Inspections Last updated or reviewed on March 20, 2026 How and When to Schedule an Inspection We perform inspections Monday through Friday, between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. You can book your inspection in two ways: Online: Use the Citizen Access website. You must log in to your account. To get next-day service, please book before 6:00 p.m. By Phone: Call us at (828) 259-5946. To get next-day service, please call before 4:30 p.m. If you are not sure how to use the website, read our guide on how to schedule inspections online. Inspection Wait Times We schedule inspections based on the type of work being done. Please see the wait times below: Next Business Day Building inspections Trade inspections (like electrical, plumbing, or heating) Wait 2 Business Days Driveways: Both home (residential) and business (commercial) Public Sidewalks Ground Work: Grading, soil erosion, and stormwater Wait 3 Business Days Zoning Landscaping Please note: The Public Works department handles all inspections for commercial driveways and public sidewalks How to Request a Remote Inspection Following NC Code Officials Qualification Board guidance, contractors may schedule inspections online by phone and ask for a remote inspection in their request. A remote inspection is done using a video call instead of a person coming to your site. What Can Be Done Remotely? Plumbing: Sewer and water trenches (up to 100 feet) or shower pans. Heating and Cooling (HVAC): Replacing units for houses or townhomes (unless they use gas). Solar Power: Electrical work for rooftop solar panels on homes. Building: Porch columns or connecting sections of a manufactured home. Homestays: Inspections for short-term rentals. Fixing Small Problems: Re-inspections for up to four minor issues that are not safety risks. This includes things like insulation, framing, or final plumbing checks that were already looked at once. What Cannot Be Done Remotely? Safety Risks: Any inspection involving “life safety” (dangerous items). Utilities: Most electrical work, gas lines, or appliance vents. The Ground: Grading, soil erosion, and stormwater. Outdoor Areas: Driveways and flood-zone checks. How to Do a Remote Inspection If you choose a video inspection, it is your responsibility to be ready. Please follow these steps: Before the Inspection Get the App: Download Google Meet and learn how to use it. Check Your Signal: Make sure you have a strong cell phone signal at the job site. Gather Your Tools: Have everything ready to show the inspector, such as: A tape measure and level. An electrical (GFCI) tester and a ladder. Your permit, site plans, and the manual for any equipment you installed. During the Inspection The Call: The inspector will call you to set a specific time for the video chat. The Connection: At that time, the inspector will start a video call with you using Google Meet. The Location: You must show the inspector the street address on the building to prove where you are. The Walkthrough: The inspector will tell you exactly what to show them and where to point your camera. Finishing Up Once the inspector has seen everything, they will hang up. They will then update your permit records with the results and any notes. Resources Guide to Scheduling Inspections Online Guide to Required Residential Inspections Inspector Directory Design Professional Acceptance Form
