How long does it take to get a building inspection scheduled in Ottawa?

Building inspections in Ottawa are typically scheduled within 2-3 business days of your request, though this can extend to 5 business days during peak construction season (spring through fall).

The City of Ottawa Building Code Services operates on a first-come, first-served basis for inspection scheduling. You can request inspections through several methods, with online booking being the fastest option through the ottawa.ca/building portal. You can also call 613-580-2424 during business hours, though online requests are processed more quickly.

Timing varies by inspection type and season. Standard inspections like footing, framing, insulation, and final inspections follow the 2-3 day guideline. However, more complex inspections requiring specialized inspectors (like structural or accessibility reviews) may take longer to schedule. During Ottawa's busy construction months (April through October), expect the longer end of the timeframe as inspectors handle higher volumes.

What affects your inspection timeline: The city requires at least 24 hours notice for most inspections, and you must request your inspection before 3:00 PM for next-day consideration. If your project fails an inspection, you'll need to address the issues and request a re-inspection, which follows the same scheduling timeline. Emergency or safety-related inspections can sometimes be expedited.

Key scheduling requirements for Ottawa: Your permit must be active and all previous required inspections must have passed. You'll need your permit number, the specific inspection type, and the property address ready when booking. The inspector will typically provide a 2-hour arrival window on the scheduled day.

Red flags to avoid: Never pressure contractors to skip inspections or proceed without proper approvals. Some unscrupulous contractors might suggest this to save time, but it puts you at risk for safety issues and problems when selling your home. All required inspections must pass before you can legally occupy or use the renovated space.

Pro tip for Ottawa homeowners: Schedule your inspection request as soon as the work is ready, not when you think it might be ready. If you're not quite ready when the inspector arrives, you'll pay for a failed inspection and need to reschedule. Most contractors familiar with Ottawa's process will coordinate inspection timing with you to ensure everything is properly completed first.

For current scheduling and to book online, visit ottawa.ca/building or call Building Code Services at 613-580-2424. Having your permit number and specific inspection requirements ready will speed up the process significantly.