Inspections
You'll need to get a building inspection completed at various stages throughout your building or renovation project. Building inspections ensure all construction meets the requirements set out in your building permit application and the Ontario Building Code.
Book an inspection
Complete this form to book a building inspection.
When booking your inspection, please note:
- we require at least two days’ notice
- inspections are not conducted on weekends or statutory holidays
- we cannot book specific times, such as morning or afternoon inspections
Inspectors cover over 500 square kilometres which can include island access or special investigations. Please include any special instructions related to your request when completing the form, such as that your property is water-access only, or how to enter the property. Inspections are arranged to be as efficient as possible to complete the inspections requested for that day.
Electrical inspections
For questions related to electrical work or to arrange for electrical inspections, you will need to contact the Electrical Safety Authority for more information.
When do I need an inspection?
Depending on the project type, you may need to get the following inspections on your next building and construction project.
Required building inspections
| Inspection type | Description |
| Footing forms | This inspection checks that forms are in place before pouring concrete. Verification by an OLS, C.E.T., or P.Eng. may be required. |
| Below ground plumbing | This inspection must be done before covering. Separate inspections may be required for above-ground plumbing if needed. |
| Radon rough in | This inspection checks the vapour barrier to help prevent soil gas (radon) from entering the building and reviews the rough-in for the subfloor depressurization system. It can be done with the below-ground plumbing inspection but must be completed before the concrete floor slab is poured. |
| Backfill | This inspection must be done before backfilling. Drainage tile, stone, damp proofing, and the foundation wall drainage layer must be in place. |
| Service laterals | This inspection checks that all connections are ready and that pipe bedding with tracer wire is in place. Sewer must be tested according to the Ontario Building Code. Note: Water billing starts when the connection is made. |
| Framing | This inspection must be done before insulation. All plumbing, ductwork, and electrical rough-ins must be complete, and roofing and windows must be installed. |
| Plumbing | This inspection covers rough-in plumbing before it is covered. All below-ground plumbing must also be inspected and tested before covering. |
| HVAC (Heating, Venting, Air Conditioning) | This inspection covers the installation of all mechanical air supply and return ducts, including sealing all joists in the ducts. It also includes the installation of hot water heating piping, including in-floor systems, which must be tested. |
| Insulation | This inspection checks insulation, vapour barriers, and air barriers before they are covered. All penetrations must be sealed or taped. Separate inspections of air and vapour barriers may be required depending on the project. Spray foam must cure for at least 24 hours before the inspection. |
| Fire separation | This inspection checks fire separations when they are required. |
| Occupancy | This inspection ensures basic health and safety and must be passed before occupying the building. You must notify the Township when the building is ready. For properties on municipal water, a water meter inspection is required. For properties with private services, a septic inspection must pass and a potable water test provided. |
| Final | All work related to this permit must be complete, including the sewage system, lot grading, and ESA certification. |
| Lot grading |
Once your grading designer confirms the grading is complete, send the grading certificate and required checklist to the Township to request an inspection. Inspections cannot be done when there is snow on the ground. All required documents must be submitted and complete before the review can take place. |
| Other | Additional inspections or documents may be required after the permit is issued. |
Septic inspections
| Inspection type | Description |
| Septic site evaluation | Site inspection, including test holes if needed, to confirm suitability. |
| Septic system base | Base grading completed prior to importing of sand fill. |
| Septic system installation | Inspection of tank and bed installation before covering and backfill; location marked and required documentation provided. |
| Final | The entire project under this permit must be complete, including the sewage system, grading, and septic bed erosion control (such as grass growth). |
Contact us
1024 Hurlwood Lane
Severn, Ontario
Phone: 705-325-2315
Fax: 705-327-5818
Contact us
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