Testing and inspection are critical components of the construction process, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance with applicable codes and standards.
This category includes all inspection fees, material testing requirements, commissioning, and specialized inspection services needed throughout the construction process.
Testing and inspections must be scheduled at specific points in the construction process. Plan ahead to avoid project delays.
Testing and inspections verify compliance with building codes, specifications, and quality standards. Ensure all requirements are clearly understood.
Many tests and inspections require certified professionals. Verify qualifications and certifications of testing agencies and inspectors.
Maintain thorough records of all tests, inspections, and their results. These documents may be required for final approvals and warranties.
| # | Testing/Inspection Item | Description | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | City Inspection Fees | Fees for municipal inspections across all disciplines | Throughout project |
| 2 | Lab Testing | Laboratory analysis of construction materials | As needed |
| 3 | Soils compaction testing | Verification of proper soil compaction for foundations and site work | During site preparation |
| 4 | Certification of Building Pads | Verification that building pads meet specifications | Before foundation work |
| 5 | Materials Testing Program | Comprehensive testing of construction materials | Throughout project |
| 6 | Concrete strength tests | Testing concrete cylinders for compressive strength | During concrete work |
| 7 | Masonry grout and mortar strength tests | Testing masonry materials for strength and quality | During masonry work |
| 8 | Fireproofing inspection | Verification of proper fireproofing application | During fireproofing installation |
| 9 | Roofing inspection | Inspection of roofing installation and materials | During roof installation |
| 10 | Curtainwall testing | Testing of curtainwall systems for air and water infiltration | After curtainwall installation |
| 11 | Special testing | Specialized tests for water, wind, and seismic performance | As specified |
| 12 | Welding and bolt torque inspection | Verification of structural connections | During structural steel work |
| 13 | Shop fabrication inspections | Inspection of off-site fabricated components | During fabrication |
| 14 | Commissioning inspections | Testing and verification of building systems | Near project completion |
| 15 | Overtime inspection fees | Additional costs for inspections outside normal hours | As needed |
| 16 | "Re-inspection" fees | Costs for repeated inspections due to failures or changes | As needed |
| 17 | City Planning Inspection | Verification of compliance with planning requirements | At key milestones |
| 18 | Factory Mutual Inspections | Inspections for insurance compliance | As required |
| 19 | Safety and OSHA Inspections | Workplace safety and OSHA compliance checks | Throughout project |
| 20 | Off-site Special Inspections | Specialized inspections conducted away from the project site | As needed |
| 21 | Health Department Inspections | Inspections for health code compliance | Before occupancy |
| 22 | Early Occupancy Inspection | Inspection to allow partial occupancy before full completion | As requested |
Create a comprehensive testing and inspection schedule aligned with your construction timeline. Include all required inspections and identify dependencies.
Pre-qualify testing agencies and inspectors to ensure they have the proper certifications, experience, and capacity to support your project.
Conduct internal pre-inspections before official inspections to identify and address issues beforehand, reducing the risk of failed inspections.
Implement a robust system for tracking all inspection requests, results, and follow-up actions. Digital documentation platforms can streamline this process.
Ensure all team members understand inspection requirements and their roles in the process. Regular training can improve compliance and reduce issues.
Develop a comprehensive quality control program that integrates with your testing and inspection schedule to proactively manage quality throughout the project.