Construction and Building Inspector how-to
How to Perform a Residential Framing Inspection
The framing inspection happens before insulation and drywall cover everything up.
The framing inspection happens before insulation and drywall cover everything up. In short: verify; compare; check, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Verify that prior inspections (foundation, rough-ins) were approved as required.
Compare the framing against the approved plans: wall locations, openings and beams.
Check headers, beams, posts and the continuous load path to the foundation.
Inspect nailing, anchors and hold-downs where specified.
Check stairs, guards and handrails for dimensions.
Verify fire blocking, draft stopping and notching or boring limits.
Approve or issue a correction notice with clear code references.
Safety reminders for construction and building inspectors
- Wear a hard hat, safety boots and high-visibility clothing on job sites
- Watch for open floor edges, holes and unstable ladders
- Don’t enter unsafe excavations or structures
- Coordinate with the site supervisor about active hazards
Key terms
IBC · IRC · Building permit · Plan review · Certificate of occupancy (CO) · Correction notice: see the full construction and building inspector glossary.