This inspection takes place just before the walls and ceilings are plastered. By this stage, all plumbers, electricians, heating and cooling specialists, and other trades will have completed the installation of their pipework and cabling. The carpenters will also have finished straightening the walls, hanging external doors, and often fitting the shower bases and baths.

During this inspection, we identify any changes or modifications made to the frame since the original frame inspection. This is an essential step, as many of the trades mentioned above may cut, notch, or drill through framing members to run their services—sometimes without considering the structural importance of those components.

Carpenters may also plane back the edges of studs to straighten the walls, which can sometimes reduce them below the minimum size required. In some cases, diagonal bracing may be removed to allow for the installation of baths or other fixtures.

All of these issues can affect the structural integrity of your home, which is why this inspection is so important.