What should be included in a building inspection checklist?

Including installation compliance with local codes in a building inspection checklist is essential to ensure that the construction work adheres to established regulations and standards. Local codes are developed to guarantee safety, health, and welfare for the occupants of the building. They encompass various aspects of construction such as structural integrity, fire safety, electrical systems, plumbing, and zoning requirements. An inspector's primary role is to evaluate whether the work done complies with these codes, which not only helps avoid potential hazards but also protects the contractor and owner from future legal and financial liabilities. Ensuring compliance can often be the most critical factor in a successful inspection outcome, as non-compliance can lead to delays, fines, or the requirement to redo work that does not meet code specifications.

Other aspects of building projects, like financial records, warranty documents, or an owner's previous construction history, while important in their own contexts, do not directly address the physical state and safety of the construction work at hand.