Before Every Inspection: Universal Checklist
Regardless of inspection type, these items must be in place before the inspector arrives. Missing any of them is a guaranteed failed inspection or a refusal to inspect.
0 Pre-Inspection Essentials
Verify these items before every single inspection. They're the most common reason inspectors refuse to proceed.
- Approved plans on site and accessible to inspector
- Building permit posted visibly at the job site
- Work area clean, accessible, and safe for inspector entry
- All work for this phase is 100% complete (no "almost done")
- Previous corrections addressed and documented
- Responsible trade or superintendent on site or reachable by phone
Phase-by-Phase Inspection Checklists
1 Foundation Inspection
Covers footings, slab-on-grade, and grading. Inspector verifies soil preparation, rebar placement, and formwork.
- Excavation to required depth per approved plans
- Rebar size, spacing, and placement match structural plans
- Rebar properly tied and supported (chairs/spacers in place)
- Formwork level, aligned, and properly braced
- Anchor bolt locations marked and correct per plans
- Soil compaction test results available (if required)
- No standing water in excavation
- Utility trenches and sleeves installed per plans
2 Framing Inspection
Structural frame, shear walls, headers, and roof framing. One of the most critical and commonly failed inspections.
- All structural members match approved plans (sizes, species, grades)
- Shear wall nailing pattern matches schedule on plans
- Hold-downs and straps installed at all required locations
- Headers and beams correctly sized and supported
- Cripple walls properly braced
- Blocking installed at all required locations
- Roof framing complete: rafters, ridge, collar ties
- Window and door rough openings match approved sizes
- Fire blocking installed between floors and at soffits
3 Rough Plumbing
Water supply lines, drain/waste/vent (DWV) system, and gas piping before walls are closed.
- Supply lines properly supported and secured
- DWV pipe sizes match code requirements
- Proper slope on drain lines (1/4" per foot minimum)
- Vent pipes properly terminated and sized
- Water heater seismic strapping in place
- Gas lines tested and pressure test results available
- System holds pressure test (no leaks)
- Clean-outs accessible at required locations
4 Rough Electrical
All wiring, boxes, panel, and circuits before insulation and drywall.
- Wire gauge matches circuit amperage per plans
- All boxes properly secured and at correct heights
- Panel properly grounded and bonded
- GFCI protection where required (kitchen, bath, exterior, garage)
- AFCI protection where required (bedrooms, living areas)
- Smoke detector and CO detector locations per code
- Wire properly stapled and supported
- Box fill calculations within limits
5 Rough Mechanical (HVAC)
Ductwork, venting, and HVAC equipment installation before walls are closed.
- Duct sizes match HVAC design calculations
- Ducts properly supported and sealed at joints
- Combustion air provisions for gas equipment
- Exhaust fans ducted to exterior (not attic)
- Dryer vent routed to exterior with proper material
- Equipment clearances meet manufacturer specs
- Return air pathways clear and properly sized
6 Insulation Inspection
R-values, vapor barriers, and air sealing before drywall. Must be inspected before being covered.
- R-values match energy calculations on approved plans
- Insulation properly fitted with no gaps or compression
- Vapor barrier installed on correct side (warm side)
- Air sealing at all penetrations (electrical, plumbing, HVAC)
- Attic insulation depth markers visible
- Insulation kept clear of recessed lights (unless IC rated)
7 Drywall (Lath) Inspection
Nailing pattern, fire-rated assemblies, and moisture-resistant board in wet areas.
- Drywall thickness matches fire rating requirements
- Fire-rated assemblies use correct materials and fasteners
- Nailing pattern meets manufacturer and code specs
- Moisture-resistant board (green board or cement board) in wet areas
- All joints and seams properly finished
- Electrical boxes and fixtures accessible
8 Final Inspection
The last inspection before certificate of occupancy. Covers all trades and site conditions.
- All previous inspections passed and documented
- All fixtures installed and functional
- Smoke detectors and CO detectors installed and working
- Handrails and guardrails at required locations
- Final grading complete with proper drainage away from structure
- Address posted and visible from street
- All safety glazing where required (doors, tubs, stairs)
- GFCIs and AFCIs functional and properly labeled
- Appliances installed per manufacturer instructions
- Site clean, all temporary construction removed
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