Honestly, I just want someone to hand me a checklist that actually matches what the inspector wants. Half the stuff they ask for isn’t even in the code book. I tried asking about variances and got a blank stare... maybe it’s a secret menu thing?
maybe it’s a secret menu thing?
That’s honestly how it feels sometimes. I’ve had different inspectors flag totally random stuff that wasn’t in any code I could find—one even wanted extra duct supports “just because.” It’s like you have to guess what mood they’re in. Would be so much easier if there was a universal checklist, but every town seems to have its own unwritten rules. I started keeping my own running list after each inspection... not perfect, but at least I’m not blindsided as often.
Title: Struggling With Ventilation Inspection Requirements Lately
That running list idea is actually pretty smart—wish I’d thought of that when I started. I totally get what you mean about the “secret menu” vibe. The last inspector I had wanted a damper in a spot none of the code books even mention, just because he said it “made sense.” Sometimes I wonder if they’re just bringing their own preferences to the job.
It’s wild how much the requirements shift from one place to another, too. Even neighboring towns seem to have different pet peeves. I’ve started snapping pics of everything before inspections, just to have a record in case someone questions it later—hasn’t saved me every time, but it helps.
Honestly, it feels like half the battle is learning the inspector as much as learning the code. Not super efficient, but at least you’re not alone in feeling blindsided. Hang in there... eventually you sort of get a sixth sense for what they’ll nitpick.
Yeah, I’ve been there. First time dealing with this stuff and I was floored by how random the requirements seemed. My inspector flagged my bathroom fan vent because it was “too close” to the soffit, even though the plans were approved. Makes you wonder if they just make it up as they go sometimes. I started keeping a notebook of every weird thing that comes up—helps a bit, but it’s still a headache.
STRUGGLING WITH VENTILATION INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS LATELY
Man, I totally get what you mean about inspectors and their “creative” interpretations. I had a similar thing with my kitchen range hood vent—one inspector said it was fine, then the next guy flagged it for being too close to a window. The kicker? The window wasn’t even operable. Sometimes I think they just want to keep us on our toes.
Here’s what’s helped me: whenever I’m planning anything that needs venting, I double-check the local code (even if the plans are stamped). Then, before I actually install, I’ll snap a few pics and email them to the inspection office asking if it looks good. It’s not foolproof, but at least there’s a paper trail if someone changes their mind later.
Keeping a notebook is smart—I’ve started jotting down every oddball comment or “suggestion” too. It’s like building your own personal codebook... except with more crossed-out sections and question marks in the margins. Hang in there—it gets easier once you’ve seen all the curveballs they can throw.
