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Permit inspection stages checklist

What gets inspected, and when. Print this and post it at the job site.

1. Footing / FoundationBefore the concrete pour: trench depth, width, rebar placement, anchor bolts, drainage and vapor barrier.
2. Under-slab / UndergroundPlumbing, mechanical and electrical runs in the slab must be exposed and pressure-tested before fill.
3. Framing / Rough-inAfter framing, before drywall: lumber sizing, shear walls, and rough electrical, plumbing and HVAC.
4. InsulationAfter insulation, before wallboard: correct R-value, air-sealing at penetrations, vapor barrier.
5. FinalWhen complete: fixtures, detectors, egress/tempered glass, guardrails, and a visible house number. Closes the permit.

Call for inspections 24–48 hours ahead; most jurisdictions require notice.
Never cover work before it passes inspection — concealed failures mean opening walls back up.
Keep the approved plans and prior sign-offs on site for the inspector.
Failed inspections usually cost a re-inspection fee — be ready before you call.

Sources: FEMA — Checklist to Acquire a Building Permit