Decks

Under the Ontario Building Code, the person who is issued a permit is required to provide notification to the Building Standards department when various stages of construction are ready to be inspected.

Below is information on the various inspections that may be required for a project, where applicable. Questions about the stages of construction required for a project can be directed to the Building Standards department and request to speak to a building inspector.

Inspection categories

Wood decks

Excavation/footing: An inspection is required before pouring concrete. At this point, excavation is complete, footing forms are secured in place on undisturbed ground, the ground within the forms is not frozen, and is free from standing water, mud and loose materials.

Final inspection/exterior: Structural work is completed including stairs, guards and handrails. Exterior grading is complete.

Concrete decks

Excavation/footing: An inspection is required before pouring concrete. At this point, excavation is complete, footing forms are secured in place on undisturbed ground, the ground within the forms is not frozen, and is free from standing water, mud and loose materials.

Structural framing: An inspection is required before pouring the concrete, once all formwork and reinforcing steel is completed.

Final inspection/exterior: Structural work is completed, including the installation of all stairs, guards and handrails. Exterior grading is complete.

Composite decks

Certain composite deck material may not be recognized by the current Ontario Building Code. Various composite deck materials have been evaluated by the Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC), a designated material evaluation body in Division C of the Building Code. Manufacturers of products evaluated by CCMC make an application to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs for a Minister’s ruling to approve the use of their product in the province of Ontario.

When considering composite deck materials, it is important to verify the following prior to considering a composite product:

• That the composite deck material proposed for use on the project has a Minister’s ruling
• That any required installation requirements that may have been included in the ruling are reviewed

Excavation/footing: An inspection is required prior to pouring concrete. At this point, excavation is complete, footing forms are secured in place on undisturbed ground, the ground within the forms is not frozen, and is free from standing water, mud and loose materials.

Final inspection/exterior: Structural work is completed including stairs, guards and handrails. Handrail and guard connections may require the involvement of a professional engineer. Exterior grading is complete.

Read more about how to schedule an inspection for a construction project.