Framing Inspections: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Framing inspections assess a building's frame and components, making sure they are installed correctly and comply with safety codes and regulations established by local authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs). These inspections could either be a combination inspection, where framing, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) are all assessed together, or a singular framing inspection.

This article will discuss the importance of framing inspections, what to expect and how to be best prepared for inspections in the future.

Framing Inspections Basics

The International Building Code and International Residential Code set standards for inspections on commercial and residential buildings in the U.S. Inspections, typically enforced by local AHJs, take place during the permitting phase of the project and include framing, electrical and mechanical inspections. General contractors should be on top of all code requirements and changes in codes in order to keep their projects in compliance.  

Local AHJs that are responsible for enforcing codes may vary by location and type of building. For example, schools might have a different inspector than office buildings within the same county. Sometimes, inspectors are direct employees of the AHJ, while other times they are third-party inspectors.

For residential projects, AHJ staff inspectors often perform framing inspections, which might be combined with MEP inspections. Commercial inspections are usually more specialized, with separate inspections for framing, mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. Because of their size and amount of equipment that is installed, commercial projects generally involve more steps, checklists and inspections. 

Preparing for Framing Inspections

One of the most important aspects of preparing for inspections is conducting internal pre-inspections throughout construction. Superintendents should have a standardized, repeatable framework or template for pre-inspections, allowing their team, and any specialty contractors hired, to easily identify and address potential issues beforehand. 

By doing this, builders can avoid calling for an inspection before being fully prepared, which can lead to messy inspections and potential issues with the schedule. Since some initial inspections may also incur fees, it’s important that use their pre-inspections time to go over the completed work with a fine-tooth comb.

Contractors should also plan for inspections to  take weeks – or even months, to be scheduled. Project leadership should build a contingency plan in their schedule that is fully communicated to the entire team to avoid issues.

For example, some framing inspectors won’t pass a building if the framing is covered by sheetrock. Therefore, all teams need to have the sheetrock delivered but must wait until the inspection is complete to install it. 

Rushing and tight scheduling can lead to a strained relationship with the inspector. On top of that, if the inspection fails, it could lead to missed deadlines, rework or additional costs due to delays.

Incorporating buffer times or "will call" scheduling helps more effectively manage resources and avoid unnecessary headaches.

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Expectations for Framing Inspections

When working with county inspectors, assignments are random, which means there can be massive differences in the temperament and approach of each inspector. Some inspectors are known for being particularly strict or difficult. 

Some builders choose not to be present during the inspection, preferring to address issues later to avoid confrontation. Builders who get combative or argue about issues inspectors find can provoke stricter scrutiny from inspectors.

The best way to handle an inspection is to walk through the site with the inspector, making notes on all issues they find, and fixing issues immediately if possible. Having labor on-site during inspections to address any minor issues quickly can go a long way in passing an inspection. 

Contractors sometimes choose to overstaff and have materials ready to address any immediate concerns raised by the inspector. A generous inspector may stay onsite while an issue is being fixed and could turn a failing inspection into a passing one. 

When dealing with third-party inspectors, builders often encounter the same small group of inspectors, allowing for the development of a working relationship. These inspectors can act more like consultants, providing suggestions on how to meet code requirements rather than merely pointing out violations. 

If an inspection fails, inspectors will cite specific code violations but won't prescribe fixes, which means the project must then be re-inspected. Re-inspection fees may apply, especially after multiple failures. Delays in passing inspections can lead to increased costs due to extended project timelines and potential liquidated damages.

In some situations, the building’s design team may be consulted about issues noted by inspectors. Occasionally, the designers will be able to justify choices that have been made in the building’s framing and AHJs may decide to override the inspector. 

Adequate preparation leads to seamless inspections.

Builders can help put themselves in the best position possible with inspectors by ensuring they have prepared as much as possible throughout the building process. Incorporating digital tools to assist with the inspection process can also set construction companies up for success. 

Showing respect, asking questions and seeking inspectors' suggestions can also lead to a better inspection process and help build a positive rapport between builders, inspectors and AHJs. By confirming that buildings are up-to-code and doing solid, careful work, owners and builders can save themselves time and money.

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