Bellingham, WA Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

4 authorizes the Building Official to make all required inspections directly or to accept written, certified reports from approved inspection agencies. 17: footing and foundation, concrete slab and under-floor, lowest floor elevation in flood hazard areas, exterior wall sheathing, roof sheathing, combined IMC/UPC/GAS/NEC rough-in, framing, connection protection for Type IV mass-timber buildings, weather-exposed balcony waterproofing, fire-and-smoke penetrations, energy efficiency (envelope, mechanical, lighting and motors), and other or special inspections the Building Official deems necessary. 9 bars proceeding past any inspected stage without Building Official sign-off; noncompliant portions must be corrected and stay uncovered until authorized.

14 lets the City charge a reinspection fee when work isn't complete, prior corrections weren't made, the same builder has repeat missed items, plans aren't on site, or the site isn't accessible, and no further inspection happens until that fee is paid. 17 sets the last stage: the final inspection, made only after all permitted work is complete. 7 must meet City qualification and reliability standards, keep certified written reports as part of the permit record, and submit a final report before the City will issue a certificate of occupancy.