Denver New Construction Inspection Checklist

Housing and Building Standards Colorado 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 07, 2026 Flag of Colorado

This guide explains inspection requirements for new construction in Denver, Colorado, with practical checklists, enforcement notes, and action steps for builders, contractors, and owners. It summarizes typical permit-related inspections, how to prepare sites, and who enforces compliance so you can plan inspections, avoid delays, and document corrections.

Required inspections and typical sequence

New construction projects in Denver generally follow a sequence of permit issuance, pre-construction checks, and staged inspections. Exact required inspections depend on the permit type and approved plans; confirm listed inspections on your permit record and schedule them before covering work.

  • Permit issuance and approved plans available on site.
  • Footings and foundation inspection before concrete pour.
  • Underground plumbing, electrical and mechanical before backfill.
  • Framing and structural inspections before insulation and drywall.
  • Rough electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspections.
  • Insulation and energy-code inspections where applicable.
  • Final inspections and certificate of occupancy or final approval.
Always verify the permit record and inspection list before scheduling.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for building and construction violations in Denver is managed through the citys development and code enforcement system; permit noncompliance and illegal work can prompt stop-work orders, correction notices, and administrative enforcement. The department responsible for building inspections and enforcement is Denver Development Services/Community Planning and Development.[1]

  • Monetary fines: specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence procedures and ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, correction orders, withholding of inspections, and court action are used as enforcement tools; exact remedies and processes are described in the municipal code and department rules.[2]
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: report unsafe or unpermitted work to Development Services; see the department contact and inspection request procedures.[1]
  • Appeals and review: formal appeal routes and time limits for appeals or reviews are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: permitted work, approved plans, variances, or demonstrated good faith corrections may affect enforcement outcomes; specific defenses are subject to municipal rules and adjudication.
If you receive a notice, act promptly: schedule corrective inspections and document compliance.

Applications & Forms

Common applications and forms for new construction include building permit applications, trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical), inspection request forms, and certificate of occupancy applications. Specific form names, numbers, fees, and submission steps are listed on the Denver Development Services pages and the municipal code where applicable. Exact fee schedules or form numbers are not specified on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Confirm required permits and approved plans before starting work.
  2. Obtain all trade permits and keep printed permit placards on site.
  3. Schedule staged inspections in the order required by the permit record.
  4. Correct any deficiencies promptly and request reinspection.
  5. Pay any required fees or fines through official channels if issued.
  6. Obtain final approval or certificate of occupancy before occupying the structure.
Keep a digital and printed inspection log with permit numbers and inspector names.

FAQ

What inspections are typically required for new construction?
Typical inspections include footing, foundation, underground utilities, framing, rough trades (electrical, plumbing, mechanical), insulation/energy, and final inspection. Exact requirements are listed on the project permit record.
How do I schedule an inspection in Denver?
Inspections are scheduled through Denver Development Services inspection request procedures or the e-permit portal; confirm scheduling windows and required documentation before the inspection.
What happens if work is done without a permit?
Unpermitted work can result in stop-work orders, correction notices, required retroactive permits, and enforcement action including fines; outcomes depend on the municipal code and department procedures.

Key Takeaways

  • Obtain permits and keep approved plans on site.
  • Schedule staged inspections and do not cover work before inspection.
  • Contact Development Services promptly for questions, complaints, and appeals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Denver Development Services - Building Inspections
  2. [2] Denver Municipal Code (Municode) - Municipal Code

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