The Remote Video Inspection program allows customers to have specific residential construction inspections scheduled at a pre-scheduled time via live video chat. This can be a time savings option for customers because the inspector can inspect projects via video feed from a centralized computer.
Residents or contractors use a smart phone with front and rear cameras (with 4G or wi-fi connection) to send a live video feed of the completed work to a centrally located inspector at a specific prescheduled time. Once the video link is established, you simply follow the inspector's instructions on where to point the camera. Eligible permits include the following:
Main breaker "de-rate" for photovoltaic (solar) panel installations
Electrical service upgrades (up to 200 AMP)
Electric meter socket replacement
Minor electrical work
Water heater replacement
Minor plumbing work
Plumbing, Repipe 1 Bathroom
Plumbing, Repipe 2 Bathrooms
Plumbing, Repipe 3+ Bathrooms
Repair/replace gas line
Gas clearance
Sewer lines
To schedule a remote video inspection, call 602-262-7811 and an operator will assist you. You will need your permit number, inspection type, and a working e-mail address to receive a video meeting invitation.
Getting Your Phone/Mobile Device Ready
Ensure your inspection location has 4G connectivity and your smart phone or tablet has 4G connectivity. 3G connectivity may not provide the speed and clarity required to complete the inspection. If the video connection is not sufficient, the inspection may record the inspection result as not-ready, partial, or failed and schedule an in-person inspection.
1. 4G wireless service
Ensure your inspection location has 4G connectivity and your smart phone or tablet has 4G connectivity -- 3G connectivity may not provide the speed and clarity required to complete the inspection. If the video connection is insufficient, the inspector may record the inspection result as not-ready, partial, or failed as applicable, and schedule an in-person inspection. (See item 8: What Happens if an Inspection Fails)
2. Set up Cisco WebEx
Download the Cisco WebEx app (available in the Apple or Google Play app stores) to your smart phone. You must successfully complete the download to your device before receiving the electronic invitation from the inspector for your video inspection. For more details on the app, view the complete WebEx logon instructions for Android and iPhone.
3. Make sure your phone is fully charged at the scheduled inspection time.
Prepare for the Inspection
Prior to your scheduled inspection time, ensure that you have gathered all the necessary tools to conduct the inspection. For example, carry or have available a tape measure, level, GFCI receptacle tester, step ladder, flashlight, or any other tool necessary to verify the work meets code requirements. Remote video inspection may require moving from point to point at the work location to capture video views of the completed word. By agreeing to use this service, you assume all risk related to it, including risks posed by obstacles or trip hazards on your property. Please be safe. Before your inspection, please review the route you will follow during the inspection to remove any hazards or obstacles.
1. Schedule the inspection:
Phone our office at 602-262-7811; an operator will assist you. You will need your permit number and inspection type, and a working e-mail address to receive a video meeting invitation.
2. Prepare for the inspection:
Prior to your scheduled inspection time, ensure that you have gathered and have accessible all the necessary tools to conduct the inspection. For example, carry or have available a tape measure, level, GFCI receptacle tester, step ladder, flash light etc. or any other tool necessary to verify the work meets code requirements. Remote video inspection may require moving from point to point at the work locatin to capture video views of the completed word. By agreeing to use this service, you assume all risk related to it, including risks posed by obstacles or trip hazards on your property. So please be safe; before your inspection please review the route you will follow during the inspection to remove any hazards or obstacles.
3. Prepare to receive the Cisco WebEx emailed invitation:
Make sure the smart phone or tablet is fully charged.
Be ready to accept the video call at the scheduled time.
Turn off phone notifications that may interrupt the phone call that the WebEx meeting generates. This is an important step because notifications freeze the connection and will cause delays to the inspection.
iPhone iOS 8.4 in Settings
Tap on "Do Not Disturb"
Set the “Manual” Slider button to be green
Scroll down to “Silence”
Tap next to “Always” to add a check mark
Android OS 5: In Settings
Tap Sounds and Notifications
Under Notifications section, “Do Not Disturb,” tap “Off”
If you have ear buds with an integrated microphone, use them -- they'll make it easier to communicate with the inspector
Remember to restore your preferred settings after your inspection and call is complete.
Inspection Instructions
Once the inspection begins, follow the inspector's directions.
Begin the inspection at the street view looking at the structure.
The address number must be visible so the inspector can verify the location.
Walk the inspection in a clockwise direction horizontally.
If there are multiple floors, walk the inspection from bottom to top vertically.
Make note of any correction items.
The inspector will tell you if the inspection passed and send a notification via e-mail.
If the inspection fails, comments will be available to view on our web site and will be emailed to you. The inspector will assess an additional fee for re-inspection, if applicable. The customer must pay the fee prior to scheduling re-inspection. You may pay online or call 602-262-7811 to pay over the phone.
Scheduling of same day re-inspections is based on availability of time slots in the calendaring service. Your inspector may provide the option for you to send a correction video or photos to virtualinspections@phoenix.gov.