What inspections are required during a home renovation in Ottawa?

In Ottawa, the inspections required during your home renovation depend on the scope of work, but most renovations will need a combination of City of Ottawa building inspections and utility authority inspections (ESA for electrical, TSSA for gas work).

City of Ottawa Building Inspections

When you pull a building permit through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424), your project will typically require several mandatory inspections at key stages:

Foundation/Structural Stage: If you're doing any structural work, foundation repairs, or load-bearing modifications, an inspector must verify the work before it's covered up. This includes checking footings, foundation walls, and structural framing.

Framing Inspection: For additions or major renovations involving new framing, the inspector checks that all structural elements, fire separations, and rough openings meet Ontario Building Code requirements before insulation and drywall go up.

Pre-Drywall/Rough-In Inspection: This critical inspection happens after all rough electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work is complete but before insulation and drywall. The inspector verifies that all systems are properly installed and meet code requirements.

Final Inspection: Once all work is complete, including finishes, fixtures, and final electrical/plumbing connections, the inspector conducts a comprehensive review to ensure everything meets the approved plans and building code standards.

ESA Electrical Inspections

Any electrical work in your Ottawa renovation requires Electrical Safety Authority inspection, regardless of whether you need a building permit. If you're using a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC), they'll arrange the ESA inspection as part of their permit process. The ESA inspector will verify all electrical installations meet Ontario Electrical Safety Code requirements. Current ESA inspection fees run approximately $100-200 depending on the scope of work.

TSSA Gas and HVAC Inspections

If your renovation involves gas appliances, furnace installation, or gas line modifications, you'll need TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) inspection. This includes work on gas fireplaces, ranges, water heaters, or HVAC systems. Only TSSA-certified technicians can perform this work, and they'll coordinate the required inspections.

Inspection Timing and Scheduling

The City of Ottawa typically requires 48 hours notice for inspection scheduling. You can book inspections online through ottawa.ca/building or by calling 613-580-2424. Missing an inspection or proceeding without required approvals can result in stop-work orders and additional fees.

Red flag warning: If a contractor suggests skipping inspections or says "we don't need permits for this work," be very cautious. Uninspected work can create safety hazards, insurance issues, and problems when selling your home.

For complex renovations in areas like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven, expect 3-5 inspections minimum. Always verify your contractor understands Ottawa's inspection requirements and has experience with City of Ottawa Building Code Services processes.

The inspection fees are typically included in your building permit cost, but ESA and TSSA inspections are separate charges arranged directly with those authorities.