Final Inspections
The official stamp of approval. Learn how to prepare for, schedule, and pass all final building department inspections to close out your permits and complete your whole home remodel legally and safely.
Quick Summary
Typical Cost
$0 - $500
Included in permit fees (usually)
Time Frame
1-3 days
Plus scheduling lead time
Difficulty
Moderate
Requires proper preparation
Why Final Inspections Matter
Final inspections represent the official verification that your remodel meets all applicable building codes and safety standards. Passing these inspections protects you legally, ensures your home is safe, and closes out the permit process that began at the start of your project.
Open permits can create significant problems down the road. When you sell your home, title companies will discover open permits and may require them to be closed before closing. Banks may refuse to finance properties with unpermitted work. Insurance claims can be denied if damage relates to unpermitted construction.
Beyond the paperwork, final inspections verify that electrical systems are safe, plumbing won't leak, structural work is sound, and fire safety features are properly installed. These inspections exist to protect you and your family from hazards that might not be apparent to untrained eyes.
Types of Final Inspections
| Inspection Type | What They Check | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Building/Structural | Framing, stairs, egress, railings, smoke detectors | Missing handrails, incorrect stair dimensions |
| Electrical | Panel, circuits, outlets, GFCI/AFCI, grounding | Missing GFCI protection, exposed wiring |
| Plumbing | Supply lines, drains, vents, water heater, fixtures | Improper venting, missing cleanouts |
| Mechanical/HVAC | Furnace, AC, ducts, ventilation, combustion air | Clearance violations, improper venting |
| Energy Compliance | Insulation, windows, HVAC efficiency, air sealing | Missing insulation, incorrect window specs |
| Fire/Safety | Smoke/CO detectors, fire blocking, egress windows | Missing detectors, blocked fire separation |
Pre-Inspection Preparation Checklist
Electrical Final
- All cover plates installed
- Panel cover on, breakers labeled
- GFCI outlets in wet locations
- AFCI protection where required
- Smoke/CO detectors installed
- All fixtures connected and working
Plumbing Final
- All fixtures installed and working
- No leaks under any fixtures
- Water heater properly installed
- T&P relief valve with discharge pipe
- Gas appliances properly vented
- Cleanouts accessible
Building Final
- Stair risers/treads meet code
- Handrails/guards installed
- Egress windows in bedrooms
- Address numbers visible
- Fire blocking in walls/chases
- Tempered glass where required
HVAC/Mechanical Final
- System operational
- Thermostat working
- Combustion air provided
- Exhaust fans vent to exterior
- Required clearances met
- Access for service maintained
Step-by-Step Inspection Process
Verify All Work Is Complete
Before scheduling finals, ensure all permitted work is 100% complete. Calling for inspection with incomplete work wastes everyone's time and may count against you.
- Complete punch list with contractor
- Install all finish materials (outlet covers, fixtures)
- Test all systems for proper operation
- Address any issues from rough inspections
- Review inspection card for any outstanding items
Gather Required Documents
Have all permit documents organized and available. The inspector will want to see approved plans and verify work matches what was permitted.
- Original permit (should be posted on site)
- Approved plans with any revision stamps
- Inspection card with all prior inspections signed
- Contractor licenses if requested
- Special certifications (energy, fire sprinkler, etc.)
Schedule Final Inspections
Contact your building department to schedule all required final inspections. Some may be combined; others require separate appointments.
- Call or use online scheduling system
- Request all final inspections at once if possible
- Note which inspections can be combined
- Allow 24-72 hours lead time depending on jurisdiction
- Get inspection window (usually AM or PM)
Prepare the Site
Make sure the inspector can easily access all areas and systems. Blocked access can result in a failed or incomplete inspection.
- Clear paths to electrical panel, water heater, furnace
- Unlock all areas including attic and crawl space
- Provide ladder if needed for attic access
- Turn on all systems (HVAC, water heater)
- Have flashlight available for dark areas
Attend the Inspections
Be present during inspections to answer questions, address concerns, and understand any issues firsthand. Your contractor should attend if they know the work better.
- Be on time for inspection window
- Have phone available in case inspector calls
- Follow inspector, take notes on any comments
- Ask questions if anything is unclear
- Be respectful - inspectors see problems all day
Address Any Corrections
If any items fail, get a clear understanding of what's required. Make corrections promptly and schedule re-inspection.
- Get written correction notice from inspector
- Clarify any items you don't understand
- Have contractor address issues promptly
- Schedule re-inspection when ready
- First re-inspection often free; subsequent may have fees
Obtain Final Approvals
Once all inspections pass, ensure you have proper documentation. The inspector should sign off on your inspection card for each trade.
- Get inspection card signed by each inspector
- Keep copies of any inspection reports
- Verify no "conditional" approvals remain
- Confirm all permits are ready for close-out
- Ask about Certificate of Occupancy if applicable
Request Certificate of Occupancy (If Required)
For major remodels or additions, you may need a Certificate of Occupancy. Apply after all finals pass and any required fees are paid.
- Verify if CO is required for your project
- Submit application with all required documents
- Pay any remaining permit or impact fees
- Wait for CO to be issued (may take several days)
- Keep CO with permanent home records
File All Final Documents
Organize and file all permit-related documents. These are valuable for future reference, resale, and insurance purposes.
- Original permit with all inspections signed
- Final approved plans (as-built if different)
- Certificate of Occupancy if applicable
- Contractor warranties and contact information
- Equipment manuals and warranty cards
Close Out Permits Officially
Verify with the building department that all permits are officially closed. This is critical for future property transactions and insurance.
- Request written confirmation permits are closed
- Verify status in online permit system if available
- Address any outstanding fees or requirements
- Update property records if needed
- Notify insurance company of completed improvements
Pro Tips
Schedule Strategically
Schedule inspections early in the week if possible. If you fail on Monday, you have all week to correct and reschedule. Failing on Friday means waiting until the following week.
Build Inspector Relationships
Be professional and respectful. Inspectors who feel respected are more likely to explain code requirements, suggest solutions to problems, and work with you on reasonable timelines.
Pre-Inspect Yourself
Walk through with your contractor using the inspector's checklist before calling for inspection. Catch and fix obvious issues to avoid failed inspections and delays.
Know Your Code Year
Your project is subject to the building codes in effect when your permit was issued, not current codes. This matters if codes have changed during your project timeline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Calling for inspection before work is complete
Inspectors expect 100% completion when you call for finals. Missing cover plates, incomplete caulking, or non-functioning systems will result in a failed inspection.
Not having approved plans available
The inspector may need to verify work matches approved plans. If you can't produce the plans, inspection may be delayed or failed. Keep a copy on site throughout the project.
Blocking access to systems
Inspectors need to see panels, water heaters, furnaces, and attic access. If they can't access these areas easily, they may fail the inspection or require a return visit.
Not being present for the inspection
If no one is home and the inspector can't access all areas, the inspection fails. If issues are found and no one can address questions, resolution takes longer.
Leaving permits open indefinitely
Open permits create title problems, insurance issues, and liability exposure. Close out permits promptly after completing final inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What final inspections are required for a whole home remodel?
Common final inspections include: Building/Structural, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical/HVAC, and Fire/Safety. Depending on your project, you may also need Energy Compliance verification, Pool/Spa inspection, or specialty inspections. Your permit will list all required inspections for your specific project.
How long before I can schedule a final inspection?
Most jurisdictions require 24-48 hours notice for inspection scheduling. Some busy departments may require more lead time, especially for finals that need multiple inspectors. Check with your local building department for their specific requirements and schedule early to avoid delays.
What happens if I fail a final inspection?
If you fail an inspection, the inspector will provide a correction notice listing specific issues. Fix the deficiencies and schedule a re-inspection. Many jurisdictions allow one free re-inspection; additional attempts may incur fees. Failed inspections are common and not catastrophic - address the issues and try again.
Do I need a Certificate of Occupancy for a remodel?
Not always. A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is typically required for new construction or when changing a building's use. For remodels of existing homes, you usually just need final inspection approval and permit close-out. However, if you added living space or changed the home's classification, a CO may be required. Check with your building department.
Why is closing out permits important?
Open permits can cause serious problems: difficulty selling your home, title issues, insurance complications, and potential liability if unpermitted work causes problems. Banks may not finance homes with open permits, and buyers may demand price reductions. Always close out permits properly to protect your investment.