What is a framing inspection for home additions?

A framing inspection in Ottawa is a mandatory building inspection that occurs after your addition's structural frame is complete but before insulation and drywall installation begins.

This inspection is a critical checkpoint in Ottawa's building permit process for home additions. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services requires this inspection to ensure your addition's structural elements meet Ontario Building Code (OBC) requirements before any work gets covered up.

What the Inspector Examines

During the framing inspection, the City of Ottawa inspector will examine the structural integrity of your addition, including foundation connections, wall framing, floor joists, ceiling joists, and roof structure. They'll verify that lumber sizes match your approved plans, check that proper spacing is maintained between studs and joists, and ensure all structural connections use appropriate fasteners and hardware.

The inspector also confirms that any required structural beams, headers, and posts are properly sized and positioned according to your building permit drawings. They'll check for proper bracing, ensure fire-stopping requirements are met between floors, and verify that any structural modifications to the existing house are completed correctly.

Timing and Scheduling in Ottawa

You must schedule your framing inspection through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or online at ottawa.ca/building. The inspection should be requested once all framing work is complete but before any insulation, electrical rough-in, or mechanical work begins. Give at least 24-48 hours notice when booking your inspection.

Most framing inspections in Ottawa are scheduled within 2-3 business days of your request, though this can extend during busy construction seasons. The inspection typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on your addition's size and complexity.

What Happens If Issues Are Found

If the inspector identifies deficiencies, they'll provide a written report detailing required corrections. Common issues include improper joist spacing, inadequate structural connections, or framing that doesn't match approved plans. Your contractor must address all deficiencies before requesting a re-inspection.

Failed inspections delay your project timeline and may require additional inspection fees (typically $150-200 for re-inspections in Ottawa). This is why working with experienced contractors familiar with OBC requirements is crucial.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be wary of contractors who suggest skipping the framing inspection or proceeding with insulation before the inspection passes. Some inexperienced contractors may not understand Ottawa's inspection requirements or try to rush the process. Always ensure your contractor schedules inspections at proper intervals and never allows work to proceed without required approvals.

Your contractor should be present during the inspection to address any questions and understand any required corrections. If they're not available or seem unfamiliar with the inspection process, this raises concerns about their experience with Ottawa building permits.

Official Resources

Contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building for inspection scheduling and requirements. Your building permit documents will outline all required inspections for your specific addition project.