We are frequently asked when inspections are needed for building projects. A very good rule to follow: Do not cover any work unless the inspector has provided you with an approval. A 24 hour "Inspection Hotline" has been made available for your convenience (805) 875-8231. If your request is received prior to 7:00 a.m., the inspector will conduct the inspection that same day.Any inspections received after this time will be conducted the following work day. Building Inspectors are not available during weekends or holidays.

Grading Inspections

Approval of grading is required before the foundation inspection. Typically a grading inspection would require that certifications from the soils, civil, and when applicable geo-technical engineers have been received by the inspector. Site, pad, and form elevations (horizontal and vertical) must also be certified. Once all certification have been received and approved by the inspector, the actual site inspection can be conducted.

Foundation Inspection

Foundation inspection requests should be made after grading inspection and once all certification mentioned above have been received by the building inspector (small projects such as room additions, or tenant improvements may not require some or all the certifications). Foundation inspections should be requested after excavations for footings are complete, reinforcing steel is in place; all forms are in place and secured; grounding electrode has been installed; underground work completed and inspected; and property lines/easements identified for inspector.

Concrete Slab or Under-Floor Inspection

To be made after under-slab or under-floor building service equipment, conduit, piping, accessories, and other ancillary equipment items are in place but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing installed, including the sub-floor.

Frame Inspection

Requests should be made after the roof, framing, fire blocking, and bracing/sheathing, shear transfer are in place; all pipes, chimneys, and vents are complete; the rough electrical, plumbing, and heating, wires, pipes and ducts have been installed/approved.

Lath and/or Wallboard Inspection

To be made after lathing and wall board, interior and exterior, is in place but before plaster is applied, or before wallboard joints and fasteners are taped and finished.

Final Inspection

To be made after finish grading certification, once the building is completed and ready for occupancy.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our counter staff for assistance. Counter staff can be reached Monday through Friday from 8AM to 5PM at 805-875-8220, or by emailing our general mailbox at building@ci.lompoc.ca.us.