Inspections for homeowners
Book an inspection
Homeowners
Homeowners can book inspections for:
- Building permits
- Electrical permits
- Plumbing permits
Inspections occur Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Book online using the Inspections Booking System. You will need a JAC to book your inspection.
Once your building, electrical or plumbing permit has been issued, book and manage your inspections through the Inspections Booking System, using your myID account. Our enhanced website provides a more streamlined experience for homeowners to better manage their inspections. Homeowners can book, reschedule or cancel your inspections all through the online tool using your myID account.
Support
Virtual and in-person inspections
The City is now able to resume in-person site inspections in residential properties. Video Inspections are still available; however, to provide the best customer service, the Inspector will decide which type of inspection to use based on the permit type and availability.
After you book your inspection, the inspector will walk you through the video inspection process.
For a video inspection, you will need:
- The Google Meet App. The Google Meet App can be downloaded from iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
- A camera-enabled mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet.
- A strong Wi-Fi or mobile connection on your device.
- A flashlight, portable construction light, tape measure and multi-bit tool, depending on your type of inspection.
If you don’t have these things available, we recommend you get someone to help. This could be your contractor or someone else in your household. Otherwise, you can delay your inspection to a later date.
When it’s time for your inspection:
- You will receive a phone call from the inspector to confirm you are ready for the inspection. Once complete, the inspector will video call you through Google Duo to start the inspection.
- During the inspection, move the camera in slow, steady movements as the inspector directs.
- We will likely have you scan the room to ensure we don’t miss anything.
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Sign in to your myID account to book your inspection
Inspection documents
If an inspection document is required, please submit it before requesting an inspection. If you applied through ePermit, upload your inspection documents in ePermit.
Pre-inspection documents
Examples of pre-inspection documents include:
- Quick trench photos - provide before requesting the pre-backfill inspection on a single construction permit (new house construction). If you applied through ePermit, upload the photos. All photos must be in .pdf format.
- Soil bearing report- provide before requesting the pre-board phase inspection on a single construction permit (new house construction).
- Hydronic heating certified design - if you are installing hydronic heating, upload the certified design documents to ePermit. For permits that are not applied through ePermit, email your documents to plumbing and gas inspection prior to the inspection with the permit number. Otherwise, ensure you have a hard copy on site at the time of inspection.
Documents needed at inspection
Cancel or reschedule an inspection
Homeowners who booked their inspection using the Inspections Booking System can cancel or reschedule their inspection using the online tool. Please be advised that 24 hours’ notice would be appreciated when canceling or rescheduling an inspection.
Permit expiry
If you have received an expiry letter and are not ready for an inspection before the expiry date, review extension and reinstatement information at permit changes - manage your permit application.
Types of inspections
Please ensure that you meet all applicable requirements before the inspection. Please note that the inspection process is dynamic, and an inspection outcome depends on the construction method and site conditions at the time of inspection. The information provided below is a general list of inspection requirements. It may not include all necessary items.
Please submit all required pre-inspection documents for your permit.
Home improvement permits
In most cases, only one inspection a framing (rough-in) inspection is required to complete a residential improvement or renovations. Secondary suites are an exception and will always require two inspections. Please note, that there are cases where a safety code officer may determine that a second inspection is necessary.
Garages
Framing (rough-in) inspection requirements:
- The garage must be at lock-up stage, where all doors and windows are properly installed, with the building secure and the site safe.
- Garages can be built into the side yard, close to the property line. Fire rating standards must be completed, with fire-rated materials installed.
- The garage inspection can occur when the project is complete, or at the framing stage when doors and windows are installed.
- Rough-in, install and complete all electrical components that are required under associated permits.
Uncovered decks and balconies
Framing (rough-in) inspection requirements:
- Complete the deck structure, handrail and stairs.
- Ensure there is access to the structural components under the deck such as beams, posts, and joists.
Home renovations and basements
Framing (rough-in) inspection requirements:
- Install and complete any structural changes.
- Install and complete all the wall and ceiling framing.
- Install proposed windows and exterior doors.
- Install and complete any HVAC changes.
- Rough-in, install and complete all plumbing and electrical components that are required under associated permits.
Retaining walls
Framing (rough-in) inspection requirements:
- Complete the retaining wall.
- Install guards.
Additions
Framing (rough-in) inspection requirements:
- Install and complete any structural changes.
- Install and complete all the wall and ceiling framing.
- Install proposed windows and exterior doors.
- Install and complete any HVAC changes.
- Rough-in, install and complete all plumbing and electrical components that are required under associated permits.
- Do not install insulation, vapour barrier or drywall over any work that requires inspection prior to concealing.
Heating, cooling and ventilation
Framing (rough-in) inspection requirements:
- Install and complete and structural changes.
- Install and complete the wall and ceiling, and as well the framing for the fireplace.
- If fire rating is required, please ensure it is in place for the inspection.
- Install fireplace as per manufacturer’s installation instructions. Do not drywall or cover up until inspection has been completed.
- Install and complete all the walls and ceiling, and framing.
- Any gas lines that run to a fireplace must be done on a separate gas permit. Please be aware that an Alberta-certified journeyman gas fitter must install gas lines.
Hot tubs, pools and ponds
Final inspection requirements:
Hot tubs:
- Hot tubs must be ready to use.
- Locking cover is complete.
Pools:
- The pool must be ready to use.
- Fence and gate requirements are complete.
Secondary suites
Two inspections are required.
Framing (rough-in) inspection requirements:
- Install and complete any structural changes.
- Install and complete all the wall and ceiling framing.
- Install proposed windows and exterior doors.
- Install and complete any HVAC changes.
- Rough in, install and complete all plumbing and electrical components that are required under associated permits.
- Have requested documentation on site.
- Do not install insulation, vapour barrier or drywall over any work that requires inspection prior to concealing.
Final inspection requirement:
The construction should be completed and the suite should be ready for occupancy.
Existing construction
Building permit
All work requires a permit. If you don't obtain a proper permit and work has been completed; obtain the proper permit and call for an inspection. The building permit application can be submitted by the homeowner. The applicant must follow the same requirements as an application for new work. This process may require any work concealed by drywall to be exposed for inspection.
Visit calgary.ca/homeimprovement for information about your project.
Trade permit
Contractor trade permits, like electrical, plumbing, gas, or mechanical, must be obtained by a contractor if the work has been concealed. We cannot issue a homeowner's trade permit for work that was previously completed without the required trade permit. The homeowner must hire a licensed trade contractor to have the work inspected. The contractor must obtain the required permit and confirm that the work complies with all applicable codes. However, the homeowner is responsible for any previously concealed work.
After your inspections
Re-inspections
It’s our continued desire to have a close working relationship with the building industry and to further enhance the spirit of cooperation and respect for each other. To maintain our high level of inspection service and to reduce the number of unnecessary site inspections, we can issue a re-inspection fee for the following reasons:
- Failure to fully correct any previously noted deficiency recorded in the inspection report.
- Disregard by the contractor/owner to ensure correction of a deficiency or to provide a document requested through an inspection or plans examination report.
- Incorrect inspection address is supplied to The City.
- Work is not ready for inspection on requested inspection date.
- Failure of contractor/owner to ensure safe accessibility to an inspection site.
- If the work to be inspected has been covered or concealed prior to the inspection.
As of January 1st, 2022, the re-inspection fee has been reduced from $338 to $163.50. This change is reflected in the building and trade permit fee schedule. Additionally, customers can now pay their re-inspection fee via the shopping cart using your VISTA or myID account following these instructions:
- Visit the shopping cart.
- Click the Vista or myID User Access sign in button to begin.
- Sign in with their user access credentials.
- Click on pending fees tile.
- Select fee and click add to cart.
- Enter payment information.
- Press pay now.
In alignment with Safety Codes Permit Bylaw (39M2018), there is no longer an appeal period for a re-inspection fee. All inquiries regarding a re-inspection fee will be directed to the Safety Codes Officer whose information will appear on the notice email.
Inspection outcomes
If an inspection document is required, please submit it before requesting an inspection. If you applied through ePermit, upload your inspection documents in ePermit.
Inspection outcomes
There are different inspection types. Review the requirements for your project.
A City of Calgary Safety codes officer or development inspector will complete a review and note all deficiencies. An inspection may have one of the following outcomes. For more information about the coordination of multiple permits, read about permits and the review process.
Permit Services Reports are produced once all inspections are completed. The report summarizes inspection outcomes and explains the resulting permit condition(s). Permit Services Reports are available upon request to property owners and permit holders. To request a Permit Services Report log into VISTA or contact the Planning Services Centre.
| Outcomes | Home improvements |
|---|---|
| Acceptable | You do not have any deficiencies that require correction at this point. Proceed to next phase if needed. |
| Acceptable with conditions | Minor deficiencies have been found, but don't require a re-inspection. It is the owner's responsibility to correct these deficiencies. Proceed to next phase with conditions to be corrected before next inspection. |
| Not acceptable | Multiple items need correction. A re-inspection or accepted VOC is necessary before proceeding. |
| Verification of compliance (VOC) |
Deficiencies have been found. A re-inspection is not required if the deficiencies are corrected and the VOC letter is signed by the property owner, property owner representative, or contractor, and accepted by The City. Please see your verification of compliance (VOC) form for submission options. |
| Not required | A site inspection will not be done. Proceed to the next phase of construction. Trade permit: Homeowner would be notified by phone if an inspection was requested, but not required. |
| Cancelled by contractor | Inspection was cancelled prior to 8 a.m. the day of the scheduled inspection. |
Post-inspection documents
The inspector may ask you to submit documents following an inspection. For example, during an inspection, the inspector will identify items that must be corrected to comply with the applicable codes and standards. In place of a re-inspection, the inspector may provide an option to submit a verification of compliance (VOC). This document lists the infractions found during the inspection. Once the deficiencies are fixed, the property owner, property owner representative, or contractor, shall sign and submit the VOC to The City.
Please see your verification of compliance (VOC) form for submission options. If submitting via ePermit, upload the signed VOC.
Safety concerns and complaints
Land Use Bylaw complaints
The city's inspections team ensures that development aligns with necessary approvals, including the Land Use Bylaw, the Municipal Government Act, and any other applicable legislation. We rely heavily on education and awareness to encourage compliance. When necessary, however, we may issue stop work orders, violation tickets, and/or take other legal action.
To make a complaint regarding Land Use Bylaw infractions, please contact the Planning Services Centre at 403-268-5311 or chat with us.
Unsafe conditions
Construction sites
Safety is our number one priority. As a member of the Coordinated Safety Response Team, we collaborate with the provincial government and law enforcement to investigate and respond to potentially unsafe sites. Please visit Calgary construction and public safety for more information.
Rental units
Complaints related to building safety issues in a rental unit can be investigated by contacting 311. Before calling, please:
- Ensure you provided written notification about your concern to the landlord.
- Be prepared to provide us with the landlord’s telephone number.
- Arrange access to the property for the safety codes officer.
More information for landlords and tenants is available through the provincial government and The Centre for Public and Legal Education Alberta. Learn about minimum housing and health standards.
More information is also available about filing other types of complaints with The City.
Working without a permit
These inspections are conducted by a safety codes officer for work which has been started without the proper permits. If there are infractions, the inspector will issue warnings or potential fines until the necessary permits are obtained.
To file a complaint regarding work without a permit, please contact 311 or download the Calgary 311 mobile app. To follow up on a notice regarding building without a permit, please contact the inspector listed on the notice document.
Planning Services Centre
Hours:
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. (MT)
Live chat:
calgary.ca/livechat
Call:
403-268-5311
In person:
Planning Services Centre,
3rd floor, Municipal building
800 Macleod Trail SE
Book an eAppointment for in person services at appointment.calgary.ca
Trade Permit Centre
Hours:
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. (MT)
Email:
Trade.permits@calgary.ca
Call:
403-268-1488
In person:
Planning Services Centre,
3rd floor, Municipal Building
800 Macleod Trail S.E.