What inspections are required during a home renovation in Ottawa?

Home renovations in Ottawa require multiple inspections depending on your project scope - from mandatory City of Ottawa building inspections to ESA electrical and TSSA gas inspections, with specific timing requirements for each.

City of Ottawa Building Inspections

When you pull a building permit through ottawa.ca/building, the City requires several mandatory inspections at different stages. For most renovations, you'll need:

Foundation/Footing Inspection - Required before pouring concrete if you're doing structural work or additions. Must be scheduled 24 hours in advance by calling 613-580-2424.

Framing Inspection - Covers structural elements, insulation placement, and rough-in work before drywall goes up. This is when they verify your work meets Ontario Building Code requirements.

Final Inspection - Ensures all work matches approved plans and meets safety standards. No occupancy until this passes.

For bathroom renovations involving structural changes, you'll typically need framing and final inspections. Kitchen renos with wall removal require the same. Basement finishing projects need framing inspection before insulation and drywall, plus final inspection.

ESA Electrical Inspections (Mandatory)

Any electrical work in your Ottawa renovation requires Electrical Safety Authority inspection, even if done by a Licensed Electrical Contractor. The contractor pulls the ESA permit, but you can verify it at esasafe.com.

ESA inspects after rough-in (wiring installed but walls open) and again after final connections. Inspection fees run about $100-200 per visit. If you're adding circuits for kitchen appliances, bathroom fans, or basement lighting, ESA inspection is non-negotiable.

TSSA Gas Inspections

If your renovation involves gas appliances, water heaters, or HVAC work, Technical Standards and Safety Authority inspection is required. This includes moving gas lines for kitchen islands, installing gas fireplaces, or upgrading furnaces during basement finishing.

TSSA-certified technicians handle the permit and inspection process. Verify their credentials at tssa.org before hiring.

Specialized Inspections

HVAC Systems - New ductwork or system installations need both building permit inspection and TSSA review if gas-connected.

Plumbing Rough-in - Major plumbing changes require inspection before covering walls, especially for bathroom additions or kitchen relocations.

Insulation Inspection - Required before drywall installation to verify R-values meet Ontario Building Code requirements.

Inspection Timing and Scheduling

Book City of Ottawa inspections at least 24 hours in advance through ottawa.ca/building or 613-580-2424. ESA and TSSA inspections are scheduled by your licensed contractors.

Failed inspections mean work stops until corrections are made and re-inspection passes. This can add weeks to your timeline and extra costs.

What Happens If You Skip Inspections

Working without permits or skipping required inspections creates serious problems. The City can issue stop-work orders, require you to tear out completed work for inspection, or refuse final occupancy. Insurance may not cover damage from unpermitted work.

When selling your Ottawa home, buyers' lawyers often request permits and inspection records for recent renovations. Missing documentation can derail sales or reduce your home's value.

Red Flags to Watch For

Contractors who say "we don't need permits for this" or "inspections are optional" are putting you at risk. Licensed contractors know Ottawa's requirements and factor inspection timing into project schedules.

Always verify that your contractor has pulled proper permits before work begins. Check the City of Ottawa building permit search online or call 613-580-2424 to confirm.

For major renovations, expect 2-4 inspections minimum, with timing built into your project schedule. Proper planning prevents delays and ensures your renovation meets all Ottawa safety requirements.