Good point about manufacturers having documentation handy... but do you think inspectors are more cautious with residential remodels compared to commercial projects? I've noticed they sometimes seem stricter when it's someone's home versus a business property. Curious if others see that too.
"I've noticed they sometimes seem stricter when it's someone's home versus a business property."
Yeah, I've seen this too, but honestly, it depends a lot on the inspector. Had a remodel last year where the inspector was super picky about residential codes—down to the smallest detail like railing heights and outlet spacing. Yet, just a month later, same city, different inspector on a commercial job... guy barely glanced at half the stuff we prepped for inspection. Felt like night and day.
I think part of it is inspectors know homeowners are less familiar with codes, so they're extra cautious to avoid liability or complaints later. Commercial projects usually have architects or engineers involved who know the drill, so inspectors might feel more comfortable letting minor things slide.
Still, I've had residential jobs breeze through inspection too. So while I get your point, I wouldn't generalize too much—it's really hit or miss depending on who's holding the clipboard that day.
Yeah, inspectors can be all over the place. Had one guy nitpick my deck railing height down to a quarter inch, yet ignored the sketchy wiring in my garage... makes you wonder, do they even follow the same checklist?
Inspectors definitely seem inconsistent at times, but honestly, I think it comes down to what catches their eye. Had a similar experience when we did our kitchen remodel—inspector was laser-focused on venting clearances and totally ignored the wonky plumbing under the sink. But later, talking to a friend who's in construction, he said inspectors often prioritize issues based on what's visible or what's been flagged recently in their area. So maybe your railing was just fresh on his mind or something he got dinged for before?
Not saying it's right—just that there's probably some method behind the madness. Plus, sketchy wiring isn't always obvious unless they're specifically looking for it or if it's part of the inspection scope. Still, you'd think there'd be more consistency or clearer guidelines... guess that's wishful thinking though, haha.
Yeah, inspectors can be pretty hit-or-miss. When we redid our bathroom, the guy obsessed over outlet placement but totally missed some questionable tile work... guess it's just luck of the draw sometimes. Hang in there!
