The days of waiting for the building inspectorβs visit may be over.
Pima Countyβs Development Services Department has started a remote inspection program that uses Skype to connect inspectors with clients for same-day approval, said Rich Franz-Γnder, green program manager for the countyβs development services department.
The program, which rolled out Oct. 1, works for all types of building permits if electronic copies of the plans have been filed with the county. The city of Tucson does not have a comparable program.
But Jim Mazzocco, planning administrator for the city, said the planning department will be monitoring the countyβs initiative.
Franz-Γnder said two of the eight county inspectors are dedicated to the remote program.
He explains the program:
Q: How does it work?
A: Using the online calendar, customers can schedule a time for a remote inspection, available in 30-minute increments.
Q: How much notice must I give?
A: Appointments can be scheduled within the hour, if thereβs availability.
Q: How will the inspector know itβs the correct house?
A: The inspection will begin with a street view of the property in which the address must be visible.
Q: What technology is required?
A: 4G wireless service or Wi-Fi is required for the remote inspection. Instructions for creating a Skype account are on the site.
Q: What tools are required?
A: Items such as a tape measure, level, GFCI tester and stepladder for ceiling close-ups will be required, depending on the work.
Q: How soon will an inspection be approved?
A: The inspector will inform the customer at the conclusion of the remote inspection if it has passed.
Q: What if it fails?
A: The inspector will notify the customer if a second inspection can be done remotely or if it will require a site visit.
Q: Is there a fee?
A: The cost of inspections varies, depending on whatβs required. Thereβs no additional cost for a remote inspection.
Q: Where can I find more information?
A: Find detailed instructions at pima.gov/
remoteinspections
