What is the difference between a permit and an inspection?
Permit: permission to build
A permit is a legal document that grants you the right to perform specific work on your property. It confirms that your plans meet zoning, building, and safety codes. You apply, submit plans, pay a fee, and receive the permit before starting work. The permit must be posted on-site and is valid for a certain period, often 6 to 12 months, with possible extensions.
The permit also establishes a record of the work, which can be important when you sell your home. It shows that the work was reviewed and approved by the local authority.
Inspection: verifying the work
An inspection is a visit by a code official to check that the work matches the approved plans and meets code. Inspections happen at specific stages—for example, foundation, framing, electrical rough-in, and final. You typically request inspections as you complete each phase. The inspector either approves the work, asks for corrections, or fails it, requiring a re-inspection (often with an extra fee).
You cannot get a final inspection or a certificate of occupancy without passing all required inspections. Skipping inspections can invalidate your permit and lead to problems later.
- Permit: before work starts
- Inspection: during and after work
- Permit: one application, one fee
- Inspection: multiple visits, sometimes additional fees for re-inspections
- Permit: posted on site
- Inspection: results recorded, final approval needed
Common mistakes
- Thinking that a permit alone means the work is approved—inspections are separate and required.
- Skipping inspections because you think they're optional; without them, your permit may be void and you could be forced to open up walls.
- Assuming the inspector will catch every problem—they only check what's visible and required at that stage.
