1. Obtain final land development approval
This is the process of obtaining approval from local authorities that the property meets all of the necessary zoning and planning requirements for a commercial building. It involves submitting plans to the local zoning board, gaining approval for any special permits, and ensuring all other regulations are met.
2. Obtain final assurance approval (improvements)
This is the process of obtaining approval from local authorities that all necessary improvements have been made to the property. This includes changes in topography, grading, landscaping and drainage, installation of utilities, and any other improvements that may be required for a commercial building.
3. Pay traffic impact fee
The traffic impact fee is an amount paid to the municipality to cover any potential increases in traffic in the area due to the new construction project. The fee must be paid before a final inspection can be completed.
4. Obtain Clean Water Services (CWS) final erosion control approval
Before a final inspection can be completed, it is important to ensure that all proper erosion control measures have been taken. The CWS will inspect the property and sign off on any necessary improvements that need to be made for erosion control.
5. Obtain final grading approval
Grading is essential in construction of a commercial building, as it ensures that water drains correctly away from the building and does not pool up around the foundation, which can cause structural damage. A local authority must approve the grading before a final inspection can be completed.
6. Post insulation certificate
An insulation certificate must be posted at all times on the property to ensure proper energy efficiency standards are maintained in the building. This certificate must be obtained before a final inspection can be completed.
7. Obtain final electrical approval
In order to obtain a final inspection, all electrical wiring must be inspected and approved by a local authority. This ensures that the wiring is up to code and in safe working order.
8. Obtain final plumbing approval
All plumbing systems must be inspected and approved by a local authority before a final inspection can be completed. This includes any pipes, fixtures, valves, or other components used for water delivery in the building.
9. Obtain final mechanical approval
All mechanical systems such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) must be inspected and approved by a local authority before a final inspection can take place. This ensures that these systems are up to code and in safe working order.
10. Post permanent building identification and signs
Permanent building identification and signs must be posted on the property in order to comply with local regulations. This includes signage such as fire exits, building numbers, and any other important information related to the property.
11. Test operation of smoke alarms, strobes, and sprinklers
Before a final inspection can be completed, it is necessary to test the operation of all safety equipment such as smoke alarms, strobes, and sprinklers. This ensures that these systems are working properly in case of an emergency situation.
12. Verify rings on are on sprinkler heads and that heads are not painted
Sprinkler heads must have rings installed around them in order for them to operate correctly when needed. Additionally, sprinkler heads must not be painted in order to prevent any clogging of the system. Both of these requirements must be verified before a final inspection can take place.
13. Test operation of exhaust fans, hood, etc.
Any exhaust fans, hoods, and other ventilation systems must be tested before a final inspection can take place. This ensures that these systems are operating correctly and safely.
14. Install all accessibility signage, parking spaces, and ramps
Signage, parking spaces, and ramps that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) must be installed on the premises in order to pass a final inspection. This is an important measure to ensure that all individuals have equal access to the building.
15. Verify any ADA strike pads installed are accessible
Any ADA strike pads, which are special mats that alert people with disabilities when an elevator is arriving, must be installed and accessible before a final inspection can take place. This helps to ensure the safety of all individuals who use the building.