Preparing for your inspection

A little preparation is the difference between a pass and a return visit. Many failed inspections come down to access, paperwork, or work that isn't ready yet.

Inspections lists what is done and what is still to do. Use Request Inspection when the work is ready, and View Report to see a result. Example from a GeoCivix demo portal. Names are hidden, and your local portal may look a little different.

• Your approved plans, in the version stamped or approved by the office handling your application — not an earlier draft. If a paper copy is expected, print it beforehand.
• Your permit, posted where it can be seen if that's expected.
• Any supporting documents for the work being inspected, such as product data or engineering letters.
• Someone who can give access to every area being inspected.

Download the current approved set from your portal rather than working from your own file — if anything changed during review, your copy may be out of date.

Ready means finished for this stage and open for inspection. The most common reasons for a wasted visit:

• Work isn't complete
• It's been covered up, so the inspector can't see it
• A prior inspection that had to pass first hasn't
• Related trades haven't finished their part

If you're unsure, ask before the inspection. A question costs a phone call; a failed inspection can cost a re-inspection fee and days of schedule.

• Confirm gate codes, lock boxes, and parking are sorted, and that anything you noted on the request is still accurate.
• Keep pets secured.
• Clear a safe path to what's being inspected — ladders where needed, panels accessible, crawlspaces open.
• Have utilities on if the inspection requires testing.

If access details changed since you requested, call the phone number shown on your portal rather than assuming the inspector will find a way in.

Someone familiar with the work should be present if possible. Inspectors often mention small things they'd rather explain than write up, and that conversation is much harder to have afterwards.

If the inspector raises something you disagree with, ask them to explain the requirement and where it comes from. Most are glad to. If it's still unresolved, take it up with the office rather than debating it on site — the inspector is applying a rule, not choosing one.

You'll be notified when the result is recorded, usually the same day. See Inspection results.