SDCI Guide to Video Inspections

Some inspections can now be done as a video inspection. Please read Video Inspections to see if your project might have the option to be conducted by video.

To be considered for a video inspection, please confirm the following:

• The site contact is at least 18 years old or is with an adult to perform the video inspection.
• Either Microsoft Teams, FaceTime, or WebEx* is properly installed, and the site contact is familiar with their smartphone, trained in how to use the app and all necessary tools, and knows how to reverse the camera for the inspection. If you wish to use a different app the inspector must approve this before the inspection can be scheduled.
• All approved project plans, schematics, diagrams, installation instructions, and/or other necessary documentation are on site and legible.
• Have ear buds, headset or other methods so you can hear clearly via your device.
• Be certain your mic is working properly.
• Connect to WiFi for best results or have clear a cell phone signal to maintain a quality video and audio connection.
• Have adequate lighting; test the lighting prior to inspection.

If you don’t confirm these prior to scheduling an video inspection, you may end up with an incomplete or failed inspection.

* Because Zoom does not meet the City’s security standards, we will not use Zoom to conduct a video inspection.

Video Inspection Steps

IMPORTANT NOTE: When entering contact information for scheduling, be sure to use the phone number of the site contact performing the inspection. If we do not have the site contact’s phone number, we will be unable to conduct your inspection.

1. Schedule Inspection
   • Schedule the inspection as you would normally, either through Accela or by phone.
   • Be certain to leave the site contact’s name, email, and phone number in the inspection request.
   • The inspector will call the site contact to confirm the inspection can be performed as a video inspection. The inspector will then schedule the inspection.

2. Prepare for the Inspection

Prior to the inspection please confirm and prepare the following:

• • Be ready to accept a video call at the scheduled time – if you do not answer the inspector will try again for five minutes. If you are not available, you may fail your inspection.
  • Turn off phone or tablet notifications during the video call. Notifications may freeze the video call or cause delays and could result in a failed inspection.
  • Use ear buds with a microphone to improve communication.
  • Make sure power tools and equipment are not running so that the call audio is clear.
  • Be sure your phone battery is fully charged.
  • Be sure the area to be inspected is clear of debris, material, etc.
  • Be sure you have any tools the inspector requires – be sure they are in working order and the site contact is trained in their use – such as, but not limited to:
    • Tape measure
    • Level
    • Screw gun
    • Hammer
    • Step or extension ladder
    • Others relevant to the inspection being performed

3. Performing the inspection
   • The inspector will direct the site contact to start on the street where we can view city street signs to confirm the location of the work. Please have house numbers up and clearly visible.
   • Follow the directions of the inspector – please refrain from outside conversation during the inspection.
   • The inspection will take place starting from the lowest level moving up as necessary and walking each level from left to right.
   • You are responsible for taking your own notes – please make note of any corrections the inspector gives as they are given. The inspector will wait while you take notes if you do not have someone to help you.
   • Upon completion of the inspection, the inspector will verbally tell you the result. The inspector will enter the results into Accela and they will be available online soon after.

Keep in mind:

• If you choose to take an outside call before the inspection is complete, then the inspection may be listed as a partial pass or failed as applicable. You will have to schedule a re-inspection.
• If the connection is lost during the inspection, the inspector will attempt to re-establish connection for up to five minutes after the initial loss of connection. If connection cannot be re-established the inspector will fail the inspection.
• If lighting is inadequate, or the necessary tools are not available for the inspection, the inspector will fail the inspection and you will be asked to reschedule.
• Be aware that video inspections do not apply to all types of inspections and are determined at the inspector’s discretion via a pre-established protocol approved by the SDCI Inspections Services Director.
• Be aware if the inspector cannot to their satisfaction conclude the project is in compliance with the code, the inspector may partially pass or fail. The inspector can require you to rescheduled the inspection or require the inspection be performed in person.