SOP Templates > Home Builder > Quality Control > Pre-Insulation Inspection Checklist

Pre-Insulation Inspection Checklist for Home Builder

This checklist is designed to ensure that all necessary preparations and inspections are completed before insulation is installed in a custom home. The checklist focuses on verifying the readiness of the thermal envelope, ensuring air sealing and moisture barriers are properly installed, confirming the completion of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) rough-ins, and checking framing readiness. Adhering to this checklist helps ensure compliance with energy codes, manufacturer specifications, and builder standards, ultimately contributing to the home’s energy efficiency, durability, and comfort.

Verify thermal envelope preparation

Step 1: Inspect exterior walls

Examine the exterior walls to ensure they are free from gaps, cracks, or any damage that could compromise insulation effectiveness. Use a flashlight to check for any light penetration through the walls, which indicates potential air leaks.

Step 2: Check attic and roof structure

Ensure the attic and roof structure are properly sealed and that there are no visible gaps or openings. Verify that all roof penetrations, such as vents and chimneys, are sealed with appropriate flashing and sealant.

Step 3: Examine floor systems

Inspect the floor systems, especially over unconditioned spaces, to ensure they are properly sealed and insulated. Look for any gaps or openings that could allow air infiltration.

Ensure air sealing is complete

Step 1: Check around windows and doors

Inspect the areas around windows and doors to ensure they are properly sealed with caulk or foam. Pay special attention to corners and edges where air leaks are most likely to occur.

Step 2: Inspect electrical and plumbing penetrations

Examine all electrical and plumbing penetrations through walls, floors, and ceilings. Ensure that these are sealed with appropriate materials, such as expanding foam or caulk, to prevent air leakage.

Step 3: Verify sealing of HVAC ducts

Check that all HVAC ducts are properly sealed with mastic or foil tape at joints and connections to prevent air leaks. Ensure that ductwork is insulated where required.

Confirm moisture barrier continuity

Step 1: Inspect vapor barriers

Examine vapor barriers on walls, floors, and ceilings to ensure they are properly installed and free from tears or gaps. Overlap seams by at least 6 inches and seal them with tape designed for vapor barriers.

Step 2: Check flashing around openings

Verify that flashing around windows, doors, and other openings is properly installed to direct water away from the building. Ensure that flashing is integrated with the moisture barrier to maintain continuity.

Step 3: Assess foundation moisture protection

Inspect the foundation for proper moisture protection, such as damp-proofing or waterproofing membranes. Ensure that drainage systems, like French drains, are in place and functioning.

Verify MEP rough-in completion

Step 1: Inspect plumbing rough-ins

Ensure that all plumbing pipes are installed and secured. Check for any leaks or damage and verify that pipes are properly insulated where required.

Step 2: Check electrical rough-ins

Verify that all electrical wiring is installed according to the plans and is properly secured. Ensure that electrical boxes are installed at the correct depth for the wall finish.

Step 3: Examine HVAC rough-ins

Inspect HVAC rough-ins to ensure that ductwork, vents, and equipment are installed according to the design. Check that all components are properly secured and sealed.

Check framing readiness

Step 1: Inspect wall framing

Check that wall studs are properly spaced and aligned. Ensure that there are no warped or damaged studs that could affect insulation installation.

Step 2: Verify ceiling and roof framing

Examine ceiling and roof framing to ensure it is properly installed and free from defects. Check for any sagging or misalignment that could impact insulation.

Step 3: Assess floor framing

Inspect floor joists and beams for proper installation and alignment. Ensure that there are no signs of damage or weakness that could affect structural integrity.

Ensure compliance with energy codes

Step 1: Review energy code requirements

Familiarize yourself with the applicable energy codes for the project. Ensure that all aspects of the thermal envelope, air sealing, and insulation preparations meet these requirements.

Step 2: Conduct a blower door test

Perform a blower door test to measure the home's air tightness. Ensure that the results meet or exceed the energy code requirements for air leakage.

Step 3: Document compliance

Record all findings and test results to demonstrate compliance with energy codes. Maintain documentation for future reference and inspections.

Verify manufacturer specifications

Step 1: Review product specifications

Examine the specifications for all materials used in the thermal envelope, air sealing, and moisture barriers. Ensure that installation methods and materials comply with these specifications.

Step 2: Check installation instructions

Verify that all installations follow the manufacturer's instructions. Pay attention to details such as fastener types, spacing, and sealing methods.

Step 3: Confirm warranty requirements

Ensure that all preparations meet the requirements for maintaining product warranties. Document any deviations and seek approval from the manufacturer if necessary.

Conduct final inspection

Step 1: Perform a walkthrough

Conduct a thorough walkthrough of the home, reviewing each area to ensure all tasks have been completed. Use a checklist to verify that no steps have been missed.

Step 2: Address any deficiencies

Identify and address any deficiencies or issues found during the walkthrough. Ensure that all corrections are made before proceeding with insulation installation.

Step 3: Sign off on inspection

Once all tasks are complete and deficiencies addressed, sign off on the inspection. Document the completion and readiness for insulation installation.

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