EN
EN
EN

Inspection

Inspection — Saeed Azarshab

Inspection Steps in Wooden Buildings in Canada:

1) Footing Stage:

Preparation for Inspection:

  • Ensure the excavation site is clear and the footing forms are properly laid out with the correct placement of rebar as per engineering specifications.
  • The inspection should be scheduled before pouring the concrete.

During the Inspection:

  • The inspector verifies the size, depth, and placement of footings relative to the property lines and building layout.
  • The footing design, including rebar arrangement, must comply with the drawings approved by the engineer.

2) Foundation Wall:

Before Concreting:

  • Confirm the required inspection of reinforcement and formwork before concrete placement.
  • Provide safe access and the required documentation. Photographs are supplementary unless the authority explicitly accepts them instead of an on-site inspection.

Inspection Considerations:

  • The inspector will check for proper rebar positioning, size, and quantity to ensure it meets structural requirements.

3) Prebackfill:

Preparation for Inspection:

  • Apply waterproofing and dampproofing membrane to the foundation walls.
  • Install weeping tiles or foundation drains and cover with gravel to ensure proper drainage.

During the Inspection:

  • The inspector checks the waterproofing, drainage, and damp-proofing for integrity and proper installation.
  • Additional checks may be performed for foundation depth, setbacks, and if the basement height is a concern, ensuring it is not misclassified as the first floor due to excessive height.
Inspection stage in Wood Framing , Saeed Azarshab Architecture

4) Framing, Plumbing, and HVAC:

Concurrent Inspections:

  • Confirm the inspection sequence with the local building department; framing, plumbing, and HVAC inspections may be separate.
  • Complete the work required for each inspection and keep it accessible until permission to cover it is given.

Plumbing and HVAC:

  • The plumbing rough-in, which includes the installation of drain and water pipes, is inspected for proper slopes and support.
  • HVAC ductwork and equipment should be installed and ready for inspection.

5) Electrical Rough-In:

By Certified Electrician:

  • In Ontario, arrange electrical notifications and inspections through the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), as applicable. Other jurisdictions have their own authorities.
  • The responsible electrical contractor must confirm the required inspection stages before wiring is concealed.

6) Insulation:

Preparation for Inspection:

  • Insulate the building according to the local code requirements.
  • The vapor barrier must be installed properly to avoid any possible moisture issues.

7) Fire Separation:

If Applicable:

  • Depending on the proximity to adjacent buildings, a fire separation inspection may be necessary.
  • This involves verifying fire-rated construction between units or properties.

Additional Steps:

Gas Inspection:

  • Have gas work performed and documented by appropriately qualified contractors. Confirm inspection and activation requirements with the responsible regulator and gas utility; a utility visit does not replace every required inspection.

Drainage:

  • Have the in-floor drainage inspected before it’s covered, ensuring the slopes are correct directing water appropriately outside.

Fire Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

  • Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are in place and functional.

8) Final Inspection:

Completion Checks:

  • Verify required guards, handrails, plumbing fixtures, access points, and protective devices against the approved design.
  • Confirm required gas installation records, equipment commissioning, and heating-system design documentation.

Occupancy Permit:

  • Obtain the required occupancy authorization from the local authority before occupying the building. Conditions and documentation vary by jurisdiction; completing an inspection does not automatically authorize occupancy.

General Tips:

Documentation:

  • Keep engineering reports, permits, and photos ready for each stage of inspection.

Coordination:

  • Schedule inspections well in advance and ensure the site is prepared and accessible for the inspector.

Compliance:

  • Follow all recommendations by inspectors and correct any issues immediately to avoid delays in receiving clearance to proceed.

Shoring (if applicable):

  • If shoring is required for excavation, an inspection will need to take place before this stage begins.

This is a general inspection overview, not a complete or universal sequence. Confirm required stages, documentation, and permission to proceed with the authorities responsible for the project.

WOOD FRAMING