Do I need an inspection for drywall installation?

In Ottawa, drywall installation itself typically doesn't require a separate inspection, but it depends on what's behind those walls and whether you pulled building permits for your renovation project.

If you're just replacing drywall in an existing room without any structural, electrical, or plumbing changes, no inspection is required. However, if your drywall installation is part of a larger renovation project that required a City of Ottawa building permit, then yes - you'll need inspections at various stages.

When Drywall Work Requires Inspections in Ottawa

If you pulled a building permit for your project (basement finishing, addition, major renovation), the City of Ottawa requires inspections before drywall goes up. This is because inspectors need to see what's behind the walls first:

Required inspections BEFORE drywall:

• Framing inspection (if structural work was done)


• Electrical rough-in inspection (if new electrical was installed)


• Plumbing rough-in inspection (if new plumbing was added)


• Insulation inspection (for exterior walls or basement)

Once these "rough-in" inspections pass, you can install drywall. After drywall and finishing work is complete, you'll need a final inspection.

ESA Electrical Inspections

If any electrical work was done behind your new drywall, you need an ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspection regardless of whether you have a City building permit. This includes new outlets, switches, or lighting. The ESA inspector must see the rough electrical work before drywall covers it up.

Contact ESA at 1-877-372-7233 or visit esasafe.com to schedule. The inspection fee is typically $100-200.

What Happens If You Skip Required Inspections

Installing drywall over work that should have been inspected creates serious problems:

• You may need to remove sections of new drywall for inspection


• Insurance claims could be denied for uninspected work


• Safety hazards from improper electrical or structural work


• Issues when selling your home

How to Verify What You Need

Call City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 and explain your project. They can tell you definitively whether your work required permits and inspections. If you're unsure whether electrical work needs ESA inspection, call ESA directly.

For straightforward drywall replacement with no other work involved, you're typically fine to proceed without inspection. But when in doubt, always check with the authorities first - it's much easier than dealing with problems later.

Visit ottawa.ca/building for more information about the permit and inspection process, or use their online portal to check if permits were pulled for your address.