Tips for dealing with a challenging building inspector

We’ve all had one. A few things that make it easier:

• Pre-inspect everything. Walk the work with your trade before the inspector shows up and fix the obvious items. Fewer findings means fewer return visits.
• Have the paperwork ready. Approved drawings, engineer letters, test reports and product data on site, organised and easy to hand over.
• Walk with them. Be there for the inspection, take notes and answer questions on the spot.
• Ask for the code reference. Politely ask which code section each deficiency relates to, and get the list in writing. It keeps things objective and helps you fix it right the first time.
• Book properly. Use a formal request for inspection so it’s clear what’s ready to be inspected and what isn’t.
• Escalate only if needed. If requirements go beyond the code, have a calm conversation with the chief building official. Keep it professional, as you’ll likely see that inspector again.

Most of the time a thorough inspector is just being careful. Making their job easy usually speeds things up.