Navigating the maze of building inspections in Tampa? You’re in luck. We’ve curated a comprehensive checklist for all the building required inspections you’ll need. Staying informed and prepared is half the battle in ensuring a smooth construction process. Please refer to the City of Tampa Municode [SECTION 5-109. INSPECTIONS] for additional information and details.
Building Inspections
1. Foundation Inspection
- When? After trenches are excavated and forms erected.
- What to Check?
- Stem-wall
- Monolithic slab-on-grade
- Piling/pile caps
- Footers/grade beams
- Seawalls
2. Slab Inspection
- When? After reinforcement is in place, concealed utilities are installed, and all mechanical work is done.
- Special Note: Ensure a foundation survey by a registered surveyor before framing inspection. Additionally, for constructions in “A” or “V” flood zones, a flood elevation certificate is mandatory.
3. Tie Beam Inspection
- When? After masonry walls and reinforcements are set.
4. Seawall Inspection
- When? After setting up forms, dowels, and structural steel but before pouring concrete.
5. Framing Inspection
- When? After the roof, all framing, and all concealed utilities are complete.
- What to Check?
- Window/door framing
- Vertical cells/columns
- Lintel/tie beams
- Framing/trusses/bracing/connectors
- Draft stopping/fire-blocking
- Curtain wall framing
- Energy insulation
- Accessibility
6. Insulation Inspection
- When? After the framing inspection gets the green light.
7. Fire-Resistant Protection Inspection
- When? After fire-resistant materials are installed but before finishes.
8. Sheathing/Cladding Inspection
- When? After all sheathing and fasteners are installed.
- What to Check?
- Roof sheathing
- Wall sheathing
- Sheathing fasteners
- Roof/wall dry-ins
- Window/door setups
9. Roofing Inspection
- What to Check?
- Dry-in
- Insulation
- Roof coverings
- Flashings
10. Final Building Inspection
- When? When the structure is complete and ready for occupancy.
Specialty Inspections
11. Swimming Pool Inspection
Ensure safety features are in compliance with Section 424.2.17, Florida Building Code.
12. Demolition Inspections
Check utility disconnections, erosion control, and tree barricades.
13. Manufactured Building Inspections
Ensure compliance with the Florida Building Code, especially for public educational facilities.
14. Impact-Resistant Coverings Inspection
Ensure systems are as indicated on plans and follow manufacturer’s instructions. For assistance with wind load calculations, we can help. In certain areas, specialty engineer wind analysis and certifications may be needed.
Utility Inspections
- Electrical: Include underground, rough-in, and final inspections.
- Plumbing: Incorporate underground, rough-in/tub set, and final inspections.
- Mechanical: Cover underground, rough-in, and final inspections.
Concluding Thoughts
Timely and accurate inspections are the backbone of any construction project in Tampa or any other location. Missing an inspection can delay projects and often results in increased costs. When inspections are overlooked or not passed, engineer letters may be required to validate the integrity of the work. Therefore, staying on top of these inspections and understanding their significance is pivotal for a hassle-free construction journey.
Reach out to a trusted local professional to guide you through the nuances of each inspection and ensure your project runs seamlessly from start to finish.