City adopted a new provision in the Building Code

A few years ago the City adopted a new provision in the Building Code to allow the use of private inspectors.

An engineer or architect only need to be registered with the City and they are automatically regarded as Private inspectors due to their professional accreditation. A General Contractor can also be a private inspector.

You really don't need an electrical engineer but just an engineer or architect willing to inspect the wiring through some open spaces (attics, under the house, etc) and sign a note the work is compliant with the National electrical Code and specifically compliant with the Florida Code (if needed).

I had a similar problem in a house we were doing in Springfield a few years ago and that we took from another contractor. Some of the work wasn't inspected but instead of taking down the walls (as the City wanted), we only opened about 12" from the ceiling so the electrical inspector was able to see the wires, the building inspector was able to see that no fire caulking was installed (don't forget about this if you have to open the wall) and we only had to replace some drywall.

Don't let the City intimidate you into taking all the walls down. See exactly what they want to inspect and then come up with a solution that fits your needs too (saving some money for starters).

Some electrical inspectors only would want to look for the wire being the right size (what he can see at the devices or at the top of the wall) and that the wire is stapled (which he can also see from the top of the wall... with some effort of course) so no need to take ALL the walls down.

I don't have all the numbers with me but they are some good electrical engineers at Ossi & Meyer (please find the contact info below) and also at the Omega Group . They specially in MEP drawings and inspections.

If you need anything else please don't hesitate to call me. Fabian VidelaAMV General Contractors A Smarter Investments Corp companyPh. 904-981-9400Fax: 904-981-9499Cell: 904-237-4904