Can I be present during my home renovation inspection?

Yes, you absolutely can and should be present during your home renovation inspection in Ottawa. In fact, most inspectors encourage homeowner participation as it's an excellent learning opportunity and helps ensure you understand any issues found.

Your Rights During Ottawa Building Inspections

When the City of Ottawa building inspector comes to your property, you have the right to be present and ask questions. The inspector will typically walk through the work area, checking that everything complies with the Ontario Building Code and matches what was approved in your permit application. This is your chance to understand exactly what they're looking for and learn about any deficiencies that need correction.

The inspection process in Ottawa usually takes 30-60 minutes depending on the scope of work. The inspector will examine structural elements, electrical rough-in (if applicable), plumbing rough-in, insulation, vapor barriers, and other code-required elements. They'll note any issues on their inspection report, which you'll receive a copy of.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Before the inspection, make sure your contractor has completed all work that's supposed to be done at this stage. The work area should be clean and accessible - inspectors need clear sight lines to examine framing, electrical boxes, plumbing connections, and other elements. Have your building permit posted visibly and ensure any required drawings or specifications are on-site.

During the inspection, feel free to ask questions about code requirements, why certain things are done specific ways, or what to watch for in future phases. Most City of Ottawa inspectors are happy to explain their findings and help you understand the building standards your project must meet.

When Things Don't Pass

If your renovation fails inspection, don't panic - this is common and part of the process. The inspector will provide a detailed list of deficiencies that must be corrected before they'll approve that phase of work. Your contractor should address these issues promptly and request a re-inspection through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services.

You'll want to be present for re-inspections too, to verify that all noted deficiencies have been properly addressed. This protects you from contractors who might cut corners or not fully understand what the inspector required.

Protecting Your Investment

Being present during inspections also helps you verify that your contractor is doing quality work that meets code standards. If you notice the inspector finding multiple issues or if your contractor seems unfamiliar with basic code requirements, these could be red flags about their competency.

For scheduling inspections in Ottawa, your contractor typically calls 613-580-2424 or uses the online portal at ottawa.ca/building. Inspections are usually scheduled 1-2 business days in advance, and you should receive notice of when the inspector will arrive.

Remember, the building inspection is there to protect you - it ensures your renovation meets safety standards and will pass future home sales or insurance reviews.