This is a visual inspection for soil-bearing capacity and footing sizes. Foundations are intended to safely carry their own weight and the loads transferred to them. This inspection must occur before concrete is poured.

The inspector looks for appropriate installation of exterior storm and sanitary drains, including material type, slope, colour (green equals sanitary and white equals storm), fittings and more.

The inspector looks for size of foundation wall and that all water and damp-proofing measures have been installed, including weepers, stone, bituminous material and more. This must be done before you backfill around the foundation.

The inspector examines the structural integrity of wall systems, floor systems, roof systems, means of egress, fire and sound control, mechanical systems, windows and fireplaces. All rough-ins for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing and electrical must be completed. Your plumbing rough-in and HVAC rough-in inspections can be completed at the same time.

The inspector looks for compliance with thermal resistance, air barrier and vapour barrier requirements. All previously identified deficiencies are also inspected, as this is the last inspection before covering.

The inspector verifies that all life safety measures are in place in accordance with the Ontario Building Code. This may include smoke alarms, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, guards and railings, and that the site is free of construction debris.

Lot grading stage one is after your rough lot grading is complete, but before sod is laid down. The inspector will check if your swales and slopes appear to be correct. This inspection is optional, but recommended.

During final inspection, all systems are operational and the construction is complete. There cannot be any outstanding issues. After this inspection passes, your permit is closed.