What are the inspection requirements for a home addition?

Home additions in Ottawa require multiple inspections throughout the construction process, coordinated through City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) and other authorities depending on the work involved.

City of Ottawa Building Inspections

For your addition permit through ottawa.ca/building, you'll need these mandatory inspections:

Foundation Stage: Before any concrete is poured, the inspector must approve your excavation, footings, and reinforcement steel placement. This typically happens 1-2 days after you call to book.

Framing Inspection: Once your structural framing, roof structure, and rough openings are complete but before insulation goes in. The inspector verifies your addition meets Ontario Building Code structural requirements and matches your approved plans.

Insulation Inspection: After insulation is installed but before drywall. This ensures proper vapor barriers, insulation R-values, and air sealing meet OBC energy efficiency standards.

Final Inspection: When everything is complete - drywall, flooring, fixtures, trim. The inspector confirms the addition matches your permit and is safe for occupancy.

ESA Electrical Inspections

Since your addition will need electrical service, you'll need separate ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspections. Your Licensed Electrical Contractor pulls the ESA permit and arranges these inspections through esasafe.com or 1-877-372-7233.

Rough-in Electrical: After wiring is run but before drywall
Final Electrical: After all fixtures, outlets, and panels are connected

ESA inspection fees run about $100-200 per visit. Only use contractors you can verify at licensing.esasafe.com.

TSSA Gas Inspections (If Applicable)

If your addition includes gas appliances, heating, or you're extending gas lines, you'll need TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) inspections. Your TSSA-certified contractor (verify at tssa.org) handles these permits and inspections.

Timing and Coordination

The City of Ottawa typically schedules inspections within 1-2 business days of your request. Critical: Never cover up work before inspection - this can mean tearing out drywall later. Your contractor should coordinate all inspection timing, but verify they're actually calling them in.

What Inspectors Look For

Ottawa building inspectors focus on structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility compliance, and energy code requirements. They'll verify your addition doesn't exceed lot coverage limits and maintains required setbacks from property lines.

Red Flags to Watch

If your contractor suggests skipping inspections, doing work without permits, or says "the inspector won't notice," find a different contractor. All legitimate contractors in Ottawa know the inspection process and build it into their timeline.

For complex additions involving structural changes, you may also need engineering inspections at specific stages. Your contractor should outline the complete inspection schedule in your contract, including who pays the inspection fees (typically the homeowner).

Contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building for current inspection booking procedures and any COVID-related protocol changes.