Commonly Required Inspections

The inspections required for your project will vary depending on the scope of your project and any special conditions. For project-specific information, see basements, decks, driveways, garages, roofing and windows. The following is a list of commonly required inspections.

• Footing inspections are completed after trenches are excavated, forms erected, and reinforcing steel is in place. All property irons or survey stakes must be visible. This inspection must be made before concrete is placed in the forms.
• Foundation inspections for a poured concrete foundation require one inspection after all forms are set and all reinforcing rods are in place, and a second inspection after drain tile, damp proofing, foundation insulation, and anchor bolts are installed (prior to backfilling). For wood foundations, contact the Inspections Department for inspection requirements.
• Concrete slab and under-floor inspections are made after under-floor reinforcing steel and piping are in place but prior to placement of concrete. Inspection of under-floor spaces is required if they will not be accessible after floor sheathing is in place.
• Rough-in Inspections of plumbing, mechanical, gas, and electrical systems are made before covering or concealing any portions of the systems and prior to the framing inspection.
• Frame Inspections are made after all roof framing, fireblocking (PDF) and bracing are in place, and all pipes, chimneys, and vents are complete and all rough-in inspections of plumbing, mechanical, gas, and electrical systems are in place.
• Insulation Inspections are made after all insulation and vapor retarders are in place, all penetrations are sealed, and all fire blocks in place.
• Electric Inspections (rough-in and final) must be done in accordance with the Minnesota State Electrical Code. Find out more about electrical inspections.
• Plumbing Inspections (rough-in and final) are to be completed as prescribed by the Minnesota Plumbing code. Equipment, materials, power and labor necessary to accomplish the prescribed testing shall be furnished by the plumbing contractor.
• Gypsum Wallboard / Plaster Inspections are made after all gypsum wallboard (drywall) and/or plaster is in place and before any joints or fasteners are taped or finished.
• Fireplace Inspections take place after all chimneys, combustion air ducts, and framing around the fireplace is complete, but prior to enclosing. Factory-built fireplaces are inspected for conformance with the manufacturer's written installation instructions.
• A Final Inspection is made when all work for which the permit was issued is complete and all previously noted deficiencies have been corrected.

Due to the uniqueness of some remodeling projects, additional inspections may be required to insure conformance with the code and approved plans. These inspections will be shown on your inspection record card.