When should footing inspections be performed?

Footing inspections should be performed when forms and steel reinforcing are complete but before concrete placement. This is the ideal stage for inspection because it allows the building inspector to verify that all necessary components—such as the correct formwork dimensions, reinforcement details, and adherence to building codes—are in place prior to the concrete being poured.

Inspecting at this stage helps ensure that the foundation is being constructed according to the approved plans and that it will adequately support the structure being built. Once the concrete is poured, it is no longer possible to assess the placement of the reinforcement or any potential issues with the forms, which makes this inspection stage critical in upholding the integrity and safety of the building's foundation.