Schedule Mechanical Inspection
Critical checkpoint before drywall. Get your electrical, HVAC, and insulation inspected and approved to ensure code compliance and safety.
Why Mechanical Inspection Is Critical
The mechanical inspection is your last chance to verify that electrical, HVAC, and insulation systems are installed correctly before they're hidden behind drywall. Attic conversions face unique challenges - limited headroom for ductwork, complex electrical runs through rafters, and precise insulation requirements to prevent moisture and heat problems. Skipping this inspection or failing to address violations can result in serious safety hazards, code violations that affect home resale, insurance issues, and costly demolition if problems are discovered later. Most jurisdictions won't issue a certificate of occupancy without proper inspections. This checkpoint protects your investment and ensures your family's safety for decades to come.
What You'll Need
Step-by-Step Guide
Verify All Rough-In Work Is Complete
Before scheduling, confirm everything is ready for inspection:
- - All wiring installed and properly stapled
- - Boxes mounted at correct heights (sloped ceiling considerations)
- - GFCI in bathroom, AFCI in bedroom circuits labeled
- - Smoke/CO detectors wired and locations marked
- - Panel schedule updated with new circuits
- - Ductwork installed, sealed, and supported
- - Supply and return registers positioned
- - Mini-split or extension properly sized
- - Thermostat location accessible
- - Bathroom exhaust vented to exterior
- - Insulation meets code R-values (R-38+ in ceiling)
- - Baffles installed in every rafter bay
- - Vapor barriers on correct side
- - Fire blocking between attic and lower floors
- - Air sealing complete at penetrations
Schedule the Inspection
Contact your local building department:
- -Call or schedule online 2-5 business days in advance
- -Provide permit number, address, and type of inspection needed
- -Request "rough-in inspection" or "mechanical inspection"
- -Get confirmation of date/time (often AM or PM window)
- -Ask if you need separate electrical, HVAC, and insulation inspections
- -Confirm inspector's contact info for day-of questions
Tip: Some jurisdictions combine all systems into one "rough-in" inspection, others require separate inspections. Ask when scheduling.
Prepare for Inspection Day
Set up for a smooth inspection:
- -Clean work area - remove debris, scrap materials, and tools
- -Ensure all work is visible and accessible (no covered areas)
- -Post permit in visible location near stairway or entry
- -Have approved plans available for reference
- -Set up adequate temporary lighting throughout attic
- -Clear path for inspector to access all areas including eaves
- -Label electrical circuits at panel if required
During the Inspection
Be present and professional:
- -Be available during the scheduled window
- -Greet inspector and offer to walk them through the work
- -Answer questions honestly and directly
- -Take notes on any concerns or required corrections
- -Ask for clarification if you don't understand an issue
- -Take photos of any problem areas for reference
- -Get a copy of the inspection report before inspector leaves
Address Any Corrections
If inspection doesn't pass on first try:
- + Get signed approval/sticker
- + Keep documentation
- + Proceed to drywall
- + Update project timeline
- - Review correction list
- - Fix all noted issues
- - Schedule re-inspection
- - Don't cover any work yet
Common attic-specific corrections: inadequate insulation R-value, blocked ventilation baffles, missing fire blocking at floor penetrations, AFCI requirements for bedrooms, and improper bathroom exhaust routing.
Pro Tips
- -Do a self-inspection the day before using online code checklists for your jurisdiction
- -Take "before inspection" photos of all work - useful if issues arise later
- -Ask inspector for advice on best practices - they're usually helpful when asked politely
- -Schedule inspection earlier in their window to avoid rushed late-day inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a mechanical inspection cover in an attic conversion?▼
The mechanical (rough-in) inspection covers: electrical wiring, boxes, and circuit protection (GFCI/AFCI); HVAC ducts, connections, and sizing; insulation R-values and installation quality; ventilation baffles and airflow paths; fire blocking; and vapor barriers. Some jurisdictions combine these into one inspection, others require separate electrical, HVAC, and insulation inspections.
When should I schedule the rough-in inspection?▼
Schedule after ALL rough-in work is complete but BEFORE drywall installation. This includes electrical wiring, HVAC ducts/equipment, and insulation. Typically schedule 2-5 business days in advance. Never cover work before inspection - you may need to remove drywall if issues are found later.
What are common reasons for failing a mechanical inspection?▼
Common failures include: missing GFCI/AFCI protection on required circuits, improper wire stapling or protection, inadequate insulation R-value, blocked ventilation channels, missing fire blocking between floors, improperly sized HVAC ducts, and missing vapor barriers. Most issues are easy to fix - the inspector will provide a specific list of corrections.
How long does a rough-in inspection take?▼
Typically 30 minutes to 1 hour for a standard attic conversion. Complex projects with bathrooms, multiple HVAC zones, or extensive electrical may take longer. The inspector needs access to all work areas and may check the main electrical panel downstairs as well as the attic space.