Preparing for a Rough-In Inspection

What the rough-in checks

The rough-in inspection happens after all the wiring is run but before the walls are closed. The inspector needs to see everything: cable runs, boxes, connections, grounding, and support, while it is all still visible. Once drywall goes up, that evidence is gone.

Do not call for it until the wiring is genuinely complete. A premature inspection wastes the inspector's trip and yours.

Box and cable checklist

Walk the job with the inspector's eyes before you call. The usual items:

• Boxes set flush to the finished surface and not overfilled.
• Cables stapled within the required distance of each box and along runs.
• At least six inches of free conductor at every box.
• Protection plates on studs where cable is close to the edge.
• Grounds made up, and pigtails where required.

Paperwork and access

Have your permit posted and visible, the approved plans on site, and the panel accessible. Label your circuits or at least know your layout cold so you can answer questions without hunting. Make sure the inspector can physically reach every area; blocked access is an automatic reschedule.

An inspector who sees an organized job and a prepared electrician tends to give you the benefit of the doubt on judgment calls.

Do not cover anything early

The cardinal sin is insulating or closing walls before the rough passes. If you cover work, the inspector can make you open it back up, and now you are paying twice. Coordinate with the other trades and the general so the sequence is inspect, then insulate, then rock.

Get the rough right and clean, and you build a reputation that makes every future inspection go smoother.