Kent County, DE Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

C sets the required inspection stages for any construction needing a permit. A footing and foundation inspection happens after excavation is complete and reinforcing steel is placed (C(1)); a concrete slab and under-floor inspection occurs after in-slab reinforcing and utilities are set but before concrete is poured or subfloor installed (C(2)); in flood hazard areas, an elevation certification for the lowest floor must be submitted before further vertical construction (C(3)); a frame inspection follows once the roof deck, framing, fire-blocking, bracing and rough electrical, plumbing and mechanical work are in place and approved (C(4)); fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations must stay exposed until inspected (C(5)); and energy efficiency inspections check envelope insulation, fenestration, duct R-values and HVAC/water-heating equipment, capped off with an energy compliance sticker in the electrical panel before a certificate of occupancy issues (C(6)).

Waterproofing inspections are required for any dwelling with a basement before it is backfilled (C(10)), and a final inspection closes out the permit once all required work and other agency approvals are complete (C(11)). The building official can also require other inspections needed to confirm code compliance (C(7)) and special inspections under IBC Chapter 17 (C(8)). F bars proceeding past any inspected stage without approval, requiring correction of any noncompliant work before it is covered or concealed.