What are some issues that are critical that sometimes are overlooked?

As inspectors we seem to see the same issues that do not comply with code during inspections. This section will touch on some items but certainly this is not complete.

• We usually arrive on site and find no sani-can on site. This is required by the state and is very convenient for the contractors.
• With the footing we check that the keyway is at least 2" deep by 2" wide.
• The foundation walls will be checked to verify that all foundation wall panel ties are sealed after the ties are broken off flush with the concrete.
• The footing drain must be installed with the pipe perforations in the down direction and a membrane surrounds the pipe. Also at least 6" of stone bed is installed below the drain pipe.
• The sill plate must be installed with 12" long anchor bolts imbedded into the concrete so the bolt is above the sill plate with at least 4 threads showing. Each sill plate must have an anchor bolt within 12" of each end of each piece of sill plate.
• A sill seal must be installed below the sill plates.
• There are too many items to list that are checked during the rough framing. One of the items that sometimes is overlooked is with roof trusses. Proper bracing must be installed. There are two places to find proper bracing methods and placement. The first is with the truss computer generated sheet. It can show the additional required chord bracing. Another item that is overlooked is the sizing of the uplift connection. For standard cross bracing practices refer to the BCSI 1-12 manual.
• All large beams must have calculations supporting the required loading prior to installation
• Be cautious about drilling holes in beams, joists and rafters. Never allow holes to be drilled in any truss. Never!
• Exterior flashing seems to elude most builders.
• Fiberglass insulation must be installed fluffy with no rolls. It must have a good friction fit. If your hand can fit between the insulation and stud then it is too loose. No space is allowed at the top either. Make sure it is behind all electric outlet boxes.
• The vapor barrier must be installed and sealed at all openings.
• For fire penetrations please go through and check to see if all penetrations are done. All penetrations in the wall top plates and wall bottom plates must be sealed to stop the passage of flames. Either fire stop or draft stop caulk or foam can be used. Also any line of horizontal penetrations that are more than 10 feet must be sealed. This usually is with electrical.
• No large piles of loam may be present at the time of the final inspections. Have your site contractor knock them down if you will be doing your landscaping at a later date.
• Don't forget your street number on the house and at the road.