Request an Inspection

Step 1.Determine if you are eligible for a Virtual Inspection

To be considered for a video inspection, please confirm the following:

• The site contact has an active valid permit for the work.
• The type of inspection is verified by the inspector as acceptable to be performed as a video inspection. If the inspector determines the type of request does not qualify for a video inspection, the in-person inspection protocol will apply.
• The site contact has a smartphone or tablet and has Skype, Duo, FaceTime, Zoom or Microsoft Teams or another app or web-based site approved by Community Development.
• Have ear buds, headset or other method so you can hear clearly via your device.
• Have adequate lighting: test the lighting prior to inspection.

Step 2.Schedule the inspection

• Inspection can be requested on-line or by phone.
• Leave the site contact's name, email, and phone number in the inspection request.
• The inspector will call the site contact to confirm the inspection can be performed as a video inspection.
• The inspector will then schedule the inspection.

Step 3.Prepare for the inspection

Prior to the inspection please confirm and prepare the following:

• Be ready to accept a video call at the scheduled time - if you do not answer the inspector will try again for five minutes. If you are not available, you may fail your inspection.
• Turn off phone or tablet notifications during the video call. Notifications may freeze the video call or cause delays and could result in a failed inspection.
• Make sure power tools and equipment are not running so the call audio is clear.
• Be sure the area to be inspected is clear of debris, material, etc.
• Be sure you have any tools the inspector requires such as, but not limited to: Tape measure, Level, Screw gun, Hammer, Step or extension ladder.

Step 4. Performing the inspection

• The inspector will direct the site contact to start on the street where you can view city street signs to confirm the location of the work. Have house numbers up and clearly visible.
• Follow the directions of the inspector. Please refrain from outside conversation during the inspection.
• The inspection will take place starting from the lowest level moving up as necessary and walking each level from left to right.
• You are responsible for taking your own notes. Please make note of the corrections the inspector gives as they are given. The inspector will wait while you take notes if you do not have someone to help you.

Step 5.Wait for approval

• Upon completion of the inspection, your inspector will tell you in the video call if the inspection has passed or failed.
• Results will be processed in the permitting system and will be available on-line soon after. 

Step 6.Request an inspection date

Request an inspection

Step 1.Onsite Inspections

Inspections not eligible for virtual inspection will continue to be performed in-person and done on a case by case basis. Where appropriate, inspections will be scheduled and completed, priority will be given to projects that impact the immediate usability of currently occupied spaces. 

Step 2.Unoccupied New Construction

• In response to COVID-19 will provide 10 minutes advance notice of arrival to the site so areas to be inspected may be cleared of workers.

• Any personnel needed to be in attendance will be asked the following questions prior to initiating the inspection: 
  1) Do you or anyone at home or project site have any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, difficulty breathing?
  2) Have you or others in your home had known close contact with someone with COVID-19?
  3) Have you or others in your home traveled outside the country within the past 14 days? 

• If the answers to all 3 questions is "no", then we will proceed with the inspection with the project vacant or, if assistance is needed, while exercising social distancing per CDC guidelines. 
  
  
• If the answers to any of the 3 questions is "yes", then the inspection will be marked as inaccessible without a chargeable failure and the inspection request will need to be resubmitted after 14 days and symptoms have resolved (if applicable). 

• Failure to clear inspection areas or maintain adequate distance per CDC guidelines from the inspector will result in a failed inspection and the inspection leaving the site immediately. 

Step 3.Occupied Properties     

• In response to COVID-19 will provide 10 minutes advance notice of arrival to the site so areas to be inspected may be cleared of workers.

• One individual may accompany the inspector for the inspection, if desired. Individual will be asked the following questions prior to initiating the inspection: 
   1) Do you or anyone at home or project site have any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, difficulty breathing?
   2) Have you or others in your home had known close contact with someone with COVID-19?
   3) Have you or others in your home traveled outside of the country within the past 14 days? 

• If the answers to all 3 questions is "no", then we will proceed with the inspection with the project vacant or, if assistance is needed, while exercising social distancing per CDC guidelines. 

• If the answers to any of the 3 questions is "yes", then they will be marked as inaccessible without a chargeable failure and the inspection request will need to be resubmitted after 14 days and symptoms have resolved (if applicable). 
  
  
• Children, individuals not accompanying the inspector, and pets shall remain in a fully separated space away from the inspector for the duration of the inspection.

• Failure to clear inspection areas or maintain adequate distance per CDC guidelines from the inspector will result in a failed inspection and the inspection leaving the site immediately. 

Step 4.Request an Inspection Date