West Virginia Contractors License Practice Exam

When should a final inspection be conducted?

1. After the permit is issued

2. After permitted work is complete

3. After the occupants move in

4. Upon beginning the permitted work

The correct answer is: After permitted work is complete

The final inspection is conducted after the permitted work is complete, as it is the step that ensures all construction or renovations have been performed in accordance with the local building codes, regulations, and the specifications laid out in the permit. This stage is critical for verifying that the work meets safety standards and complies with the approved plans before the project is considered finished. Conducting the final inspection at this point allows for any necessary corrections or issues to be addressed promptly, ensuring that the space is safe and habitable before anyone occupies it. If inspections were conducted at earlier stages, like after the permit issuance or starting the work, there would likely still be significant work left to evaluate. Waiting until after occupants move in would also not provide the opportunity to rectify any potential oversights or code violations before they are potentially exposed to hazards. Therefore, performing the final inspection only after the work is truly complete is essential for maintaining safety standards and legal compliance in construction projects.