Commercial Special Inspections

What is a Special Inspection?

A special inspection is an inspection required by code for material testing, installation, fabrication, erection or replacement of components and connections requiring special expertise to ensure compliance with approved construction documents and codes. A special inspection is required for items listed in the International Building Code or the Montgomery County Special Inspection Manual.

Who Decides When Special Inspections are Required?

The Structural Engineer in charge of design of the structural elements of the building is to identify those components that are required by the code to be subject to special inspections. A DPS plan review engineer reviews drawings, the Statement of Special Inspection and the Tower Crane Inspection Requirements submitted with a building permit application to verify if the building elements as identified by the Structural Engineer of Record are subject to Special Inspection.

What to do Prior to Permit Issuance.

When a structure has been identified to be subject to special inspections, the owner or his/her representative must do the following prior to permit issuance:

• Review and comply with Special Inspection Program Manual
• Complete and return the Montgomery County Statement of Special Inspection
• Set-up a pre-construction meeting with DPS to review requierements of Special Inspection Program 

What are the Costs?

All fees and costs related to the performance of special services provided by third-party inspections are paid by the building owner.