How long does it take to get inspection approval in Ottawa?

In Ottawa, inspection approval timing varies by trade and complexity, but most routine inspections are completed within 1-2 business days of your request, with approval issued the same day if everything passes.

The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) typically schedules inspections within 24-48 hours of your request, depending on inspector availability and the type of work being inspected. Here's what you can expect for different inspection types:

Routine Building Inspections
For standard building permit work like framing, insulation, or final inspections, the City aims to complete inspections within one business day of scheduling. If your work passes inspection, approval is typically issued immediately or within hours. Failed inspections require corrections and re-inspection, which can add several days to your timeline.

ESA Electrical Inspections
Electrical inspections through the Electrical Safety Authority operate on a separate timeline from City inspections. ESA typically schedules electrical inspections within 2-3 business days in the Ottawa area. You can book online at esasafe.com or call their customer service line. ESA inspections cost approximately $100-200 depending on the scope of work.

TSSA Gas and HVAC Inspections
Technical Standards and Safety Authority inspections for gas work or pressure vessels are usually scheduled within 2-4 business days. TSSA operates independently from City inspections, so if you need both building and gas inspections, coordinate timing carefully to avoid delays.

Peak Season Considerations
During Ottawa's busy construction season (May through September), inspection scheduling can extend to 3-5 business days, particularly for complex commercial projects or in high-activity neighborhoods like Kanata, Barrhaven, or Orleans. Winter months typically see faster scheduling.

What Affects Approval Speed
Failed inspections are the biggest delay factor. Common issues include missing permits, work not matching approved plans, or code violations. When an inspection fails, you'll receive a written report detailing required corrections. Re-inspection scheduling follows the same timeline as initial inspections.

Expedited Options
The City of Ottawa offers expedited inspection services for an additional fee in urgent situations. Contact Building Code Services directly to discuss availability and costs.

Pro Tips for Faster Approval
Ensure your contractor schedules inspections at the right construction phases - don't call for framing inspection if electrical rough-in isn't complete. Have all required documentation ready, including permits and approved plans. Most importantly, verify your contractor is properly licensed through ESA (for electrical) or TSSA (for gas work) before they start, as unlicensed work will automatically fail inspection.

For current inspection scheduling, visit ottawa.ca/building or call 613-580-2424. The online portal allows you to track inspection status and receive approval notifications electronically.