Mastering Building Inspections

A successful inspection can make or break a commercial construction project. You rely on your general contractor to schedule, manage and oversee the inspection process -- and to address any issues. Selecting a GC who nurtures the relationship with the inspector can lead to project success.

Ask your GC what their strategy is for collaborating with inspectors. At Peter Schwabe, Inc., we invest in building strong relationships with all our project partners. Here are some of our standards for working with inspectors.

Be Courteous - Establishing a positive and professional relationship with inspectors from the outset can go a long way in fostering cooperation and mutual respect. Treat inspectors with courtesy, listen to their feedback and address any concerns they may have promptly and professionally.

Communicate Early and Often - Maintain open lines of communication with inspectors throughout the construction process. Notify them in advance of key project milestones, such as when specific phases of construction will be ready for inspection. Be proactive in addressing any issues or questions they may have.

Conduct Routine Inspections – Ensure ongoing work meets project specifications and regulatory requirements. Implement a proactive quality control process to identify and address potential issues before inspections occur. Regularly assess construction progress, quality and compliance; proactively address any issues before formal inspections occur.

Coordinate Inspection Schedules – Give plenty of notice when scheduling inspections with third-party inspectors to minimize delays and keep the project on track for timely completion.

Provide Comprehensive Documentation – Compile and organize detailed documentation for inspections, including permits, plans, specifications, approvals, changes, subcontractor agreements and correspondence with inspectors. Having thorough documentation can help resolve potential disputes and demonstrate transparency and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Accompany Inspectors During Site Visits – Accompany inspectors during site visits to provide additional context, answer questions and gain a better understanding of any identified issues. Clarify questions or concerns about specific code requirements or inspection findings. Address any uncertainties upfront rather than risk non-compliance or misunderstandings later in the project. Facilitate communication, address concerns in real-time and ensure a thorough assessment of construction activities.

Address Inspector Feedback Promptly – Take prompt action to address any deficiencies or concerns identified during inspections. Collaborate closely with subcontractors and other project stakeholders to efficiently resolve issues and maintain project momentum.

Stay Professional and Patient – The inspection process can sometimes be challenging, especially if it results in unexpected findings. Remain professional, patient, and respectful in your interactions. Remember that inspectors are tasked with ensuring public safety and compliance with regulations. The very nature of their job is to assess a property with a critical eye.

With proactive engagement and collaborative efforts, general contractors, project leads/owners and inspectors can work together to achieve shared goals, facilitate smooth and successful construction projects, and deliver safe, high-quality buildings on schedule.

At Peter Schwabe, Inc., we have extensive experience in commercial construction and working with inspectors. We can help you with all aspects of your project. Contact Michael Gilbert, Director of Business Development, at 262-352-9786 or mgilbert@pschwabe.com to get started today!