Inspections FAQ

When I start construction, is the work inspected?
Yes. It is the responsibility of the permit holder to call the Building Department to arrange for the required inspections. Required inspections are indicated on the inspection record card, which you receive when your permit is approved.

Where should I keep my inspection record card?
The card must be posted in a location visible from the street and accessible to the inspector. Generally, the best location is inside a front storm door.

Do I need to provide anything else to the inspector?
Yes. If you submitted plans along with your permit application, a copy of these plans, bearing an "approved" stamp was returned to you with the approved building card. This copy must be available for the inspector to review for determination that the work is in compliance with the approved plans.

How much notice does the inspector need when I am ready for an inspection?
According to the Commonwealth's Building Code the permit holder must give the inspector notice prior to the time when the inspection needs to be performed. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to the property and means to complete the inspection.

Can I call for plumbing and electrical inspections?
No. These calls must be made by the licensed plumber or electrician. The amount of notice required is stated in their respective codes.

Does someone have to be home during the inspection?
If access to the new work requires the inspector to walk through your existing, furnished house, someone must be present to let the inspector in. The inspector will not enter an unoccupied furnished house. We also will not enter a house in which only a child is home, unaccompanied by an adult. In these cases, please make arrangements with the inspector for a time to meet. We will try to accommodate your schedule as much as possible. However, the large number of inspections, and the unpredictability of the length of time each inspection may take, makes precise appointments difficult.