Do I need a final inspection to close my building permit?

Yes, you absolutely need a final inspection to close your building permit in Ottawa. The City of Ottawa requires a final inspection to verify that all work was completed according to the approved plans and meets Ontario Building Code requirements before they'll issue the final approval and close your permit.

Ottawa's Final Inspection Process

The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) requires you to request a final inspection once all work is complete. This isn't automatic - you must specifically request it through the ottawa.ca/building portal or by calling their inspection line. The inspection typically takes 3-5 business days to schedule, depending on their current workload.

During the final inspection, the building inspector will verify that all work matches your approved drawings, check that any required interim inspections were completed and passed, and ensure everything meets current Ontario Building Code standards. They'll also confirm that any deficiencies noted in previous inspections have been properly addressed.

What Happens If You Don't Get Final Inspection

Leaving a permit open can create serious problems down the road. When you sell your home, lawyers and buyers often request proof that all permits were properly closed. An open permit can delay or even derail a sale. Additionally, your insurance company might question coverage for work done under an incomplete permit if you ever need to make a claim.

The City of Ottawa can also impose penalties for permits left open beyond their expiry date, and you may need to pay additional fees to reactivate an expired permit for final inspection.

Preparing for Your Final Inspection

Before requesting the final inspection, ensure all work is 100% complete, including any touch-up work or minor finishing details. Have your approved permit drawings available for the inspector's reference. If your project required other inspections (ESA for electrical work, TSSA for gas work), make sure you have those completion certificates ready to show the building inspector.

For electrical work, you'll need your ESA inspection certificate showing the electrical work passed. For any gas work (furnace, water heater, gas lines), you'll need TSSA approval. The building inspector will want to see these before they can close your permit.

After the Final Inspection

Once your final inspection passes, the City will issue a final approval letter and officially close your permit. Keep this documentation with your home records - you'll need it for insurance, future permits, or when selling your home.

If the inspection reveals any issues, the inspector will provide a list of items to correct before they can approve final closure. You'll need to address these issues and request another final inspection.

Contact Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building to request your final inspection and properly close your permit.