Structural Framing & Shear Wall Inspection Checklist (IRC 2024)
Mandatory technical requirements and inspection checkpoints to guarantee passing municipal building inspections and avoiding re-inspection penalty fees.
📋 Critical Inspection Checkpoints
All window and door headers must have minimum 1.5 inches of bearing on jack/trimmer studs per IRC Table R602.7(1).
Edge nails spaced 4 to 6 inches on center; field nails spaced 12 inches on center using approved 8d common nails.
1/2-inch anchor bolts embedded minimum 7 inches into foundation, spaced maximum 6 feet apart and within 12 inches of each sill plate end.
Install 2x fireblocking in concealed spaces of stud walls at ceiling/floor levels and vertical intervals < 10 feet.
Bored holes in bearing studs must not exceed 40% of stud depth (60% if double studs); notches must not exceed 25%.
❌ Top 4 Most Common Inspection Failures
- ❌ Plumbing/HVAC trades over-notching or over-boring structural load-bearing studs.
- ❌ Missing fireblocking in wall chases, drop ceilings, and soffits.
- ❌ Improper nail spacing or over-driven nail heads penetrating OSB shear panel face.
- ❌ Missing hurricane tie-down clips connecting roof rafters to top plate.
💡 Re-Inspection Avoidance Protocol
Do not call for framing inspection until trade rough-ins (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) have already received their green approval tags.
Need a Licensed Contractor or Code Expediter?
Work with certified professionals who guarantee code-compliant installations that pass municipal inspection on the first visit.