STRUGGLING WITH VENTILATION INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS LATELY
- I get wanting to keep inspectors happy, but honestly, I’ve started pushing back a bit.
- If they ask for something weird, I just ask where it’s written down. Nine times out of ten, they can’t point to anything official.
- Saves me time and money not chasing random requests. I’d rather risk being “difficult” than spend extra on pointless fixes.
- Sometimes they back off when you politely ask for documentation... worth a shot if you’re tired of improvising.
STRUGGLING WITH VENTILATION INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS LATELY
Had a similar run-in last month—inspector wanted some extra venting in a spot that’s never been flagged before. I just asked him to show me the code section, and suddenly it wasn’t such a big deal. I get they have a job to do, but sometimes it feels like they’re making it up as they go. Not trying to cut corners, just don’t want to throw money at stuff that isn’t actually required.
STRUGGLING WITH VENTILATION INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS LATELY
- Been there. Had an inspector last year who wanted extra venting in a mechanical closet that’s passed for a decade. Suddenly it’s an issue? Sure, buddy.
- Pulled up the code book on my phone right there. Turns out, he was quoting from a section that didn’t even apply to residential. He backed off pretty quick.
- I get it, codes change, but sometimes it feels like they’re just flexing to see if you’ll push back or roll over.
- Not against following code—just don’t want to spend another $500 on ductwork that’s not actually needed.
- Honestly, half the time it comes down to how much coffee the inspector had that morning. Some are chill, some act like they’re on a mission from God.
Had one guy insist on a powered vent in a mudroom. I asked him if he wanted me to put one in the pantry too while I was at it... He didn’t laugh.
Best trick I’ve found:
- Keep a digital copy of the latest code handy.
- Ask them to show you the exact section—politely, but directly.
- If they can’t, stand your ground. Most will back off if you know your stuff.
Not saying all inspectors are out to get you, but man, some days it sure feels like it. Just wish there was more consistency. Makes planning (and budgeting) a nightmare.
Anyway, you’re not alone. Sometimes I think we should hand out “ventilation survivor” badges at the end of these jobs...
STRUGGLING WITH VENTILATION INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS LATELY
Man, I hear you on the inconsistency. Last project, inspector wanted “additional make-up air” for a laundry room that’s had the same setup in three other houses—never an issue before. Here’s my step-by-step now: 1) Screenshot the relevant code sections before the inspection. 2) Walk the inspector through my logic, calmly, like we’re solving a puzzle together. 3) If they dig in, I’ll ask for their supervisor’s take—no drama, just a second set of eyes. Not foolproof, but it’s saved me from a few headaches (and surprise costs). And yeah, can we get those survivor badges in bulk?
“Walk the inspector through my logic, calmly, like we’re solving a puzzle together.”
That’s honestly the best approach. I had a similar thing with a kitchen vent—three projects, same design, then suddenly it’s “not enough clearance” for the hood. I pulled up the code and even some old inspection reports, but the inspector just shrugged and said, “Interpretation changes.” Sometimes I wonder if they roll dice in the office before heading out. Your survivor badge idea made me laugh... we need a whole sash at this point.
