Inspections

How to Schedule an Inspection

Inspections can be scheduled online before 6:00 p.m. through the Citizen Access site (login required).

Inspections can be scheduled by phone before 4:30 p.m. by calling 828-259-5946.

For details on how to schedule an online inspection, review How to Schedule Inspections Online.

Inspection types are scheduled as follows:

  • Building and trade inspections the next business day.
  • Grading, soil erosion, and stormwater inspections in two (2) business days.
  • Zoning and landscaping inspections in three (3) business days.
  • Residential driveway inspections in two (2) business days.
  • Commercial driveway inspections in two (2) business days (performed by Public Works).
  • Public sidewalk inspections in two (2) business days (Performed by Public Works).

How to Request a Remote Inspection

In accordance with NC Code Officials Qualification Board guidance, contractors may schedule inspections online or call-in as usual and ask for a Remote Inspection in the inspection request. 

The following inspections are eligible to be performed via Remote Inspection:

  • Sewer and water trench up to 100 feet – rough-in plumbing (partial inspection)
  • Shower pan – rough-in plumbing (partial inspection)
  • Residential HVAC change out for 1-2 family dwellings/townhomes (except gas) 
  • Residential PV solar rooftop systems – rough-in electrical
  • Residential porch columns – building framing (partial inspection)
  • Manufactured home marriage line connection – final set-up inspection
  • Homestays
  • Re-inspections for up to four (4) non-life safety code violations when not first-time inspections; no additional work can be inspected than what was previously inspected
    • Footing, Foundation, Slab, Building, Framing, Insulation, Rough-in Plumbing, Rough-in Mechanical, Final Plumbing, Final Mechanical, Final Building
  • Re–inspections if deemed minor and not life safety

The following inspections are not eligible for remote inspections:

  • Electrical (except rooftop PV systems or HVAC mechanical changeouts), gas or appliance ventilation
  • Grading
  • Erosion control
  • Stormwater
  • Driveway 
  • Flood
  • Inspections deemed life safety

How to Conduct a Remote Inspection

The customer is responsible for the following for a remote inspection:

  • Download and be familiar with the Google Meet application
  • Adequate cell service must be available at the inspection site
  • Have all necessary tools and documents available, such as a tape measure, level, GFCI tester, step ladder, manufacturer’s installation instructions, permit and site plans, etc.
    1. The inspector will call ahead to schedule an inspection time.
    2. At the inspection time, the inspector will video connect with the contractor using Google Meet
    3. The inspector will direct the contractor to verify the inspection location (i.e., using the street address on building, etc.).
    4. The inspector will direct the contractor to properly perform the inspection
    5. The inspector will close the video meeting and update the permit record with notes and inspection result(s).

Resources

How to Schedule Inspections Online

Guide to Required Residential Inspections

Inspector Directory

Design Professional Acceptance Form