Commercial Inspections

Building codes set different standards, called occupancy classifications, that designate the purpose of a building or structure. Those occupancy classifications are applied based on potential hazards and risks to people within that building or structure. Commercial (or non-residential) inspections take place after a permit is issued for a construction project. These project types include work on the following:

Assembly:
Groups A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, and A-5. Including, but not limited to, the following: motion picture theaters, restaurants, gymnasiums, swimming pools, etc.
Business:
Group B. Including, but not limited to, the following: banks, car washes, post offices, professional services, etc.
Educational:
Group E. Including, but not limited to, the following: schools not affiliated with Wake County Schools, daycare facilities, etc.
Factory and Industrial:
Groups F-1 and F-2. Including, but not limited to, the following: bakeries, glass product manufacturing, etc.
High Hazard:
Groups H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4, and H-5. Including, but not limited to, the following: toxic materials, flammable gases, consumer fireworks, etc.
Institutional:
Groups I-1, I-2, I-3, and I-4. Including, but not limited to, the following: assisted living facilities, correctional centers, hospitals, etc.
Mercantile:
Group M. Including, but not limited to, the following: department stores, motor fuel-dispensing facilities, etc.
Residential:
Groups R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4. Including, but not limited to, the following: hotels, monasteries, apartment buildings, etc.
Storage:
Groups S-1 and S-2. Including, but not limited to, the following: motor vehicle repair garages, parking garages, etc.
Utility and Miscellaneous:
Group U. Including, but not limited to, the following: carports, fences greater than 6 feet in height, etc.

Certified commercial inspectors use the N.C. Building and trade Codes to review the design, construction, and installation of building systems. These codes help keep the community safe. All inspectors are state certified and specialize in one or more trade areas like:

Building
Electrical
Mechanical
Plumbing
Fire

Our goal is to deliver inspections that are courteous, fair, timely, and reliable. To schedule a Commerical (or non-residential) inspection, use the Permit and Development Portal.

Tips for a Successful Inspection

Include notes with your inspection request (such as a site contact number and areas needing inspection).
Ensure inspectors have access to all areas that need to be inspected; sometimes someone familiar with the project may need to guide them.
Have City approved plans available on site.
Communicate any issues or concerns related to the work.
Be prepared. The work scheduled for inspections must be complete and ready prior to scheduling.
Provide any supporting documents that may help the inspector. This can include third party reports, engineered details, or manufacturer information.

High Rise Team

Some construction projects need more support. These projects are assigned to a “High Rise Team”. This team of inspectors can approve certain changes differently than in a standard project. The plan review process determines if a project is eligible for the High Rise Team. If your project needs this level of support, discuss it early in the design and review stage. 

Code Interpretations

Code interpretations are provided by the NC Department of Insurance (DOI). The interpretations provide consistency and clarity for inspectors and contractors for an inspection process. 
City of Raleigh inspectors provide interpretations as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). If the DOI later issues a formal interpretation, the DOI interpretation takes precedence.
- NCOSFM code interpretations
- Technical Bulletins

Remote Inspections

Live Remote Inspections (LRI) are voluntary and primarily focused on re-inspections. It’s best to discuss remote options with your inspector before requesting them.

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