What is a framing inspection for home additions?

A framing inspection in Ottawa is a mandatory building code inspection that occurs after your addition's structural frame is complete but before insulation and drywall are installed. This inspection ensures your addition meets Ontario Building Code (OBC) structural requirements and is safe to proceed with finishing work.

What the Ottawa Building Inspector Checks

During a framing inspection for your Ottawa home addition, the City of Ottawa building inspector will examine the structural integrity of your project. They'll verify that all framing lumber meets code requirements, checking that joists, studs, and beams are properly sized and spaced according to your approved plans. The inspector will ensure proper connections between new framing and your existing house structure, which is critical for additions.

They'll also verify that structural elements like headers over windows and doors are adequate, that bearing walls are properly supported, and that any structural modifications to your existing home were done correctly. Fire separation requirements between floors and between your addition and existing structure will be confirmed, along with proper blocking for drywall installation.

When to Schedule Your Framing Inspection

You must call City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to schedule your framing inspection once your contractor has completed all framing work but before any insulation, electrical rough-in, or drywall begins. Most Ottawa contractors will coordinate this timing for you, but as the permit holder, you're responsible for ensuring it happens.

The inspection typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on your addition's size and complexity. Ottawa building inspectors generally schedule inspections within 1-2 business days of your request, though this can extend during busy construction seasons.

Required Documentation and Access

Your contractor should have the approved building permit and plans available on-site during the inspection. The inspector will compare the actual framing to your approved drawings to ensure compliance. Make sure the inspector has clear access to all framed areas, including crawl spaces or areas that will become inaccessible after insulation.

What Happens After the Inspection

If your framing passes inspection, you'll receive approval to proceed with the next phase of construction. The inspector may place a green sticker on your permit card or provide written confirmation. If issues are found, you'll receive a list of deficiencies that must be corrected before re-inspection.

Common framing deficiencies in Ottawa additions include inadequate connection to existing structure, missing fire blocking, or framing that doesn't match approved plans. Your contractor will need to address these issues before requesting a re-inspection.

Costs and Timeline Impact

Ottawa charges approximately $100-150 for each framing inspection, with additional fees for re-inspections if deficiencies are found. Failed inspections can delay your project by several days or weeks, depending on the required corrections and inspector availability.

Working with a qualified contractor who understands Ottawa's building requirements helps ensure your framing inspection passes on the first attempt. Always verify your contractor is familiar with City of Ottawa inspection processes and OBC requirements for additions.

For more information about Ottawa building permits and inspections, visit ottawa.ca/building or call 613-580-2424.