Along with production schedules and safety information, the bulletin board we post at jobsites now includes a list of the most common inspection failures in Montgomery County, Md., where we do much of our business. Since posting the list, we've achieved a nearly 100% inspection pass rate — even in other counties. Before calling the inspector, make sure you can answer “yes” to:
Is the inspection scheduled properly?Are the approved plans on site?Does the work conform to the approved plans?Are the footings deep enough, the right size, and on stable soil?Is the low framing pressure-treated lumber?Is positive drainage provided?Are the connection details and materials adequate and to code?Does the heavy-up have enough working clearance?Are the water and sewage pipes below the electrical panel?Are the grounding and bonding to code?Is there enough clearance for equipment installed in the attic?Is there enough clearance around combustibles?Were manufacturers' installation instructions followed?Are the exterior stairs illuminated?—Andy Hannan is the production manager of Mark IV Builders, Bethesda, Md.