Building inspections

Construction building inspection is the process of evaluating a building’s compliance with the plans and specifications outlined in its building permit, as well as relevant building codes and standards. Inspections are usually performed at various stages of construction, including foundation, framing, and final stages. The goal of building inspection is to ensure that the construction is safe, meets the requirements of the building code, and adheres to the approved plans. Building inspectors, who are often employed by local government agencies, perform these inspections to verify that the building meets minimum standards of safety and habitability.

How to perform a building inspection

Building inspections typically involve the following steps:

Review plans and specifications: Before the inspection, the inspector should review the approved building plans and specifications to familiarize themselves with the project.
Conduct the inspection: The inspector will physically visit the construction site and examine various aspects of the building, including the foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. The inspector will also check for compliance with building codes and safety regulations.
Document findings: The inspector will document their findings in a report, which may include a description of any deficiencies or deviations from the approved plans. The inspector may also take photos to support their observations.
Review with contractor: After the inspection, the inspector will typically meet with the contractor to review the findings and discuss any necessary corrections.
Follow-up inspection: Once the corrections have been made, the inspector will return for a follow-up inspection to verify that the work has been completed satisfactorily.

It is important for building inspectors to be knowledgeable about building codes and regulations and to have experience in construction practices. They should also have good communication skills to effectively communicate their findings to contractors and building owners.

What to look for during a building inspection

During a building inspection, the inspector typically examines several key components to assess compliance with building codes and approved plans. These components may include:

Foundation: The inspector will examine the foundation for proper placement, size, and reinforcement, as well as any signs of settling or cracking.
Framing: The inspector will examine the walls, roof, and floor framing to ensure that they are properly constructed and securely fastened.
Electrical: The inspector will examine the electrical wiring and components, such as outlets and switches, to ensure that they are properly installed and grounded.
Plumbing: The inspector will examine the plumbing system, including pipes, fixtures, and sewer lines, to ensure that they are properly installed and free of leaks.
HVAC: The inspector will examine the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system to ensure that it is properly installed and functioning.
Fire protection: The inspector will examine the fire protection systems, including smoke detectors and fire sprinklers, to ensure that they are properly installed and functioning.
Accessibility: The inspector will examine the building to ensure that it is accessible to individuals with disabilities, as required by law.
Exterior: The inspector will examine the exterior of the building, including windows, doors, and roof, to ensure that they are properly installed and weathertight.

This is not an exhaustive list, and the specific components to be inspected will vary based on the scope of the inspection and the local building codes and regulations.

Review plans and specifications

A building inspection review of plans and specifications involves evaluating the building design and construction plans to ensure that they comply with relevant building codes and standards. The inspector will review the plans to verify that they accurately reflect the intended construction, including the location and size of walls, windows, doors, and other elements. The inspector will also check the plans to ensure that they meet building code requirements for fire safety, energy efficiency, accessibility, and other important factors.

During the review, the inspector may identify any discrepancies or deficiencies in the plans, such as missing information or errors in calculations. The inspector may also identify areas where the plans do not meet building code requirements and recommend changes to bring the design into compliance.

After the review, the inspector may provide written comments and recommendations to the building owner and contractor, which should be addressed prior to beginning construction. The review of plans and specifications is an important part of the building inspection process, as it helps to ensure that the building will be safe, habitable, and in compliance with building codes.

Performing the inspection

Foundation

During a building inspection, the foundation is one of the key components that is evaluated to ensure that it is properly constructed and meets building code requirements. The inspector will examine the foundation for proper placement, size, and reinforcement, as well as any signs of settling or cracking. The inspector will also check that the foundation is level and free of deformities, and that it is properly anchored to the ground.

Some specific aspects of the foundation that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Footing size and placement: The inspector will verify that the footings are of adequate size and properly placed to support the weight of the building.
Reinforcement: The inspector will verify that the foundation has been properly reinforced with steel bars or other materials to ensure stability and strength.
Concrete mix and curing: The inspector will evaluate the quality of the concrete mix used for the foundation and verify that it was properly cured.
Waterproofing: The inspector will check for proper waterproofing and drainage around the foundation to prevent moisture from penetrating the building and causing damage.
Anchoring: The inspector will verify that the foundation is securely anchored to the ground and that the anchoring system is adequate for the size and weight of the building.

The inspection of the foundation is crucial to ensure that the building is safe, stable, and in compliance with building codes. Any deficiencies or problems with the foundation identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the rest of the building.

Framing

During a building inspection, the framing is one of the key components that is evaluated to ensure that it is properly constructed and meets building code requirements. The inspector will examine the walls, roof, and floor framing to ensure that they are properly constructed and securely fastened.

Some specific aspects of the framing that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Structural integrity: The inspector will verify that the framing members, such as the wall studs and roof rafters, are of adequate size and strength to support the weight of the building.
Fastening: The inspector will check that the framing members are securely fastened to each other and to the foundation, and that there is no movement or looseness in the framing.
Spacing: The inspector will verify that the spacing between framing members is appropriate for the type of construction and meets building code requirements.
Alignment: The inspector will check that the framing is straight and true, and that there are no bowing or twisting issues in the walls or roof.
Fire blocking: The inspector will verify that fire blocking has been installed in the walls and ceilings to prevent the spread of fire.

The inspection of the framing is crucial to ensure that the building is structurally sound and in compliance with building codes. Any deficiencies or problems with the framing identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the building.

Electrical

During a building inspection, the electrical system is one of the key components that is evaluated to ensure that it is properly installed and meets building code requirements. The inspector will examine the electrical wiring, outlets, switches, panels, and other components to ensure that they are safe and properly installed.

Some specific aspects of the electrical system that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Wiring: The inspector will verify that the electrical wiring is of adequate size and properly installed, and that it is protected from damage and is not a fire hazard.
Outlets and switches: The inspector will check that the outlets and switches are properly installed and that they are not overloaded or damaged.
Panel: The inspector will examine the main electrical panel to ensure that it is properly rated for the electrical load of the building and that it is in good condition.
Grounding: The inspector will check that the electrical system is properly grounded and that there are no issues with the grounding system.
Overloading: The inspector will verify that the electrical system is not overloaded and that there are no issues with circuits being over-currented.

The inspection of the electrical system is crucial to ensure that the building is safe and in compliance with building codes. Any deficiencies or problems with the electrical system identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the building.

Plumbing

During a building inspection, the pipework system is one of the key components that is evaluated to ensure that it is properly installed and meets building code requirements. The inspector will examine the pipes, fixtures, valves, and other components of the plumbing system to ensure that they are safe and properly installed.

Some specific aspects of the plumbing system that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Pipes: The inspector will verify that the pipes are of adequate size and properly installed, and that they are protected from damage and are not leaking.
Fixtures: The inspector will check that the plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and showers, are properly installed and are not leaking.
Valves: The inspector will verify that the valves, such as the main shut-off valve, are properly installed and in good working condition.
Drainage: The inspector will check that the plumbing system is properly vented and that there are no issues with the drainage system.
Water supply: The inspector will verify that the water supply system is properly installed and that there are no issues with the water pressure or quality.

The inspection of the plumbing system is crucial to ensure that the building is safe and in compliance with building codes. Any deficiencies or problems with the plumbing system identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the building.

HVAC

During a building inspection, the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is one of the key components that is evaluated to ensure that it is properly installed and meets building code requirements. The inspector will examine the heating and cooling units, ductwork, vents, and other components of the HVAC system to ensure that they are safe and properly installed.

Some specific aspects of the HVAC system that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Heating and cooling units: The inspector will verify that the heating and cooling units are of adequate size and properly installed, and that they are in good working condition.
Ductwork: The inspector will check that the ductwork is properly installed and is not leaking air.
Vents: The inspector will verify that the vents are properly installed and are not blocked or restricted.
Insulation: The inspector will check that the insulation around the HVAC system is properly installed and is not damaged.
Thermostats: The inspector will verify that the thermostats are properly installed and are in good working condition.

The inspection of the HVAC system is crucial to ensure that the building is comfortable and in compliance with building codes. Any deficiencies or problems with the HVAC system identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the building.

Fire protection

During a building inspection, the fire protection system is one of the key components that is evaluated to ensure that it is properly installed and meets building code requirements. The inspector will examine the fire alarms, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, and other components of the fire protection system to ensure that they are safe and properly installed.

Some specific aspects of the fire protection system that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Fire alarms: The inspector will verify that the fire alarms are properly installed and are in good working condition.
Smoke detectors: The inspector will check that the smoke detectors are properly installed and are in good working condition.
Sprinkler systems: The inspector will verify that the sprinkler systems are properly installed and are in good working condition.
Fire extinguishers: The inspector will check that the fire extinguishers are properly installed and are in good condition.
Emergency lighting: The inspector will verify that the emergency lighting is properly installed and is in good working condition.

The inspection of the fire protection system is crucial to ensure that the building is safe and in compliance with building codes. Any deficiencies or problems with the fire protection system identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the building.

Accessibility

During a building inspection, accessibility is one of the key components that is evaluated to ensure that the building is accessible for people with disabilities and meets building code requirements. The inspector will examine the entryways, elevators, ramps, and other components of the building to ensure that they are accessible and meet the standards for accessibility.

Some specific aspects of accessibility that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Entryways: The inspector will verify that the entryways are wide enough for people using wheelchairs or walkers, and that they have no steps or other obstacles.
Elevators: The inspector will check that the elevators are accessible, have Braille buttons, and meet the standards for accessibility.
Ramps: The inspector will verify that ramps are properly installed, have a slope of no more than 1:12, and meet the standards for accessibility.
Restrooms: The inspector will check that the restrooms are accessible, have grab bars, and meet the standards for accessibility.
Doorways: The inspector will verify that doorways are wide enough for people using wheelchairs or walkers, and that they have no steps or other obstacles.

The inspection of accessibility is crucial to ensure that the building is inclusive and in compliance with building codes and accessibility standards. Any deficiencies or problems with accessibility identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the building.

Exterior

During a building inspection, the exterior of the building is evaluated to ensure that it is safe and in compliance with building code requirements. The inspector will examine the roof, siding, windows, doors, and other components of the exterior to ensure that they are properly installed and in good condition.

Some specific aspects of the exterior that may be evaluated during a building inspection include:

Roof: The inspector will verify that the roof is in good condition, free of leaks, and properly installed.
Siding: The inspector will check that the siding is in good condition, free of damage, and properly installed.
Windows: The inspector will verify that the windows are properly installed, operable, and free of damage.
Doors: The inspector will check that the doors are properly installed, operable, and free of damage.
Gutters and downspouts: The inspector will verify that the gutters and downspouts are properly installed and in good condition.
Decks and balconies: The inspector will check that the decks and balconies are properly installed, stable, and in good condition.

The inspection of the exterior is crucial to ensure that the building is safe, secure, and in compliance with building codes. Any deficiencies or problems with the exterior identified during the inspection should be corrected before proceeding with the construction of the building.

Document Findings

Documenting the findings of a building inspection is an important step in the inspection process, as it provides a written record of the condition of the building and any deficiencies or issues that need to be addressed. The following are some steps that can be taken to document the findings of a building inspection:

Take detailed notes: During the inspection, take detailed notes on the condition of the building and any deficiencies or issues that are identified. This can be done on paper or using a digital device such as a tablet or smartphone.
Use photographs: Take photographs of any deficiencies or issues that are identified during the inspection. These photographs can help to document the issue and provide a visual reference for the building owner and others involved in the construction process.
Create a report: Compile the notes and photographs into a written report that summarizes the findings of the inspection. The report should be organized and easy to read, and should include a description of the issue, the location of the issue, and any recommendations for correction.
Provide a copy of the report: Provide a copy of the report to the building owner and other relevant parties, such as the contractor or architect.

It is important to document the findings of a building inspection accurately and thoroughly, as the report may be used in the future as a reference for the condition of the building. Additionally, the report may be used as evidence in legal proceedings related to the building, so it is important that it is accurate and complete.

Follow up inspections

Reviewing the findings of a building inspection with the contractor is an important step in the construction process, as it provides an opportunity to discuss any deficiencies or issues that were identified during the inspection and determine a plan of action to address them. The following are some steps that can be taken to review the inspection findings with the contractor:

Schedule a meeting: Schedule a meeting with the contractor to review the findings of the building inspection. This meeting should take place as soon as possible after the inspection to ensure that the issues can be addressed in a timely manner.
Review the report: During the meeting, review the report of the building inspection with the contractor. Discuss any deficiencies or issues that were identified and provide the contractor with a copy of the report for their reference.
Determine a plan of action: Work with the contractor to determine a plan of action to address any deficiencies or issues that were identified during the inspection. This may involve making repairs, making design changes, or re-inspecting the building to ensure that the issues have been resolved.
Set a timeline: Establish a timeline for the completion of any necessary repairs or changes. This will help to ensure that the work is completed in a timely manner and that the building is ready for final inspection.
Document the agreement: Document the agreement reached during the meeting, including the plan of action to address any deficiencies or issues, and the timeline for completion. This documentation can be used as a reference in the future to ensure that the work is completed as agreed.

Reviewing the findings of a building inspection with the contractor is an important step in ensuring that any issues with the building are addressed and resolved in a timely and effective manner. This can help to ensure that the building is safe and compliant with building codes, and that it meets the expectations of the building owner.

Review with contractor

Schedule a meeting: Schedule a meeting with the contractor to review the findings of the building inspection. This meeting should take place as soon as possible after the inspection to ensure that the issues can be addressed in a timely manner.
Review the report: During the meeting, review the report of the building inspection with the contractor. Discuss any deficiencies or issues that were identified and provide the contractor with a copy of the report for their reference.
Determine a plan of action: Work with the contractor to determine a plan of action to address any deficiencies or issues that were identified during the inspection. This may involve making repairs, making design changes, or re-inspecting the building to ensure that the issues have been resolved.
Set a timeline: Establish a timeline for the completion of any necessary repairs or changes. This will help to ensure that the work is completed in a timely manner and that the building is ready for final inspection.
Document the agreement: Document the agreement reached during the meeting, including the plan of action to address any deficiencies or issues, and the timeline for completion. This documentation can be used as a reference in the future to ensure that the work is completed as agreed.

Follow up inspections

Follow-up inspections are typically conducted after a building inspection has identified deficiencies or issues that need to be addressed. The purpose of a follow-up inspection is to verify that the necessary repairs or changes have been made to the building and that the issues identified during the initial inspection have been resolved.

The following are some steps that can be taken during a follow-up inspection:

Schedule the inspection: Schedule the follow-up inspection with the contractor and any relevant parties, such as the building owner or the inspector who conducted the initial inspection.
Review the initial report: Review the report from the initial inspection to understand what issues were identified and what repairs or changes were agreed upon.
Verify repairs and changes: During the inspection, verify that the necessary repairs or changes have been made to the building. This may involve re-inspecting specific areas of the building or reviewing documentation to confirm that the work has been completed.
Document the results: Document the results of the follow-up inspection, including any areas that have been repaired or changed and any issues that still need to be addressed.
Notify the contractor: Notify the contractor of any additional repairs or changes that may still be necessary, as well as any issues that were not resolved during the follow-up inspection.

Follow-up inspections are an important part of the building inspection process, as they ensure that any issues with the building have been fully addressed and resolved. This can help to ensure that the building is safe and compliant with building codes, and that it meets the expectations of the building owner.