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Building Inspections

Building projects are subject to mandatory inspections at specific stages of construction or demolition to confirm building standards are met.

To arrange an inspection, contact Inspections

Please provide the following information when booking:

  • The building permit number
  • Project site location
  • Required inspection
  • Contact information

Notification to be provided a minimum of two business days in advance of applicable stage of construction.

Keeping the Construction Site Safe

The Occupational Health and Safety Act sets out the rights and duties of all parties in the workplace. Its main purpose is to protect workers against health and safety hazards on the job. The Act establishes procedures for dealing with workplace hazards, and it provides for enforcement of the law where compliance has not been achieved voluntarily.

The Construction Site must be kept safe and clean for your employees, our Building Inspectors & public.

Please be advised that Building Services will require a minimum of two business days to schedule a building inspection.

In accordance with the Ontario Building Code; the timeframe from which notice is given begins on the following business day that inspection notice is received and does not include, Saturdays, Sundays or holidays and/or days upon which Town offices are closed.  Inspection requests can continue to be scheduled by phoning or e-mailing Building Services.

Schedule an inspection or 519-599-3131 extension 296

Exceptions to the above may be considered by the Chief Building Official on a limited basis (footings, water and sewer inspections). Your co-operation in this matter is appreciated. If you have any questions with respect to the foregoing, kindly contact the Chief Building Official.

 

A Building Inspector will be required to review your project in several stages during construction. These stages are typically listed as required inspections on the reviewed permit drawings issued with your building permit. When conducting the mandatory inspections, building inspectors must be able to see that part of work under inspection. Any building elements covered before the related mandatory inspection has been made must be uncovered for inspection and passed before the completion of the project.

Typical Inspection Stages

Excavation: Prior to pouring concrete. All formwork and re-bar (as applicable) to be in place.

Foundation/Slab Reinforcement: Prior to pouring concrete.

  • Re-bar placement for ICF
  • Required reinforcement for foundation walls
  • Re-bar in suspended "cold room" slabs

Foundation/Backfill: Prior to backfilling. Foundation to be completed; damp proofing/waterproofing complete; drainage layer complete and weeping tile with proper stone coverage complete.

Water & Sanitary Sewer Drainage Pipe: Prior to backfilling.

  • Water service pipes complete and under test at minimum 50 psi
  • Sanitary sewer pipe complete and under test with five psi air or filled with water
  • A ball test may be requested by the Building Inspector

On-Site Sewage (Septic System): Prior to backfilling. Substantial completion of distribution pipes and septic tank. A copy of the soil analysis or imported material analysis must be provided to the Building Inspector at this time.

In-Floor Plumbing: Prior to pouring concrete. Plumbing roughed-in, capped and under test:

  • Air test at five psi; or
  • Water test with a minimum 10'-0" of pressure head

Masonry/Factory Built Wood Burning Fireplace: Prior to covering. Fireplace, fire stops and chimney flue installed. Manufacturer specifications shall be on site. NOTE: WETT certification shall be provided for all wood burning appliances.

Above Ground Plumbing: All drains, wastes and vents complete and under test

  • Air test at five psi; or
  • Water test with a minimum 10'-0' of pressure head

Note: water meters are required to be installed and operational prior to requesting a plumbing rough-in inspection. To arrange a water meter inspection, please contact Water & Wastewater Billing.

Water Distribution System (within Building): Water pipes complete and under a minimum 102 psi air test.

Framing: Framing to be complete. Request inspection after installation of roof/shingles, windows, plumbing, HVAC and electrical.

Air Barrier System: An approved air barrier system shall be continuous and completely sealed throughout the entire building envelope. Generally completed during the framing and/or insulation inspection.

HVAC: General overview - following completion of framing.

Fire Separations: If applicable, completion of all required fire stopping of penetrations and party walls complete.

Insulation and Vapour Barrier: Prior to installation of finishes and drywall. All framing deficiencies noted must be completed.

Occupancy: All required items for occupancy completed. No occupancy permitted until Occupancy Permit issued.

Final: All exterior grading completed and certification received; all building code items at time of occupancy completed.

Schedule a Building Inspection

The following is a summary of the current criteria for allowing the occupancy of a newly constructed house:

Occupancy Requirements Link

Commencing January 1, 2012 residential houses must meet additional completion requirements before occupancy of a house can be permitted. These new requirements found in Article 1.3.3.4 of Division C of the Ontario Building Code will culminate in the issuance of an Occupancy Permit.

*Note: Houses are residential dwelling units in a detached, semi-detached or townhouse form where no unit is above another unit, each unit has its own exit facility and has no accommodation for tourists.

For more information, please contact Building Services.

Re-inspection fees may be applicable where the requested work to be inspected is not ready, is incomplete, if the reviewed drawing package is not on site, or if the site is found unsafe for the Building Inspector to continue.

If your inspection result indicates "Reinspect with Fee", the re-inspection fee is required to be paid before further inspections are completed. Unless otherwise indicated, each re-inspection fee is $100.00 (HST exempt).


Contacts

Building Inspections
519-599-3131 x296

Building Services
519-599-3131 x239

By-law Enforcement
519-599-3131 x249

Chief Building Official
519-599-3131 x261

Zoning Coordinator
519-599-3131 x290

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