Special inspections are required for critical structural work on many commercial projects. Here is how contractors keep them from becoming delays.
In this article
- What special inspections are
- Who hires the inspector
- Read the statement early
- Common inspections and tests
- Schedule inspections like trades
- Track the reports
- Work with the inspector, not against them
- Bring subs into the loop
- Budget for retests and reinspections
- Close out cleanly
- Frequently asked questions
- Frequently asked questions
What special inspections are
Special inspections are third-party inspections required by the building code for critical structural elements, separate from the routine inspections done by the building department. They are common on commercial projects and cover work like structural steel, concrete, masonry, soils and fireproofing.
Who hires the inspector
In most cases, the owner or the owner's design professional hires the special inspection agency, not the contractor, to keep the inspection independent. The requirements are listed in a statement of special inspections that is part of the permit documents.
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Read the statement early
Review the required inspections and tests during preconstruction. They affect your schedule, your sequencing and when work can be covered up. Missing an inspection before a pour can mean coring, testing or tearing out work later.
Common inspections and tests
- Concrete cylinders, slump and placement observation.
- Rebar placement before the pour.
- Bolting and welding on structural steel.
- Soil compaction and bearing verification.
- Masonry grout and reinforcement.
Schedule inspections like trades
Put inspections in your look-ahead schedule with lead times. Confirm the day before and make sure the work is ready. Inspectors who arrive to unfinished work cost time and often a return-trip fee.
Track the reports
Keep a log of every inspection, its result and open items. Nonconformances must be resolved and documented before the final report. A clean log speeds up closeout and the certificate of occupancy.
Work with the inspector, not against them
Inspectors are there to verify the work meets the design. Clear communication, access and organized documentation make inspections faster and reduce disputes.
Bring subs into the loop
Make sure the trades whose work is inspected know the requirements and the inspection points. The sub who pours before the rebar inspection creates a problem for everyone.
Budget for retests and reinspections
Failed tests and return trips often cost money. Clarify in your contract and with the owner who pays for reinspections caused by work that was not ready or did not pass. Clear terms prevent arguments when the invoice shows up.
Close out cleanly
Collect the final special inspection report before closeout. The building official often needs it before issuing the certificate of occupancy, so a missing report can delay the owner's move-in.
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Frequently asked questions
Who hires the special inspector?
In most cases the owner or the owner's design professional hires the special inspection agency, to keep the inspections independent from the contractor whose work is being inspected.