Understanding New Construction Inspections in Baldwin County, Alabama
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
If you’re building a new home on the Gulf Coast—especially in Baldwin County or on Ono Island—it’s essential to understand the inspection requirements that come with pulling a building permit. As a real estate advisor and homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve helped many buyers and builders navigate this process, and staying compliant from the start is key to avoiding costly delays and penalties.
Whether your project involves new construction, additions, or even small trade upgrades like electrical or HVAC, inspections are mandatory. Let’s break down what you need to know.
Permit Timelines and Compliance
Once a building permit is issued, an inspection must be scheduled within 180 days, or the permit will expire. This means the project will fall out of compliance with the building construction laws and codes adopted by the Baldwin County Commission.
If a permit expires:
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You must apply for a Permit Reactivation, which includes additional fees
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Or you may be required to submit a new permit application and pay new permit fees
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Continuing construction after permit expiration could result in a Stop Work Order and a penalty of $150 per day
It is the permit holder’s responsibility to notify the Baldwin County Building Department when the project is ready for an inspection. If a contractor is managing the process, it is their duty to inform the building occupant about inspection dates and ensure the property is accessible for the inspector.
Required Inspections for New Construction Projects
Even if your project is small—like a mechanical upgrade or electrical repair—you’ll still need a final inspection. Larger projects, such as building a custom home, require multiple inspections at various stages of the construction process.
1. Pilings/Pier Holes Inspection
Before concrete is poured, the inspector checks hole depth, diameter, and rebar placement.
2. Footing Inspection
Performed after reinforcement is installed and supported—prior to foundation pour.
3. Plumbing Rough-In (Open Trench)
Inspects underground piping, usually with water head pressure testing.
4. Slab Ready to Pour (Not Plumbing)
Vapor barrier and wire mesh must be supported at 5-ft intervals.
Note: Compaction tests may be required at the inspector’s discretion.
Optional Early Inspections (If Applicable)
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Weather Resistant Barrier Inspection – If you’re installing siding or an exterior covering prior to the framing inspection.
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Brick Tie Inspection – If installing brick veneer before the 4-Way inspection.
5. 4-Way Inspection (Framing, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Sprinkler)
This is a major milestone in new construction. All trade permits must be in place prior to scheduling. Here’s what it includes:
Framing
Trusses, strapping, sheathing, flashing, vapor barrier, exterior doors/windows, thermal barriers, and more must be in place.
Mechanical
Ductwork, exhaust, attic equipment access (30-inch platform and 24-inch path), and condensate lines must be supported and sealed.
Electrical
Wiring, switch boxes, receptacles, smoke alarms, nail guards, and circuits must be fully landed in the sub panel.
Plumbing
All drain, vent, and water piping, along with boxes and fixtures (washer, tub/shower, ice maker, etc.) must be pressurized and supported.
Fire Sprinkler System
If applicable, blaze-orange piping must be pressurized, supported, and terminated.
6. Energy Inspection
This stage inspects insulation, air barriers, wall plates, and window/door sealing for code compliance and energy efficiency.
7. Final Building Inspection
This cannot be scheduled until the following are uploaded (if applicable):
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Duct Pressure Test
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Blower Door Test
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Finished Construction Elevation Certificate
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US Fish & Wildlife final inspection approval
Inspectors will also verify glazing protection and installed fasteners, where applicable.
8. Final Site Inspection (Zoned Properties Only)
This is performed by Planning & Zoning and applies to certain zoned lots across Baldwin County.
Note: Some inspections may be completed virtually using the Baldwin County online portal, where photos and documents are uploaded for approval.
Bonus for Ono Island: On-Island Oversight
If you're building on Ono Island, your project will also go through an additional layer of inspection beyond Baldwin County. Ono Island has its own inspector, who works alongside county officials and must approve several milestones throughout the process. This oversight ensures high-quality construction and community standards are met—an advantage that gives peace of mind to homeowners.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re building your forever home or a coastal retreat, understanding Baldwin County’s inspection process is crucial. Skipping steps or letting a permit expire can lead to costly reactivations, delays, or fines. I recommend working with builders who understand the local process and are familiar with both Baldwin County and Ono Island ARB guidelines.
If you’d like help coordinating inspections, selecting a builder, or reviewing your permit process, I’m always happy to assist.
Let’s make sure your home is built beautifully—and by the book.
Explore custom home opportunities and available lots on Ono Island:
www.searchthegulf.com/onoconstruction
www.searchthegulf.com/ono-island
Meredith Amon is a Gulf Coast Expert Real Estate Advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.
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