Schedule Framing Inspection
A critical checkpoint that verifies your framing meets building codes before covering it with insulation and drywall. Proper preparation ensures a smooth inspection.
Why Framing Inspection is Critical
The framing inspection is your last chance to verify structural integrity before covering everything with drywall. Inspectors ensure your basement meets minimum ceiling heights, has proper egress for safety, and that walls are built to code. This isn't just bureaucracy - these requirements protect your family's safety and your home's value. Catching problems now costs hours to fix. Discovering them after drywall costs thousands and weeks of work. A failed inspection means you cannot proceed, so proper preparation is essential. Most inspections take 30-60 minutes and result in immediate approval if you've followed codes.
What You'll Need
Inspection Preparation Guide
Review Code Requirements
Understand what the inspector will check before they arrive:
Key Code Points:
- •Ceiling Height: Minimum 7' in habitable rooms (7'6" preferred)
- •Egress Windows: 5.7 sq ft minimum opening, 24" minimum height
- •Stud Spacing: 16" on center for 2x4 walls (24" allowed for 2x6)
- •Fire Blocking: Required at 10' vertical intervals in walls
- •Header Sizing: Must support loads per span tables
Conduct Self-Inspection
Walk through with your plans and verify every requirement:
Self-Inspection Checklist:
- □ All walls plumb and square (check with 4-foot level)
- □ Stud spacing matches code and plans
- □ Headers properly sized and supported by jack studs
- □ Rough openings match door/window specifications
- □ Fire blocking installed where required
- □ Egress windows meet minimum size requirements
- □ Ceiling height meets minimums throughout
- □ Work matches approved plans (no deviations)
- □ All framing properly fastened (nails/screws per code)
- □ Beam connections secure and properly sized
Fix any issues now. It's much easier to correct problems before the inspector arrives.
Prepare Documentation
Have all required documents readily available:
- •Building permit (posted visibly on-site)
- •Approved construction plans with stamped approval
- •Structural engineering documents (if applicable)
- •Window manufacturer specs showing egress compliance
- •Any special product certifications or approval letters
- •Record of any plan revisions or field changes
Schedule the Inspection
Contact your building department to arrange inspection:
- Call building department or submit online request
- Request at least 24-48 hours in advance (longer in busy areas)
- Provide permit number and property address
- Confirm inspection type: "Framing Inspection"
- Note the scheduled time or inspection window
- Get inspector's contact number in case of issues
Important: Do not install insulation, drywall, or any wall coverings before the framing inspection. All framing must be visible and accessible.
Prepare the Site
Make the inspector's job easy with good site preparation:
- •Clean up debris and sweep floors for safe walking
- •Ensure good lighting in all areas (add temporary work lights)
- •Clear access paths to all rooms and framing
- •Have ladder available for ceiling height verification
- •Post permit in visible location near entrance
- •Be present during inspection to answer questions
Pro Tip: A clean, well-lit, organized site creates a positive impression and shows attention to detail - inspectors notice this.
During the Inspection
Follow these guidelines when the inspector arrives:
- •Greet inspector professionally and have documents ready
- •Let them work independently unless they ask questions
- •Be available to point out specific features if needed
- •Take notes if inspector points out any concerns
- •Ask for clarification on any violations before they leave
- •Get written report - don't accept verbal-only feedback
Pro Tips
- ✓Schedule inspection for mid-morning (9-11am) - inspectors are fresh and not rushed
- ✓Measure egress window openings before inspector arrives and have measurements written down
- ✓Take photos of all framing before covering - useful if questions arise later
- ✓If you made field changes from plans, point them out proactively with explanation
- ✓Don't argue with inspector - note concerns, make corrections, move forward professionally
Frequently Asked Questions
What do inspectors check during a framing inspection?▼
Inspectors verify ceiling heights (minimum 7 feet in habitable rooms), egress window sizes and well depths, stud spacing (typically 16 inches on center), proper headers over openings, fire blocking in walls, beam sizes and connections, and that framing matches approved plans. They also check for proper fastening, plumb walls, and adequate support.
When should I schedule the framing inspection?▼
Schedule the framing inspection after all wall framing, blocking, and structural work is complete but BEFORE installing insulation or drywall. The inspector needs to see the framing clearly. Call at least 24-48 hours in advance, though some jurisdictions require longer notice. Don't cover any framing until it's been inspected and approved.
What are the most common framing inspection failures?▼
Common failures include insufficient ceiling height, improper egress window sizes or wells, missing fire blocking, incorrect header sizing, work not matching approved plans, inadequate fastening, walls not plumb, missing structural supports, and improper electrical or plumbing penetrations through framing. Most issues can be corrected and re-inspected.
What happens if I fail the framing inspection?▼
The inspector will provide a written list of violations that must be corrected. Fix all noted issues, then schedule a re-inspection. There may be a re-inspection fee ($50-150). You cannot proceed with insulation or drywall until the framing passes inspection. Most failures are minor and easily corrected within a day or two.