The Pre-Inspection Checklist Every Commercial Tenant in Ontario Should Use

The inspection is scheduled. The build is (mostly) done. And somewhere in the back of every business owner's mind is the question: are we going to pass? At KD Imperial Builders, we have a simple answer: if you have to wonder, you haven't prepared properly. A passed inspection is the result of a systematic pre-inspection review that identifies and resolves every potential deficiency before the inspector arrives.

Framing Inspection Checklist

The framing inspection occurs after structural framing is complete but before insulation or drywall is installed.

• All structural framing matches approved permit drawings — location, height, and configuration
• Engineered framing elements have engineer-stamped shop drawings on site
• Fire separation requirements between occupancies reflected in framing
• Structural blocking for heavy fixtures (chandeliers, wall-mounted equipment) in place and specified on drawings
• All rough openings match approved locations and dimensions
• Draft stopping installed in concealed spaces where required by OBC

Mechanical / Plumbing / Electrical Rough-In Inspection

• All electrical rough-in matches approved electrical drawings — panel location, circuit configuration, outlet and fixture locations
• All conduit and wiring properly supported and labelled
• All plumbing rough-in (drains, supply lines, vents) matches approved drawings
• Kitchen grease interceptor installation complete and inspectable where required
• HVAC ductwork rough-in matches approved mechanical drawings
• Exhaust fan and kitchen hood ductwork in place, sized correctly, and accessible
• All work performed by licensed trades (ESA-licensed electrician, licensed plumber)
• ESA inspection booked and completed for electrical work

Final Inspection Checklist

Structural and Architectural

• All construction matches the approved drawings
• Any field changes documented and, where required, submitted as permit amendments
• All doors and hardware installed and operational (exit hardware, self-closing devices, accessible hardware)
• All stairs, ramps, and guards meet OBC dimensional requirements
• Accessibility features in place (accessible washroom, accessible route, signage)

Fire and Life Safety

• All exit signs illuminated (normal power and emergency battery)
• Exit route clear, unobstructed, and marked
• Fire alarm panel in normal status — no troubles
• Smoke detectors installed in correct locations per OBC
• Fire extinguishers mounted, charged, and tagged
• Fire Safety Plan posted at the fire alarm panel
• Posted occupancy load sign in place
• Kitchen suppression system installed, charged, and tagged with current service date

Documentation Ready for Inspector

• Original approved permit drawings available on site
• All engineering reports, shop drawings, and field review letters
• ESA Certificate of Inspection for electrical work
• TSSA certification for gas equipment where applicable
• Kitchen suppression system service record
• Any approved permit amendments or revision drawings

The Day Before

On the business day before any scheduled inspection, walk the space with this checklist in hand. Do not delegate this walk to a subcontractor. Walk it yourself — or have your general contractor walk it with you — looking specifically for anything that doesn't match the approved drawings. If you find something, call the inspector's office and explain the situation. Inspectors respect proactive communication far more than they respond well to surprises on inspection day. An inspection passed on the first attempt is not luck. It is preparation.