What Inspections Are Required for a New House in Wisconsin?

Building a new house in Wisconsin requires a series of mandatory inspections under the Uniform Dwelling Code, conducted by certified UDC inspectors. The minimum inspection sequence includes five stages, though most projects involve more inspections when electrical, plumbing, and HVAC are inspected separately by trade-specific inspectors. The standard inspection sequence for new residential construction in Wisconsin is as follows. First, the footing inspection occurs before concrete is poured — the inspector verifies that footing trenches are dug to the correct depth (48 inches below grade in most of Wisconsin), correct width, properly reinforced if required, and that the soil bearing conditions are adequate. Second, the foundation inspection happens after foundation walls are poured and stripped (forms removed) but before backfill — the inspector checks wall thickness, height, waterproofing, drainage tile, and anchor bolt placement. Third, the rough-in inspection is the most comprehensive stage and may involve multiple visits — the inspector checks structural framing (wall, floor, and roof framing, sheathing, nail patterns, header sizing, fire blocking), rough electrical (wire routing, box placement, circuit identification, panel wiring), rough plumbing (drain, waste, and vent piping, water supply lines, pressure testing), and rough HVAC (ductwork, equipment placement, combustion air, venting). Fourth, the insulation inspection verifies that insulation type, R-values, and installation quality meet Wisconsin's energy code (SPS 323) — this must happen before drywall covers the insulation. Fifth, the final inspection is conducted after all work is complete and covers everything from finished electrical (outlets, switches, GFCI/AFCI protection, smoke and CO detectors) to finished plumbing (fixture installation, water heater, exterior hose bibs) to final grading and drainage around the foundation. In many municipalities, the rough-in stage is split into separate trade inspections: a framing inspection, a rough electrical inspection, a rough plumbing inspection, and a rough HVAC inspection, each conducted by the appropriate trade inspector. Additional inspections may include: a pre-slab inspection (before pouring a basement slab or garage floor), a fireplace or wood stove inspection, a radon system inspection, and an erosion control inspection. Some municipalities also require a pre-drywall inspection that combines the insulation check with a final look at all rough-in work. Timing is critical — you must schedule each inspection before proceeding to the next stage of construction. Work that is covered up before being inspected (such as insulation covered by drywall, or plumbing buried in a slab) may need to be uncovered at your expense. Most municipalities require 24 to 48 hours advance notice for inspection scheduling. The final inspection results in either a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) — you cannot legally occupy the home until one of these is issued.

Check Your Municipality

Permit requirements, fees, and exemptions vary by municipality. Verify the specifics for your location.