What is an Inspection? Zoning Definition

An inspection is a review conducted by a municipal building inspector or code enforcement officer to confirm that construction work meets the standards of the applicable building codes, the approved building plans, and any conditions of the zoning or development approval. Inspections occur at specific stages during construction and are required before work can proceed to the next phase.

Typical inspection stages for a new home include the foundation (before pouring concrete), framing (after the structure is erected but before walls are closed), rough-in for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems, insulation, and a final inspection before the building can be occupied. Each inspection must be passed before the contractor can move on. If an inspector finds a violation, the work must be corrected and re-inspected before proceeding.

The final inspection is particularly important because it is usually required before a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is issued. Without a CO, you cannot legally move into or use the building. Occupying a structure without a final inspection and CO can result in fines, forced vacating, and difficulty selling the property later.

Property owners are responsible for scheduling inspections at the appropriate times during construction. In most jurisdictions, you or your contractor call the building department to request an inspection, and an inspector visits the site within one to a few business days. Failing to request required inspections — or covering up work before it has been inspected — can result in the building department requiring you to open up walls or undo completed work so the inspector can verify compliance.