When should the second inspection be conducted for a building elevated on a crawlspace or columns?

The correct timing for the second inspection for a building elevated on a crawlspace or columns is after the foundation is completed. Conducting this inspection at this stage is crucial because it allows the inspector to verify that the foundation work has been properly executed according to FEMA guidelines, local building codes, and the specific requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This inspection ensures that the building is elevated to the appropriate Flood Protection Elevation (FPE) and that any structural elements meet the necessary criteria for flood resilience.

This timing also provides an opportunity to check structural integrity before additional stages of construction, such as framing, begin. Ensuring that the foundation is correctly done is foundational to the overall safety and effectiveness of the floodplain management system in which the building will exist. Once the foundation is inspected and deemed satisfactory, it can help streamline the subsequent phases of construction, leading to safer and more compliant building practices.