sustainabledevelopment
