Building Inspections

Occasional visits may occur during plan review or to answer questions. These visits are for information only and do not result in pass/fail outcomes.

Inspectors check soil conditions and bearing capacity to ensure the ground can safely support the structure. A geotechnical engineer may be required if conditions are uncertain.

Water, storm, and sewer lines are inspected from the property line to the building. Pipes must be properly tested, buried to the correct depth, and supported in clean bedding material.

Inspectors confirm footing size, soil compaction, rebar placement, and foundation layout. Engineering approval may be required for some projects.

Inspectors check that foundation walls are damp proofed and perimeter drains are correctly installed with proper slope, materials, and outlet. A survey certificate is required before proceeding.

Insulation and thermal breaks are checked for compliance with energy requirements. Radon rough-in systems, vapour barriers, and subfloor prep are also reviewed.

All plumbing must be pressure tested. Inspectors review pipe size, slope, and support before the system is covered.

Inspectors confirm walls, floors, and roofs match approved plans and are structurally sound. This includes beams, joists, trusses, stairs, and fire blocking. Moisture content and ventilation details are also reviewed.

Fire-rated walls, floors, and ceilings are checked to ensure required assemblies and penetrations meet code.

Inspectors confirm that flashing, weather barriers, and rainscreen systems are correctly installed to protect against water intrusion.

Energy efficiency and air-seal details are verified, including R-values, vapour barrier continuity, and attic clearances.

Before booking a final inspection, all required documents must be submitted. Inspectors confirm the project is completed according to approved plans and that all safety systems (guards, smoke alarms, tempered glass, grading, weather sealing) are in place.

Inspectors verify that all fixtures, shut-offs, and cleanouts are accessible and properly installed, and that the water system is functioning safely.

No one may occupy a building until an Occupancy Approval, Provisional Occupancy, or Final Inspection Notice is issued by the District.

As required by Building Bylaw No. 780, 2020, occupying a building before approval may result in fines of up to $1,000 per day.

For projects affecting roads or municipal property, the Engineering department inspects work within the right-of-way (e.g., sidewalks, landscaping, utilities) before deposits are released.

For complex projects with Coordinating Professionals, monitoring visits track progress and confirm professional oversight. These visits are informational and do not result in pass/fail outcomes.