Inspection Checklist
Building or renovating a home involves several required inspections. These inspections help confirm the work is safe, meets building code requirements and is ready for the next stage.
While inspectors use detailed technical checklists, most outcomes come down to a few common issues. Understanding these can help you avoid delays and keep your project on track.
Inspection Outcomes
Every inspection results in an outcome that tells you whether your project can move forward or if additional work is required. Understanding these results can help you plan next steps and avoid delays.
Passed
The work meets required standards and there are no outstanding documentation requirements. In some cases, minor items may remain, but they can be reviewed at a future inspection.
Partially Passed
Some deficiencies were identified, but construction can continue. These items must be corrected before the next applicable inspection.
Failed
Significant deficiencies were found, or the work was not ready for inspection. Corrections are required and must be verified through a re-inspection before work can proceed.
Inaccessible
The inspector was unable to safely access the site. The inspection must be rescheduled once safe access is provided.
Waived
The inspection was not required for the project or was already completed at an earlier stage.
Cancelled
The inspection was cancelled, with details provided in the inspection report. A new inspection must be booked.
What Inspectors Look For
Footing Inspection
This inspection takes place early in construction, once footings are installed and the site is prepared for foundation work.
A passing inspection typically means:
- Footings are installed in the correct location and match approved drawings
- Strip footings and column pads are constructed properly
- Granular fill is in place as required
- Excavation conditions are stable and suitable for building
- Required safety measures, such as site fencing, are in place
A failed inspection commonly happens when:
- Footings do not match approved plans or are incorrectly constructed
- Excavation contains standing water or unstable soil
- Required granular fill has not been installed or is not suitable
- Footings are damaged, covered, or not accessible for inspection
- Site safety requirements, such as fencing, have not been met
Pre-backfill Inspection
This inspection takes place before backfilling, once the foundation walls are complete and dampproofing or waterproofing has been applied.
A passing inspection typically means:
- Foundation walls are constructed to match approved drawings
- Damp-proofing or waterproofing is complete and properly applied
- Weeping tile is installed correctly and in the proper location
- Granular material is in place over and around drainage systems
- Site conditions allow for proper drainage away from the foundation
A failed inspection commonly happens when:
- Damp-proofing or waterproofing is missing, incomplete or improperly applied
- Weeping tile is missing, damaged or incorrectly installed
- Granular cover is insufficient or not provided over weeping tile
- Foundation walls do not match approved plans or are deficient
- Excavation conditions, such as snow, debris or unsafe access, prevent inspection
Framing Stage
This inspection checks the home’s structure before walls are closed in.
A passing inspection typically means:
- The structure matches approved plans
- Walls, floors and roof framing are properly installed and supported
- Windows, doors and stairs are in place
- Structural components are secure and undamaged
A failed inspection commonly happens when:
- The structure does not match approved plans
- Key structural parts are missing, damaged or not properly supported
- Windows, doors or stairs are not installed
- Fire protection between spaces is incomplete
Vapour Barrier Stage
This inspection focuses on insulation and sealing the home to prevent heat loss and moisture problems.
A passing inspection typically means:
- Insulation is installed in walls, ceilings and floors
- The vapour barrier is continuous and sealed at all joints
- Openings around windows, doors and pipes are sealed
- Fire separations are maintained
A failed inspection commonly happens when:
- Insulation is missing or incomplete
- The vapour barrier has gaps or is not sealed properly
- Required materials or certifications are missing
- Sealing around openings is incomplete
Final Inspection
This is the last step before moving into the home.
A passing inspection typically means:
- Interior and exterior finishes are complete
- Stairs, railings and guards are safe and properly built
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working
- Heating, ventilation, plumbing and electrical systems are operational
- Safety features such as windows, drainage and sump systems are in place
A failed inspection commonly happens when:
- Construction is incomplete
- Safety features such as stairs or alarms are missing or incorrect
- Mechanical systems are not working
- Required safety elements, such as proper window exits or fire protection, are missing
- Issues from earlier inspections have not been fixed