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Project Management

Inspection

In Plain English

A formal review of construction work to confirm it meets approved plans and building codes.

Definition

An inspection in the construction context is a formal review of work by an authorized inspector — from the building department, architect, engineer, owner's representative, or third-party special inspection agency — to verify compliance with approved plans, specifications, and codes. Required inspections are defined by the building permit and must be called for and passed before covering work or proceeding to the next phase.

Why It Matters in Bidding

Inspections gate the schedule because work cannot be covered or advanced until required reviews pass, so estimators and project managers must build inspection hold points and potential re-inspection time into the schedule of values and the bid. Missed or failed inspections cause rework, delay draw payments, and can trigger liquidated damages, all of which affect cash flow and final cost.

Example

The superintendent schedules the rough-in inspection before the drywall sub mobilizes, knowing that covering framing, plumbing, and electrical without a passed inspection would force a costly tear-out.

Related Terms

Final InspectionBuilding PermitQuality ControlConstruction Administration

Frequently Asked Questions

The building permit lists required inspections such as footing, foundation, rough-in, and final, but private projects may add architect, owner-representative, and third-party special inspections for items like welds, concrete, and fireproofing. Estimators build in time and any special-inspection agency fees so inspection holds do not surprise the schedule.
The inspector issues a correction notice listing deficiencies that must be fixed and re-inspected before work proceeds. Failed inspections cost crew downtime, re-inspection fees in some jurisdictions, and schedule slippage, and they can delay the payment application tied to that phase of the schedule of values.
Special inspections such as structural steel, concrete testing, and fireproofing are usually contracted and paid by the owner under code requirements, though the contract should state this clearly. Contractors still bear the cost of supporting access and any rework, so the responsibility split is worth confirming during the bid review.

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