Inspection, Testing, and Plan Review
The Process
Understand the sequence: plan review, permit issuance, inspections at defined stages, testing, and final approval. Know typical inspection stages: footing/foundation, framing, rough-in (MEP), insulation, and final. Understand special inspections for certain structural work and the role of testing (concrete cylinders, soil compaction, pressure tests, fire damper testing). Know that approved plans must be on site and changes require re-review.
Traps to Watch
Questions often test that concealed work must be inspected before covering, and that a failed inspection stops work until corrected and re-inspected. Watch for confusion about who performs special inspections (qualified third parties, not the contractor). Another trap is assuming a final inspection covers hidden defects; it does not replace stage inspections.
Worked Example
A contractor wants to pour a slab over plumbing rough-in. Rule of thumb: rough-in must be inspected and approved before concealment. If a question asks whether the contractor may proceed to save time, the answer is no; the inspection must occur first, and pressure testing of the drain system is typically required before the slab is placed.
Key Points
- Concealed work must be inspected before covering.
- Failed inspections halt work until corrected and re-inspected.
- Special inspections are performed by qualified third parties.
- Approved plans must be available on site.
- Changes to approved plans require re-review.