A Building Inspector will be required to review your project in several stages during construction. These stages are typically listed as required inspections on the reviewed permit drawings issued with your building permit. When conducting the mandatory inspections, the Building Inspector must be able to see the work under inspection. Any building elements covered before the related mandatory inspection has been made must be uncovered for inspection and passed before the completion of the project.
Typical Inspection Stages
Excavation: Prior to pouring concrete. All formwork and re-bar (as applicable) are to be in place.
Foundation/Slab Reinforcement: Prior to pouring concrete.
- Re-bar placement for ICF
- Required reinforcement for foundation walls
- Re-bar in suspended "cold room" slabs
Foundation/Backfill: Prior to backfilling.
- Foundation to be completed
- Dampproofing/waterproofing complete;
- Drainage layer complete; and
- Weeping tile with proper stone coverage complete.
Water & Sanitary Sewer Drainage Pipe: Prior to backfilling.
- Water service pipes complete and under test at a minimum of 50 psi
- Sanitary sewer pipe complete and under test with five psi air or filled with water
- A ball test may be requested by the Building Inspector
On-Site Sewage (Septic System): Prior to backfilling.
- Substantial completion of distribution pipes and septic tank
- A copy of the soil analysis or imported material analysis must be provided to the Building Inspector at this time
- A final inspection (when grading is completed)
In-Floor Plumbing: Prior to pouring concrete. Plumbing roughed-in, capped, and under test:
- Air test at five psi; or
- Water test with a minimum 10'-0" of pressure head
Masonry/Factory Built Wood Burning Fireplace: Prior to covering.
- Fireplace, fire stops and chimney flue installed.
- Manufacturer specifications shall be on site.
- NOTE: WETT certification shall be provided for all wood-burning appliances.
Above Ground Plumbing: All drains, wastes, and vents are complete and under test
- Air test at five psi; or
- Water test with a minimum 10'-0' of pressure head
Water Distribution System (within the Building):
Water pipes are complete and under a minimum 102 psi air test.
Framing: Framing to be complete.
- Request inspection after installation of roof/shingles, windows, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical.
Air Barrier System: An approved air barrier system shall be continuous and completely sealed throughout the entire building envelope. Generally completed during the framing and/or insulation inspection.
HVAC: General overview - following completion of framing.
Fire Separations: If applicable, completion of all required fire stopping of penetrations and party walls.
Insulation and Vapour Barrier: Prior to installation of finishes and drywall. All framing deficiencies noted must be completed.
Occupancy: All minimum Building Code items for occupancy completed.
No occupancy is permitted until an Occupancy Permit has been issued.
Final: All exterior grading completed and certification received; all building code items at the time of occupancy completed.