Under construction work surveillance or inspections are a critical part of the building process in most countries, particularly in our professional practice in Montreal, Quebec.

Thanks to our experience in various countries and types of projects, we understand the importance of ensuring these inspections proceed smoothly. By following key steps and best practices, you can keep your project on track and avoid costly delays or rework.

The first thing to do is make sure you have all the necessary documentation prepared and organized before the inspection. This includes your building plans, permits, safety documentation, and any other paperwork required by local regulations. Having everything in order demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to doing things by the book.

Understand Regulations and Prepare the Site

IIt is also essential to fully understand all relevant building codes and applicable regulations. New rules may apply depending on the type of project and the timing. This includes understanding the role of the Garantie de construction résidentielle (GCR), which provides warranties for new residential construction. GCR inspectors may be involved in inspections during construction to ensure building quality.

Before the inspection, take the time to properly inform the contractor to prepare the job site. Ensuring that the site is clean, organized, and that all safety protocols are being followed is crucial for a successful inspection. Have your team conduct a walkthrough before the visit, so that when you are onsite, you can easily identify and address any potential issues. Many professionals use construction management apps or other tools to document site conditions with photos and notes. Whatever method you choose, what’s important is to have a record of the state of work at the time of inspection, including clear images and other relevant information.

Conduct Regular Quality Control Inspections

In addition to having a clear understanding of your project and its challenges, it is important to conduct your own regular verifications to ensure compliance with your drawings and specifications. Review the work daily to ensure it meets the project requirements and the standards that you and your team identified and proposed during the document production phase. Use template checklists to drive quality and consistency. Identify any deficiencies early on so they can be corrected before the official inspection. Implement a structured follow-up system to ensure that issues identified and discussed are corrected within the allotted time.

Pay special attention to health and safety during your internal inspections as well. Construction sites contain numerous potential hazards that must be properly controlled. Look for issues such as trip hazards, adequate fall protection, proper use of personal protective equipment, and safe handling of tools and materials. Even though the contractor is ultimately responsible, health and safety remain, from a moral perspective at the very least, everyone’s responsibility.

Work with Experienced Inspectors

When it comes to formal under-construction work surveillance, it is beneficial to work with professionals or experienced employees guided by the architect and/or engineers, depending on the work being inspected. They will possess the knowledge and experience necessary to thoroughly examine the built result and compare it with the drawings issued for construction.

Depending on the work being inspected, other specialists or professionals may be required. However, they should always work in coordination with the architect, who has the overall responsibility and a comprehensive understanding of the project.

Provide Detailed Reports

After each visit and site meeting, provide a detailed report that includes photos and videos documenting the results. Use a standardized format to ensure that all relevant information is captured. The report should identify both positive progress and any deficiencies that need to be corrected, specify the responsible person, and outline a timeline for completion.

Review inspection reports carefully with your team and develop action plans to address issues promptly. By tracking progress and identifying trends from inspections, you can make systemic improvements to your construction practices.

See Inspections as a Positive

Although under-construction inspections may sometimes feel like a hassle, it is important to approach them with a positive and proactive attitude. Inspections are necessary to ensure that buildings are safe, of high quality, and compliant goals that align directly with your objectives. Embrace inspections as an important step toward ensuring quality.

Building strong, collaborative relationships with various professionals can serve you well. These professionals, along with the contractor and subtrades, are valued partners in the successful execution of your projects. Depending on the project size, you may need to work closely with them for an extended period. Together, you will achieve excellent outcomes.

In conclusion, ensuring a smooth under-construction work surveillance or inspection process involves proactive organization, quality control, understanding of regulations, site preparation, detailed reporting, and a positive mindset. By effectively implementing these strategies, you will avoid disruptions and keep your architectural projects on time and on budget. Embrace the inspection process as an opportunity to build safely and optimize your results intelligently.

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