Can I appeal a failed building inspection in Ottawa?

Yes, you can appeal a failed building inspection in Ottawa through the City's formal appeal process, but you'll need to act quickly as you typically have only 20 days from the inspection date to file your appeal.

The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) handles all inspection appeals through their Building Code Appeal Committee. This committee consists of qualified professionals who review disputes between property owners/contractors and building inspectors when there's disagreement about code interpretation or inspection results.

How to File an Appeal in Ottawa

Contact the Building Code Services office immediately at 613-580-2424 to request appeal forms and procedures. You'll need to submit your appeal in writing, explaining specifically why you believe the inspection failure was incorrect. Include any supporting documentation like engineering reports, manufacturer specifications, or alternative code interpretations that support your position.

The appeal fee in Ottawa is typically around $500-800, which is refundable if your appeal is successful. The Building Code Appeal Committee will schedule a hearing where you (and your contractor) can present your case. The inspector who failed your work will also present their reasoning.

What Happens During the Appeal Process

Construction work must stop on the failed portion until the appeal is resolved - this is crucial to understand as it can delay your project significantly. The appeal committee will review the Ontario Building Code requirements, examine your documentation, and may even conduct a site visit if necessary.

Most appeals in Ottawa are resolved within 4-6 weeks of filing, though complex cases involving structural or life safety issues may take longer. The committee's decision is binding, though in rare cases you can appeal further to the Ontario Building Code Commission.

Before You Appeal - Consider These Steps

Often, failed inspections can be resolved more quickly by working directly with your inspector. Call the inspector who conducted the failed inspection and ask for clarification on exactly what needs to be corrected. Many times, minor corrections can be made and a re-inspection scheduled within days rather than going through the weeks-long appeal process.

If your contractor caused the failure through poor workmanship or code violations, the appeal process won't help - the work simply needs to be corrected. However, if there's genuine disagreement about code interpretation or if you believe the inspector made an error, an appeal may be warranted.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a contractor suggests ignoring a failed inspection or doing work without proper approvals. All electrical work must also pass ESA inspection (separate from City inspection), and gas work requires TSSA approval. Some contractors unfamiliar with Ottawa's processes may not understand these multiple inspection requirements.

Getting Help With Your Appeal

Consider hiring a building code consultant or engineer familiar with Ottawa's processes if your appeal involves complex structural or technical issues. The Building Code Appeal Committee expects detailed technical arguments, not just disagreement with the inspector's decision.

For current appeal forms and specific procedures, visit ottawa.ca/building or call Building Code Services directly at 613-580-2424. They can walk you through the exact requirements and timelines for your specific situation.