What happens at a final inspection after a permitted bathroom renovation — what are they checking?

At a final inspection, the city building inspector verifies that all permitted work — plumbing, electrical, and general construction — has been completed according to the Ontario Building Code and the approved permit drawings. Understanding what inspectors look for helps you ensure your GTA bathroom renovation passes on the first visit, avoiding delays and re-inspection fees.

It is important to understand that a bathroom renovation with plumbing and electrical permits typically involves multiple inspections at different stages, not just one final visit. The final inspection is the last step, but earlier inspections must have been completed and passed before you reach this point.

Inspection Stages for a Typical Toronto Bathroom Renovation

Rough-in plumbing inspection happens after your plumber has installed all drain, waste, and vent piping and supply lines, but before walls are closed up. The inspector verifies correct pipe sizes, proper drain slopes (typically 1/4 inch per foot for horizontal drains), adequate venting, secure connections, and that the installation matches the approved permit drawings. They may conduct a water test or air pressure test on the DWV system to check for leaks.

ESA electrical inspection occurs after your electrician has run all new wiring — circuits for GFCI outlets, exhaust fan, heated floor, and lighting — but before drywall covers the wiring. The ESA inspector checks wire sizing, proper circuit protection, GFCI placement, grounding, junction box installation, and code-compliant fixture locations relative to water sources. All bathroom outlets must have GFCI protection — this is one of the most commonly checked items.

Waterproofing inspection may be required before tile installation. The inspector verifies that an approved waterproof membrane — Schluter Kerdi, liquid-applied membrane such as RedGard or Mapei AquaDefense, or equivalent — has been properly installed in the shower and tub surround areas. The membrane must be continuous, with all seams sealed and corners properly treated.

The Final Inspection

At the final inspection, the building inspector conducts an overall review of the completed bathroom. They are checking that all previously inspected rough-in work has been properly enclosed, that finish work meets code, and that the bathroom is safe for occupancy. Specific items they verify include:

Plumbing fixtures and function — the inspector will run water to each fixture (toilet, sink, shower/tub) to verify proper drainage, check for leaks at connections, confirm that the toilet is securely mounted, and verify that hot and cold supply lines are correctly connected. They check that anti-scald protection is in place — thermostatic or pressure-balance shower valves are mandatory under the Ontario Building Code, with a maximum delivery temperature of 49 degrees Celsius.

Electrical completion — GFCI outlets tested for proper trip/reset function, exhaust fan operation verified, all light fixtures properly installed and functioning, heated floor system operational with proper thermostat and GFCI protection.

Ventilation — the exhaust fan must be properly ducted to the exterior of the home (not into the attic, soffit, or wall cavity), and the ductwork must be insulated where it passes through unheated spaces to prevent condensation. Minimum 50 CFM capacity for standard bathrooms.

General construction — minimum fixture clearances (15 inches from toilet centre to wall, 21 inches clear space in front of toilet and vanity), proper door swing or pocket door function, and accessibility features if specified in the permit.

Tips for Passing Inspection in Toronto

Make sure your contractor schedules inspections at the correct stages — do not close up walls before rough-in inspections are complete. Keep the permit posted visibly on site. Ensure access to all inspection points — the inspector needs to see shut-off valves, electrical panels, and fixture connections. A professional GTA bathroom contractor manages the inspection schedule as part of their project workflow, coordinating with the city and ESA to minimize delays.