Phase Inspections for new construction is the fastest growing part of our business. While every builder wants to build a quality home, he depends on a number of different sub-contractors. New homebuyers need an experienced person who is representing only their interests to oversee the building process. There are three different phases of inspection that we provide and they are described below.
What is a Phase I Pre-Pour Inspection?
On the pre-pour inspection we are checking to make sure that all the preparation work is completed before pouring concrete. We focus on the items of structural integrity. We check for debris or roots in excavation, integrity of vapor barrier, straightness, sleeving, and appropriate spacing of post-tensioning cables, grade beam wall dimensions, proper sleeving and installation of rough plumbing penetrations, apparent form brace strength, proper sill anchor installation and spacing, and reinforcing bar patterns.
What is a Phase II Frame Inspection/ Mechanical rough in?
Our frame inspections include the structural / electrical / mechanical & plumbing systems of the house.
On the structural inspection, we will check the entire roofing system and all roof penetrations. We are inspecting the entire framing system of the home, load bearing walls and all other structural members.
The electrical system is checked for proper electrical wiring and connections that will be behind walls. We also check for the correct gauge wiring. Improper connections and/or the wrong gauge wire can result in a home fire later so it is a safety issue for your family.
The mechanical inspection includes checking for proper installation of any of the mechanical systems in the home that have been installed at this point in the construction process (furnaces, water heaters, etc.). We verify the integrity of the duct work that would be leading to these appliances and heating and cooling units. We want to make sure that any connection between two sections of ducting is made properly, so that conditioned air goes into the home and not into your walls.
On the plumbing inspection, we check for proper installation of the visible pipes that will connect to the water heaters, sinks, faucets, bath tubs, and other fixtures. We also check to make sure that nail guards are properly installed so that these pipes cannot be punctured with future nailing.
What is a Phase III final inspection?
The final inspection is where it all comes together. We go through the entire home both structurally and mechanically. We can now operate and test all mechanical systems and appliances to verify proper operation and installation. We are looking at flooring and cabinetry and other finishes of the home. This is a very detailed inspection and summary of the condition of the entire home.