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

Building inspection scheduling in Ottawa typically takes 2-5 business days for most standard inspections, though this can vary by season and inspection type.

The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) generally provides next-day or same-week scheduling for routine inspections like framing, insulation, or final inspections. However, during peak construction season (April through October), you may need to book 3-5 business days in advance, especially for popular time slots.

Scheduling Process in Ottawa

To schedule your inspection, call 613-580-2424 or use the online portal at ottawa.ca/building. You'll need your building permit number and must specify which inspection you're requesting. The city offers inspection slots Monday through Friday, typically between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

For electrical work, remember that ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspections are separate from City building inspections. ESA inspections can usually be scheduled within 1-3 business days by calling 1-877-372-7233 or booking online at esasafe.com. ESA inspection fees run approximately $100-200 depending on the scope.

What Affects Scheduling Times

Winter months (November through March) typically offer faster scheduling - sometimes next-day availability. Summer and fall see the heaviest demand, particularly in growing Ottawa areas like Kanata, Barrhaven, and Orleans where new construction and renovations peak.

Specialized inspections like structural or complex mechanical systems may require specific inspectors and could take longer to schedule. If you're in rural Ottawa areas like Manotick or Stittsville, inspectors may batch appointments by location, which could affect timing.

Red Flags to Watch For

Never let a contractor pressure you to skip inspections or suggest they can "handle the inspection scheduling later." Legitimate contractors build inspection timing into their project schedules and know the local booking patterns. If your contractor seems unfamiliar with Ottawa's inspection process or suggests avoiding permits altogether, that's a major warning sign.

Always confirm that your contractor has actually scheduled required inspections before work begins. Some homeowners discover too late that their contractor never pulled proper permits or scheduled inspections, leading to costly delays and potential safety issues.

Planning Your Project Timeline

Build inspection scheduling into your project timeline from the start. In Ottawa's busy season, factor in up to a week between calling for inspection and getting work approved to proceed. This is especially important for projects requiring multiple inspections, like basement finishing or additions where you'll need framing, insulation, electrical, and final inspections.

For current scheduling availability and to book your inspection, contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building.