Understanding Philadelphia's Special Inspections for Homeowners - PART 1 by Ray Brogden

If you're planning a renovation, addition, or new construction project in Philadelphia, you may come across the term “Special Inspections.” These inspections are an important part of the city's building permit and construction approval process. They ensure that specific parts of your project — such as structural elements, fireproofing, or seismic and wind resistance — are built safely and in compliance with code.

While it may sound complicated, knowing the process can help you keep your project running smoothly.

Here's a step-by-step overview of how Special Inspections typically work in Philadelphia.

Step 1: The Design Professional Prepares the Special Inspection Program

Your architect or structural engineer (also called the Design Professional) acts as the 'DPRC-SI.' This means the Design Professional in Responsible Charge of the Special Inspections. The DPRC-SI creates a detailed Special Inspection Program. This document outlines which parts of the project need extra inspection and testing.

Step 2: The Owner Hires the Special Inspector

As the homeowner, you (or your architect acting as your agent) are responsible for hiring qualified Special Inspectors to perform these inspections. These are independent professionals who specialize in verifying that construction meets all code requirements.

Step 3: Submitting the Statement of Special Inspections

The Design Professional submits a Statement of Special Inspections to the City's Building Code Examiner via an online platform called 'eclipse' as part of the Building Permit submission process. This document includes a schedule (list) of all the inspection services required — and, when applicable, details about additional inspections for wind or seismic resistance.

Also note that a Special Inspections Duties and Responsibilities form is required as part of the Building Permit submission. This form requires signatures by the Owner, DPRC-SI (Design Professional) and Contractor.

All forms can be found here: https://www.phila.gov/departments/department-of-licenses-and-inspections/resources/special-inspections-information/#/

Step 4: Listing the Inspection Agencies

The homeowner or their design professional provides the City with a list of all individuals or firms that will be conducting the inspections. The City must review and approve these before work begins. This is usually included on the Statement of Special Inspections form with the inspector listed next to each of the required special inspections for the project.

Step 5: City Approval

The Building Code Examiner (at the City's License + Inspection) reviews and approves the qualifications of all special inspectors and agencies as part of the Building Permit approval process, ensuring they have the appropriate licenses and meet Philadelphia's building code standards.

Step 6: Scheduling Inspections

As construction progresses, your contractor will notify the special inspectors when each phase of work is ready to be checked. They will issue reports that you will retain for your records. The DPRC-SI will need those reports, as well, to review.

Conclusion:

These first steps set the stage for a smooth construction process — and help prevent surprises later. It is essential that the Homeowner, Contractor and Design Professional each know their roles and responsibilities in this process to help it go smoothly.

In the next post, we'll cover what happens during and after inspections, so you'll know exactly what to expect from start to finish.