The important principle to remember is that all work must be inspected prior to concealment. It is possible that all of the construction trades are coordinated enough so that all the rough-in inspections can be accomplished during one inspection. However, it is unlikely that the insulation inspection can be done at the same time because the insulation normally conceals the other work. Also, the rough framing inspection is best done after the electrical and heating work is done so that notching and boring can be checked.

Occasionally, a contractor will not properly call for an inspection so that the inspector does not have the opportunity to verify compliance prior to concealment of some work. Possible options that the municipality may consider are:

• removal of all covering work so a full inspection can be made,

• removal of representative section(s) of covering work as chosen by the inspector, alternative testing of materials,

• affidavits by witnesses verifying the original work, or

• noting of the permanent file, and possibly on the property deed, that compliance of certain items was not verified.