Nothing stops a construction project faster than a stop-work order. These frustrating delays often stem from one simple source: a problem with the building permit inspection card. This card is the official logbook for your project, and an inspector won’t even begin their review without it. It’s the central communication tool between you, your contractor, and the building department, showing that every phase of your work meets Florida’s strict safety codes. Understanding its role is key to avoiding costly fines and setbacks. We’ll walk you through how to manage your card, prepare for inspections, and keep your project on schedule and on budget.
Key Takeaways
- Treat Your Inspection Card as the Official Project Record: This card is the running log that proves each stage of your work is code-compliant. An inspector’s signature is the only legal approval to move forward, making it the most critical communication tool between you, your contractor, and the building department.
- Master the Process to Avoid Common Roadblocks: Most delays stem from predictable issues like incomplete paperwork, missed deadlines, or misinterpreting inspector feedback. Stay ahead by double-checking all applications, keeping the card protected and visible on-site, and understanding your local scheduling system before you need it.
- Prepare for Each Inspection to Keep Your Project Moving: A failed inspection means stop-work orders and costly rework. Ensure a passing grade by making the site clean and accessible, having approved plans ready for review, and communicating professionally with the inspector to clarify any required corrections on the spot.
What Is a Building Permit Inspection Card?
Think of a building permit inspection card as the official report card for your construction project. It’s a document, usually posted in a visible spot on the job site, that serves as physical proof that you have a valid permit. More importantly, it acts as a running log for every official inspection your project needs to pass. Each time an inspector visits and approves a stage of your work—whether it’s the foundation, framing, or electrical—they’ll sign off on the card.
This simple piece of paper is the official record that your project is following local building codes and safety regulations. It’s the central communication tool between you, your contractor, and the building department. Without it, there’s no official way to track your progress and prove that you’re building everything to code. Our team handles the entire permitting process to ensure you get this card in hand without any frustrating delays, so your project can start on the right foot.
Why Your Project Can’t Proceed Without One
That inspection card is more than just paperwork; it’s your legal green light to continue working. Construction projects are broken down into phases, and you can’t move on to the next one until the previous stage has been inspected and approved. For example, you can’t put up drywall until the electrical and plumbing work behind it has been signed off on. The inspector’s signature on your card is the only thing that allows you to proceed.
Many people underestimate which projects need a permit. It’s not just for new builds. A kitchen remodel that alters plumbing or a project that involves small structural changes will require inspections. Trying to move forward without a signed-off inspection card can result in a stop-work order, which halts all activity on your site immediately. Getting the card itself can be a hurdle if your initial application is incomplete or incorrect. You can request a proposal to see how we can manage your application and keep your project on schedule.
Florida’s Legal Requirements for Inspection Cards
Here in Florida, the rules are very clear: your building permit inspection card must be displayed on the job site at all times. It needs to be protected from the weather but easily accessible to inspectors when they arrive. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a legal requirement. An inspector won’t even begin their review if they can’t find the card.
After an inspector completes their assessment and confirms the work meets the required codes, they will sign and date the card. This signature is your official approval for that specific phase of construction. It’s important to remember that passing one inspection doesn’t mean the rest of your project is automatically approved. Each major step requires its own sign-off. Keeping this card visible and up-to-date is essential for a smooth, compliant, and successful build anywhere in the state of Florida.
How to Read Your Inspection Card
At first glance, a building permit inspection card can look like a confusing grid of boxes and official jargon. But think of it as your project’s report card—it’s a living document that tracks your progress and proves you’re meeting Florida’s building codes every step of the way. Understanding how to read this card is essential for keeping your project on track and avoiding unnecessary delays. It tells you, your contractor, and the building inspector exactly what’s been approved and what’s next on the list. Let’s break down the key sections so you can read your card with confidence.
Finding Your Permit Number and Project Details
The top of your inspection card contains all the vital statistics for your project. Here, you’ll find your unique permit number, the property address, and the name of the contractor on record. It will also include a brief description of the scope of work, like “kitchen remodel” or “new roof installation.” This section is your project’s official ID.
It’s important to remember what this permit represents. A permit doesn’t guarantee the quality of the workmanship; its purpose is to verify that the plans meet minimum code compliance. This ensures the project is structurally sound and safe for occupancy. When you partner with a permit expediter, we handle the paperwork to ensure all these details are accurate from the start, laying the groundwork for a smooth permitting process.
Tracking Your Inspection Schedule
Your inspection card is also a roadmap for your project’s timeline. It will list all the required inspections for your specific type of construction. Since each phase of a construction project may require its own inspection, you’ll see entries for everything from the foundation and framing to the electrical and plumbing systems.
As your project moves forward, this section of the card gets updated. An inspector will sign or stamp the corresponding box after each inspection is approved, showing that you have the green light to proceed to the next phase. This creates a clear, official record of your project’s progress. Keeping this schedule organized is critical, and it’s one of the key areas where our team can help you avoid costly delays.
What Do Inspector Signatures and Codes Mean?
An inspector’s signature is the approval you’re looking for. It means a specific stage of your project has passed inspection and meets all relevant codes. However, you might also see notes, correction notices, or specific codes written on the card. These indicate that an issue was found that needs to be fixed before you can get approval.
Pay close attention to these notes. If a discrepancy is found between the construction and the permit documents, an inspector has the authority to shut down all work on your project until the problem is resolved. Even for small home projects, permits are legally required if the work affects structural systems or safety. Ignoring an inspector’s feedback can lead to fines, rework, and significant setbacks, turning a simple issue into a major headache.
How to Get Your Florida Building Permit Inspection Card
Getting your hands on that all-important inspection card involves a few key steps with your local building department. While the specifics can vary slightly from county to county, the general process remains the same across the state. It’s all about submitting the right application, providing detailed plans, and paying the required fees. The journey from application to approved permit card can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling other aspects of your project. But breaking it down into manageable steps makes it much clearer. Let’s walk through exactly what that looks like.
The Local Building Department Application Process
Your first stop is your local building department. This is where you’ll submit your building permit application, usually through an online portal or via email. For example, cities like Homestead require you to email your application and construction documents, after which a permit clerk assigns a processing number and sends your plans for review. This review stage is critical—plan processors in every jurisdiction, from Tampa to Orlando, will check your documents to ensure they meet state and local regulations. This step confirms that your project is designed safely and up to code before any work begins.
Gathering Your Documents and Paying Fees
Before you can submit your application, you’ll need to have all your paperwork in order. This typically includes detailed construction plans and any other required documents specific to your project. Once your plans are reviewed and approved, you’ll be prompted to pay the permit fee. Some departments may ask for an upfront fee just for the plan review. After payment, your permit and inspection card will be issued. For larger projects, keep in mind there might be extra steps. In Miami-Dade County, for instance, if the work is valued at over $5,000, you must record a Notice of Commencement before scheduling inspections. If you’re feeling unsure about what you need, you can always request a proposal to get expert guidance.
Let Us Handle the Paperwork for You
Navigating the permit application process can be time-consuming, and mistakes can lead to frustrating delays. While many Florida building departments now offer online portals like Palm Bay’s ePermitHub to streamline submissions, the system can still be tricky. You have to make sure every form is correct and every plan is formatted properly. If you’d rather focus on your project instead of the paperwork, letting a professional handle it is a great option. Our team at All Florida Permits specializes in managing these exact permitting services. We work directly with local building departments across the state to ensure your application is submitted correctly and processed as quickly as possible.
What Inspections Will Your Project Need?
Think of your building permit as a ticket to the main event, but the inspection card is your all-access pass to each stage of the show. Every major construction project, from a new build to a significant renovation, requires a series of inspections to ensure the work is safe and meets Florida’s building codes. The specific inspections you’ll need depend entirely on the scope of your project, but they generally follow the construction timeline.
An inspector needs to sign off on each critical phase before you can move on to the next. Forgetting or failing an inspection can bring your entire project to a halt. Understanding the typical inspection sequence helps you plan your schedule, coordinate with your contractors, and avoid frustrating delays. Below are the most common inspections you can expect for residential and commercial projects.
Foundation and Structural Checks
Before you can build up, you have to get the down-low right. Foundation and structural inspections are among the first and most critical checks. An inspector will need to verify footings, slabs, and foundation walls before any concrete is poured. Once the framing is up, they’ll return to check the structural integrity of the walls, floors, and roof systems before any insulation or drywall is installed. It’s crucial to get this right from the start; assuming one permit covers all structural work is a common mistake that leads to rejections. Our comprehensive services ensure you have the correct permits for every phase, so your project starts on solid ground.
Electrical and Plumbing Sign-Offs
Once the structural frame is approved, it’s time to inspect the systems that bring your building to life. Electrical and plumbing inspections happen at the “rough-in” stage—after the wires, pipes, and ducts are installed but before the walls are closed up. An inspector will check everything from the wiring and breaker boxes to the plumbing lines and ventilation to ensure they meet safety codes. Even smaller remodels in kitchens or bathrooms that alter plumbing or electrical layouts require a permit and inspection. These checks are non-negotiable for safety and are legally required to ensure the building is safe for occupancy.
Final Inspection and Your Certificate of Occupancy
The final inspection is the last hurdle before you can officially use your new space. As you’ve learned, each phase of a construction project requires its own inspection, and this last one is the most comprehensive. The inspector will walk through the completed project to verify that everything is finished according to the approved plans and meets all code requirements. This includes checking safety features like smoke detectors, handrails, and GFCI outlets. Once you pass the final inspection, you’ll be issued a Certificate of Occupancy (CO), which legally allows the building to be occupied. If you want to ensure a smooth journey from groundbreaking to final approval, request a proposal and let us manage the process for you.
Common Roadblocks with Inspection Cards
Getting your inspection card is a huge step, but it’s not the finish line. The inspection process itself is where many projects, big and small, hit frustrating and expensive snags. From simple paperwork mistakes to complex code interpretations, a number of issues can pop up and throw your entire timeline off track. It’s one thing to have the permit in hand; it’s another to successfully pass every required check without a hitch. Understanding these common roadblocks is the first step to avoiding them and keeping your project moving forward.
The good news is that these challenges are predictable and, with the right preparation, entirely manageable. Whether it’s a missing signature on a form, a miscommunication with an inspector, or a deadline that sneaks up on you, knowing what to look out for can make the difference between a smooth project and one bogged down by stop-work orders and costly revisions. The key is to treat the inspection phase with the same attention to detail as the planning and building phases. Let’s walk through the most frequent hurdles contractors and homeowners face in Florida so you can be ready to clear them with confidence.
Missing Paperwork and Application Errors
It often comes down to the details. A single missing document or a typo on an application can bring your project to a screeching halt. Submitting an incomplete permit application is one of the most common mistakes that can lead to outright rejections or significant delays. Before you even think about scheduling an inspection, you have to ensure every form is filled out correctly and all required documents—like architectural plans or engineering reports—are included. Each municipality in Florida has its own specific requirements, and what works in Miami might not fly in Jacksonville. This variation makes it easy to overlook a crucial piece of the puzzle. Double-checking every line item is essential. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of paperwork, our team offers comprehensive services to manage the entire application process for you, ensuring nothing gets missed.
Juggling Deadlines and Payments
The construction world moves fast, and the permitting process is no exception. Your inspection card is tied to a strict schedule of deadlines and required payments. Missing a fee payment can invalidate your permit, while failing to schedule an inspection at the right time can create a domino effect, delaying plumbers, electricians, and other trades. This is especially true if you haven’t proactively researched and incorporated the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements into your plans, which can extend the process significantly. Keeping track of these moving parts requires serious organization. You need to know when each inspection phase must be called in and ensure all associated fees are paid promptly. For many, managing this logistical puzzle on top of the actual construction work is a major source of stress. If you need help staying on track, you can request a proposal to see how we can streamline your project’s timeline.
Misinterpreting Codes and Inspector Feedback
Florida’s building codes are notoriously complex, and it’s easy to misinterpret a specific rule. Remember, a permit only confirms that your plans meet the minimum code compliance; it doesn’t guarantee the quality of the work. During an inspection, an official will verify that the on-site work matches the approved plans and adheres to every relevant regulation. Each phase of a construction project, from the foundation to the final walkthrough, may require its own separate inspection. When an inspector provides feedback or flags an issue, their notes can sometimes be technical or unclear. This can lead to confusion and incorrect fixes, resulting in a failed re-inspection. Building a good rapport with your inspector and asking for clarification is key. For complex projects, especially those involving older structures, understanding every nuance of the code is critical for success, such as with Florida’s building recertification requirements.
The Consequences of a Missing Inspection Card
Think of your inspection card as the official passport for your construction project. Without it, you can’t move forward, and trying to do so can lead to some serious headaches. It’s more than just a piece of paper posted on-site; it’s the official record that proves your project is following the approved plans and meeting Florida’s strict building codes. Misplacing it or failing to have it available for an inspector isn’t a minor slip-up—it can derail your entire project, costing you significant time and money.
Stop-Work Orders and Costly Fines
The most immediate consequence of a missing inspection card is a stop-work order. When an inspector arrives and can’t find the card, they have the authority to shut down your entire job site on the spot. This means all work must cease until the issue is resolved. Submitting an incomplete permit application is a common mistake that can lead to these kinds of interruptions. Beyond the halt in progress, you can also face hefty fines from your local building department. These penalties are designed to enforce compliance, and they can add up quickly, turning a simple oversight into a major financial burden.
How a Small Card Can Cause Major Project Delays
A stop-work order creates a domino effect of delays that can throw your project timeline completely off course. If an inspector finds a discrepancy between the construction and the permit documents—or can’t verify the project’s status because the card is missing—work may be shut down indefinitely. You’ll have to reschedule trades, potentially pushing their availability back by weeks or even months. Materials might sit exposed to the elements, and your project’s completion date gets pushed further into the future. Our permit expediting services are designed to prevent these exact kinds of frustrating and costly delays.
Long-Term Impacts on Property Value and Insurance
The problems caused by a missing inspection card don’t just disappear when construction is finished. Without a complete record of passed inspections, you can’t properly close out your permit. This can create major issues when you try to sell or refinance the property, as title companies and lenders will flag the open permit. It can also affect your homeowner’s insurance, as providers may deny claims related to unpermitted or uninspected work. A permit only verifies that your plans meet minimum code compliance; the signed-off inspection card is the proof that the work itself was actually checked and approved, which is critical for things like building recertification.
How to Manage Your Inspection Card on Site
Once you have your building permit inspection card, the next step is managing it properly on the job site. This isn’t just about tucking it away in a folder; this card is a living document that inspectors will need to access at every phase of your project. Keeping it visible, updated, and protected is a simple but crucial part of keeping your project on track and avoiding unnecessary delays. Think of it as the passport for your project—it needs to be handled with care from groundbreaking to final sign-off. Proper management shows inspectors that you’re organized, professional, and serious about compliance.
Where to Display Your Permit Card
Your permit card needs to be posted in a spot where it’s clearly visible from the street. The goal is to make it easy for the building inspector to find it immediately upon arriving at your site. Don’t make them hunt for it. A common practice is to place it in a front-facing window or attach it to a temporary post near the main entrance of the construction area. Remember, the permit card serves as a visible confirmation that your project has met the minimum code compliance for review. Displaying it prominently demonstrates transparency and readiness for inspection. A waterproof permit box mounted on a stake is a great investment. It keeps the card secure and visible, signaling to inspectors and neighbors alike that your work is authorized and above board.
Keeping Accurate Records of Each Inspection
Your inspection card is more than just a piece of paper; it’s the official record of your project’s progress. Each time an inspector visits and signs off on a phase, your card gets updated. It’s essential to keep this record pristine. Submitting incomplete or inaccurate information is a common misstep that can lead to significant delays, and a poorly managed inspection card can be a major source of this. To stay organized, get into the habit of taking a clear photo of the card after every successful inspection. Save these images in a dedicated digital folder for the project. This creates a backup in case the original card is lost or damaged. For complex projects, our team at All Florida Permits can help manage this documentation to ensure every detail is tracked correctly.
Protecting Your Card from Weather and Wear
Florida’s weather can be tough on paper. Between the intense sun, heavy rain, and high humidity, an unprotected inspection card won’t last long. A faded, warped, or water-damaged card can be impossible for an inspector to read, potentially causing them to fail the inspection or delay your project until a replacement is issued. Protecting your card is simple. The best method is to use a clear, weatherproof sleeve or a dedicated permit box. These are designed to shield the document from the elements while keeping it completely visible. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep moisture out. This small step ensures your permit card remains intact and legible throughout the entire construction process, preventing a minor issue from turning into a major headache.
Who Is Responsible for Scheduling Inspections?
One of the most common points of confusion during a construction project is figuring out who is responsible for scheduling inspections. Getting the timing right is crucial for keeping your project on track and avoiding frustrating delays. The short answer is that the permit holder is ultimately responsible, but in practice, this role is usually handled by your general contractor. They are the ones managing the day-to-day work and know exactly when a specific phase is complete and ready for the inspector’s review.
However, if you’re a homeowner acting as your own contractor (an owner-builder), then scheduling inspections falls squarely on your shoulders. Understanding this division of labor from the start helps ensure everyone is on the same page. It’s about clear communication and knowing who owns each step of the process. This clarity prevents critical inspections from being missed, which could otherwise bring your entire project to a halt.
Defining Roles: Contractor vs. Homeowner
Typically, your licensed contractor will handle all inspection scheduling. They coordinate with their subcontractors to ensure work is completed to code and then contact the local building department to arrange for the inspector to visit the site. This is part of the project management service you hire them for. It’s important to remember that a permit simply verifies that the planned work meets minimum code requirements; it doesn’t guarantee the quality of the contractor’s work. Your contract with them should outline their responsibilities, including managing the inspection process. If you’re an owner-builder, you’ll need to manage this yourself, which means staying on top of your project timeline and knowing when to make the call. Our team offers comprehensive services to help both contractors and homeowners manage these critical steps.
When to Schedule Each Phase of Inspection
You don’t just schedule one single inspection at the end of your project. Construction is a layered process, and as the saying goes, “Each phase of a construction project may require its own inspection.” Think of it as a series of checkpoints. You’ll need inspections for the foundation before you pour concrete, for the structural framing before you put up drywall, and for the rough-in of your electrical and plumbing systems before anything is covered up. The inspection card acts as your guide, listing the required inspections in the correct order. An inspector must sign off on one stage before you can proceed to the next. Scheduling an inspection too early or too late can cause significant delays and may even require you to undo completed work, which is a costly mistake.
How to Use Online Scheduling Systems
Most Florida building departments now use online portals to make scheduling inspections easier. Generally, you’ll need to create an account, enter your permit number, select the type of inspection you need (e.g., framing, electrical rough-in), and pick an available date. While these systems are convenient, each municipality’s portal can have its own quirks. Being proactive and learning your local system early on is the best way to avoid confusion. Don’t wait until the day you need an inspection to try to figure it out. If you run into trouble, a quick call to the building department can usually clear things up. For those who’d rather not deal with the hassle, our team can manage the entire process for you. Feel free to request a proposal to see how we can help.
How to Ensure Your Inspections Pass the First Time
Passing a building inspection on the first try is the best way to keep your project on schedule and within budget. A failed inspection often means a stop-work order, frustrating delays, and extra costs for re-inspection fees and rework. The good news is that you can avoid most common failures with clear communication and solid preparation. It’s all about being proactive, organized, and ready for the inspector when they arrive. By treating inspection day as a key milestone and preparing for it properly, you set your project up for a smooth and successful outcome. When you’re juggling multiple trades and tight deadlines, having an expert handle the permitting process can make all the difference, ensuring your plans are accurate from the start and that you’re ready for every check-in.
Prepping Your Job Site for Inspection Day
Your main job on inspection day is to make the inspector’s job as easy as possible. Start by ensuring the completed work perfectly matches the approved plans. Any deviation, no matter how small, can trigger a failure. Before the inspector arrives, walk the site to make sure it’s clean, safe, and accessible. They need clear pathways to see the work that needs to be checked, so remove any debris, tools, or materials that are in the way. Have your permit card posted prominently and keep the approved plans and any engineering documents on-site and ready for review. A little organization shows professionalism and respect for the inspector’s time, making the entire process go more smoothly.
What to Do If You Fail an Inspection
Failing an inspection can feel like a major setback, but it’s a common part of the construction process. The first thing to do is listen carefully. Don’t argue with the inspector; instead, ask clarifying questions to make sure you fully understand the correction notice they provide. This document is your roadmap to passing the re-inspection. Create a clear, actionable list of every item that needs to be fixed and complete the work to the exact specifications required. Once you’re confident the issues are resolved, you can schedule the re-inspection. If you find yourself stuck in a loop of failed inspections, it might be time to request a proposal for expert help to get your project back on track.
Communicating with Your Building Inspector
A positive and professional relationship with your building inspector can make a world of difference. Be on-site to greet them, have your documents ready, and be prepared to walk them through the project. Remember, their job is to verify that your project meets minimum code compliance for safety—not to judge the quality of your craftsmanship. Each phase of a construction project may require its own inspection, so maintaining open communication is crucial. If you have a question or disagree with a finding, politely ask for the specific code reference so you can understand the requirement better. This approach shows you’re committed to doing things correctly and helps build a foundation of trust for a safe, compliant final build.
Resources to Help You Through the Inspection Process
Navigating the building inspection process can feel like a job in itself, but you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you prefer digital tools or direct communication, there are several resources available to help you keep your project moving smoothly. Knowing where to turn for information and assistance can make all the difference in preventing delays and ensuring every inspection is a success. By using the right tools and connecting with the right people, you can stay on top of your project’s requirements with confidence.
Using Your Local Online Permit Portal
Most counties and municipalities across Florida now have online permit portals, and they are your best friend for managing the inspection process. These websites act as a central hub where you can handle most of your permit-related tasks from your computer or phone. You can typically use the portal to check the status of your application, schedule required inspections, and even pay fees online. Getting familiar with your local portal is one of the first steps you should take. For example, the Miami-Dade County online portal allows you to manage every step digitally. It’s the easiest way to track progress and see exactly what’s needed next without having to call or visit the office.
Knowing Who to Contact at the Building Department
While online portals are great, sometimes you just need to talk to a real person. If you have specific questions about code interpretations or why a certain change was requested, it’s best to go straight to the source. Early in your project, identify the plans examiner assigned to your permit and the primary inspector for your area. Keep their contact information handy. When you call, have your permit number ready and be prepared with clear, concise questions. This direct line of communication can clear up confusion quickly and help you understand exactly what inspectors are looking for, saving you from a failed inspection and the hassle of rescheduling.
How a Permit Expediter Can Save You Time and Headaches
If managing paperwork, scheduling inspections, and communicating with the building department sounds overwhelming, consider working with a permit expediter. Our job is to handle all the administrative legwork for you. We have established relationships with officials in departments across the state and a deep understanding of the Florida Building Code. A permit expediter ensures your applications are correct, your inspections are scheduled on time, and any issues are resolved quickly. This allows you and your contractor to focus on the actual construction work. Our permit expediting services are designed to prevent costly delays and keep your project on schedule from start to finish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my inspection card gets lost or damaged by rain? Don’t panic, but you do need to act quickly. An inspector cannot and will not proceed without a legible card on site. Your first step should be to contact your local building department immediately to explain the situation. They will guide you on their specific process for issuing a replacement card. This is why it’s a great habit to take a clear photo of your card after each inspector signs it, giving you a personal backup record of your project’s progress.
Do I really need to go through all this for a small kitchen or bathroom remodel? It’s a common question, and the answer is almost always yes. A good rule of thumb is that if your project involves altering any structural, electrical, or plumbing systems, you will need a permit and the corresponding inspections. This isn’t just about major changes; moving a sink, adding new outlets, or taking down part of a non-load-bearing wall typically requires a permit. These inspections are in place to ensure the work is done safely and won’t cause problems down the road.
What’s the difference between the building permit and the inspection card? Aren’t they the same thing? It’s easy to see why that’s confusing, but they serve two different functions. Think of the building permit as the official permission slip from your city or county that says your plans meet the minimum code requirements and you are legally allowed to start the work. The inspection card is the on-site report card that tracks the actual construction progress. It’s the physical document that inspectors sign at each phase to prove the work being done matches the approved plans and is up to code.
My contractor is handling all the inspections. What’s my role as the property owner? Even when your contractor is managing the schedule, it’s smart to stay informed. Your role is to ensure you hired a licensed and insured contractor who understands their responsibility to follow the inspection process. You can ask for updates after each inspection and even request to see the signed-off card. Ultimately, the property is yours, and any long-term issues from missed or failed inspections, like problems selling the home later, will fall on you. Staying aware keeps everyone accountable.
What’s the most common reason an inspection fails? From my experience, the most frequent cause of a failed inspection isn’t a major structural flaw, but a simple discrepancy between the work completed and the plans that were originally approved. An inspector’s job is to verify that what was built matches exactly what was permitted. Any on-the-fly changes, no matter how small, can result in a failure. The second most common reason is a lack of access; if the inspector can’t easily and safely see the work, they can’t approve it.