What do building inspectors look for during a renovation inspection?

Building inspectors in Ottawa focus on code compliance, safety, and ensuring work matches your approved permit drawings during renovation inspections.

The City of Ottawa's building inspectors conduct thorough reviews at different stages of your renovation project. Understanding what they're looking for helps ensure your project passes inspection the first time and avoids costly delays.

Structural and Framing Elements

Inspectors carefully examine any structural changes to ensure they meet Ontario Building Code requirements. They verify that load-bearing walls haven't been removed without proper engineering, that new beams are properly sized and supported, and that any structural modifications match the approved drawings. In Ottawa's older neighborhoods like the Glebe or Westboro, inspectors pay particular attention to how new work integrates with existing century-old structures.

For additions or significant renovations, they check foundation work, ensuring proper footings, drainage, and frost protection suitable for Ottawa's climate. Floor joists, wall framing, and roof structures must meet current code requirements, even if existing elements were grandfathered under older codes.

Electrical Systems and ESA Compliance

All electrical work requires separate ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspection beyond the city building inspection. However, building inspectors verify that electrical permits have been obtained and that rough-in work is ready for ESA review. They ensure adequate electrical capacity for renovated spaces and proper GFCI protection in bathrooms, kitchens, and basement areas.

The inspector confirms that electrical panels are properly labeled and accessible, and that any electrical work was performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor. You can verify your electrician's credentials at esasafe.com before work begins.

Plumbing and HVAC Systems

Inspectors examine plumbing rough-ins to ensure proper venting, adequate pipe sizing, and code-compliant installations. In Ottawa renovations, they pay special attention to basement bathroom installations, ensuring proper sewage ejector systems where needed and adequate drainage.

For HVAC work, they verify that ductwork is properly sized and sealed, that gas connections (if applicable) have TSSA approval, and that ventilation meets current requirements. This is particularly important in Ottawa's climate where proper ventilation prevents moisture and ice dam issues.

Insulation and Vapor Barriers

Given Ottawa's extreme temperature variations, inspectors closely examine insulation installation and vapor barrier placement. They verify that insulation meets current R-value requirements (significantly higher than older homes) and that vapor barriers are properly installed and sealed. This prevents condensation issues that can lead to mold problems in Ottawa's humid summers and dry winters.

Fire Safety and Egress

Inspectors ensure that renovated spaces meet fire safety requirements, including proper egress windows in basement bedrooms, smoke detector placement, and fire separation between units in multi-family renovations. For secondary dwelling unit conversions popular in Ottawa neighborhoods like Old Ottawa South, they verify separate exits and proper fire ratings between units.

Final Inspection Checklist

During final inspection, inspectors verify that all work matches approved drawings, that required permits were obtained (including ESA and TSSA where applicable), and that safety features like handrails, guards, and stair dimensions meet code. They check that all fixtures are properly installed and that the space is ready for occupancy.

Common Issues and Delays

Inspectors frequently flag missing permits for work that required them, improper electrical connections, inadequate insulation, and safety violations like missing smoke detectors or improper stair construction. Having your contractor review the permit drawings before inspection helps avoid these common problems.

To schedule inspections in Ottawa, call Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or use the online portal at ottawa.ca/building. Allow 24-48 hours notice for most inspection requests, and ensure all work is complete and accessible before the inspector arrives.

For complex renovations, consider having your contractor present during inspections to address any questions immediately and avoid re-inspection fees.