Once a building permit is issued, the local building department monitors the construction process through inspections at key stages (foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, final).

The purpose of these inspections is to ensure that work complies with state and local building codes and safety standards.

Maryland’s pre-licensing course explains that certified building inspectors—not peers or the builder—conduct these inspections.

Only after passing all required inspections will the department issue a certificate of occupancy (CO) confirming code compliance and permitting lawful use of the structure.