Working with a Building Inspector

Some inspectors are more friendly than others, but they are all there for your protection. Treat the inspector with respect, and you will likely have a mutually beneficial relationship.

Go to your inspector with a plan to be approved or amended; don't expect the building department to plan the job for you.

To avoid wasting the inspectors time, find out as much information as possible about your project before you talk to the inspector. Consult the building department's literature, national codes, or how-to books.

Draw plans that are close to professional quality. Everything should be to scale and should be drawn clearly. You may need to make both a top view drawing and one or more other drawings.

Never argue with an inspector. Always be courteous. Follow instructions. Assume the inspector knows more than you do. Inspectors are wary of homeowners, because many take on projects beyond their abilities. Show the inspector you are serious about doing things the right way.

Be sure you clearly understand when you need to have inspections. Do not cover up any work that needs to be inspected.

If you are hiring a contractor, it is usually best to have the contractor, not you, deal directly with the inspector.