On November 1 2005 the Inspectorate was formed by merging: the State Inspectorate for Archaeology, the Public Records Inspectorate, the Inspectorate of Cultural Heritage and the State Inspectorate for Listed Monuments.

The Inspectorate ensures compliance with the law and promotes improvements to the management and care of cultural heritage. When necessary, the Inspectorate takes action in the event of incidents and calamities.

The Cultural Heritage Inspectorate is part of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. The Inspectorate is an independent body which reports its findings objectively. It also advises the Minister on the quality and effectiveness of the legislation.