Building Inspections

Building inspections ensure that projects are constructed in compliance with codes and the approved permit and plans. View a list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Information You Need Before Requesting an Inspection

Building Inspectors are all-trade combinations and can perform all trades inspections. Prior to requesting your inspection, please have the following information available:

Permit number (last 6 digits), contractor's name and phone number of the person on site for inspection.
Project address
Type of inspection needed (e.g., rough frame, electric rough, plumbing rough and etc.).
Date desired for inspection

Virtual Inspections

The City of San Mateo is equipped to conduct virtual inspections to facilitate efficient project oversight. These inspections are available on an as-needed basis and are initiated by the building inspector assigned to the project. This approach ensures that inspections are conducted promptly and leverages technology to streamline the process. By integrating virtual inspections into our service offerings, we aim to enhance convenience for stakeholders and maintain high standards of safety and compliance in all construction projects within our jurisdiction. This capability significantly expands our inspection availability, allowing us to meet the needs of construction projects effectively. To request a virtual inspection, reach out to your project inspector.

Requesting an Inspection

There are some important facts to keep in mind when requesting an inspection:

To request an inspection, visit the Customer Self-Service (CSS) portal, available 24 hours, seven days a week.
We do not accept same day inspection requests.
There is a 3:00 PM deadline for scheduling next day inspections.
AM/PM inspection request times are only noted as a preference and cannot be guaranteed.
Contractors shall prepare for their inspections by having a qualified employee at the site with plans, a permit/job card ready for the inspector. If the site is not ready, or plans and a permit card are not present, contractors may be subject to re-inspection fees, in an amount established by the comprehensive fee schedule.
Please expect to be contacted by your inspector before 9:00 AM on the morning of your inspection, at which point you will receive your 2-hour inspection window and confirmation of wither an in-person or virtual inspection. It is important to input the field contact number during the scheduling. It is best not to use the call center or dispatch number, but the actual person who will be present at the inspection.
The updated daily inspection 2-hour window report will be published at 9:00 AM, located here.
Inspection requests are not confirmed until you get a confirmation email by our automated system. Generally, the email confirmation will be sent the night before the scheduled inspection date around 5:00 PM.
Inspections are performed during normal business hours, typically 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
After hours inspections can be requested by first contacting your project inspector to review necessity and availability. Additional fees are applicable per the City Council Adopted Comprehensive Fee Schedule and must be paid prior to requesting the after-hours inspection.

To Cancel an Inspection

Inspection requests can be cancelled via the CSS Portal before receiving the confirmation email stating that your request has been scheduled. You can also call (650) 522-7172 to cancel. Please be advised late cancellations of less than 24 hours prior or same day may be assessed a re-inspection fee per the City Council Adopted Comprehensive Fee Schedule.