To make sure that building codes are being followed, inspections have to take place during the project. These can happen at various times, and codes and regulations do vary. However, there are a few main phases that generally trigger an inspection before moving on to the next phase. These are as follows:
— After the foundation has been poured
— After the rough framing of the building has been done
— After the rough plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling lines have been run
— After the insulation has been installed
— After the drywall has been put up
A final inspection then has to be done when the building has been completed. After that, a certificate of occupancy will be given out.
Now, even at this point, the building may not be 100 percent finished. For example, in order to save money, a homeowner may decide not to put interior trim around the windows. Corner bead could simply be used on the edge of the drywall to give it a finished appearance. Over the next year, the homeowner could work on installing trim as money is available. As long as that process did not change any of the major systems discussed above, a new inspection would not be needed.
Building codes are very important, both to ensure that the building is constructed safely and to adhere to local laws. Be sure you know what the codes are, when inspections must be done and what other legal obligations you have during the course of the project. Ignoring them can cause a lot of issues, especially if certain jobs have to be done twice.
Source: Whirlwind Steel, “Why Are Building Codes Important?,” accessed March 15, 2017
