Final Inspection

Footing, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical: each of those inspections has to pass before the next stage of a build proceeds, and the final inspection is the last one in that chain. An inspector visits the finished house and checks that everything is complete, safe, and built to the approved plans. When it passes, the AHJ issues the certificate of occupancy, the document that lets you legally live in the home.

The 2018 International Residential Code requires a final inspection after the project is finished and before the building is used. The inspector confirms the work matches the permitted plans and the code. They check that smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms work, stairs and railings are safe, electrical panels and outlets are correct, plumbing fixtures function, and required safety items like emergency egress windows and address numbers are in place.

For example, a custom home in Fountain Hills schedules its final inspection once the house is move-in ready. If the inspector finds an open item, like a missing handrail or an unfinished GFCI outlet, the inspection fails and the builder corrects it before a re-inspection. Each jurisdiction sets its own scheduling window, often a day or two out.

A final inspection is not the same as the builder's punch list, which is the owner-and-builder list of cosmetic touch-ups. The final inspection is about code and safety, not paint scuffs or cabinet adjustments. It is also separate from any HOA or warranty walk-through. We line up the final inspection only when the home is genuinely complete, because a failed final inspection delays your certificate of occupancy and your move-in date.