Common Rejection Reasons

This section is to help you understand and prevent your inspection from being rejected. Please review all of the common reasons why inspections are rejected.

1. Not being 100% ready for an inspection.
   Make sure you review the job before you call in for an inspection. The most common reason for being rejected is the job is not ready for an inspection. For example, the footings are not completely finished with rebar in place, the vapor barrier is not installed for a concrete slab inspection, or subcontractors are not completely finished with their work.
2. Not knowing what code the city is enforcing.
   It is the responsibility of the contractors and sub contractors to know the codes the city is enforcing.
3. Not constructing the project to the reviewed plans and comments. Unapproved changes to plans will result in a rejection. Any changes to the approved plans must be resubmitted and reviewed before an inspection is performed.
4. Exceeding what was originally permitted.
   Additional work that was not described or indicated on the permit application or plans will result in a rejection.
5. Not providing good detail about your project on the permit and on the plans.
   Make sure the information you provide is in detail. Sometimes missed or lack of information is given on the permit application and plans. The more detailed information you give will help us in determining compliance.
6. Covering up items that are required to be inspected.
   Items that are required to be inspected must be clearly visible. Items not visible will be rejected. For example, insulation installed before framing/electrical inspection; gravel over plumbing slab; water service covered.
7. Not having engineering documentation on job site.
   Engineering designs are required to be kept on the job site such as engineered footings, slabs, foundation and retaining walls, I-Joist plan, and LVL beam design.
8. Not showing up for scheduled inspection.
   Inspections are scheduled by times on each inspector’s schedule. This time is given to the contractor when the inspection is requested.
9. Using unlisted construction products.
   Construction materials are tested by approved agencies. Framing, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical materials must have the required listing and labeling. Unlisted products are not allowed to be installed.
10. Wrong information given when scheduling an inspection.
    When scheduling, make sure you have all the right information. To view information you will need before scheduling an inspection, please follow this link: Building Inspections.
11. Not complying with minimum code standards.
    The City of Vestavia Hills adopted codes are the minimum standard in which construction is inspected. You are encouraged to build beyond this standard to increase safety.