Identify inspection scams

Be alert and avoid getting scammed by fake inspectors Identify inspection scams

If you are renovating your basement, altering the structure of your home, or changing a natural gas, electrical or plumbing system, you require City permits and inspections. In such cases, the homeowner or contractor will schedule most inspections.

If a person wants to inspect your home without an appointment, it may not be legitimate. Do not let them in as they are not officially appointed by The City of Calgary.

It is essential to be cautious of individuals who claim to represent government energy groups and request you to inspect your furnace or water heater to check if it is safe and energy efficient. These individuals will often wear orange vest, carry picture ID, and clipboards of documents.

How to identify Safety Codes Officer (SCO) or city inspectors?

The official Safety Codes Officer (SCO) or city inspectors will identify themselves with a City of Calgary picture ID badge. After applying for a building or trade permit, city inspectors often visit homes to verify that renovations or additions meet Alberta’s safety codes. The homeowner schedules an appointment through the city to have an inspection done. 

Once your building, electrical or plumbing permit has been issued, book and manage your inspections through the Inspections Booking System, using your myID account. Book, reschedule or cancel your inspections all through the online tool. City inspectors will visit homes, after an appointment is scheduled, to verify that renovations or additions meet Alberta's safety codes.

Occasionally, a Safety Codes Officer may conduct unscheduled visits to residences to follow up on expiring permits. In that case, the officer will identify themselves with their picture ID badge. If the officer fails to identify themselves, the homeowner may ask for their identification, including their picture ID badge.  

Other tips to ensure the identification and credibility of a city inspector or safety codes officer include:

  • Checking contact information: Before or during the inspection, a homeowner can contact 311 to confirm the inspector's identity. 
  • Inspect the vehicle: Legitimate city officials will drive vehicles marked with The City’s logo or department name. 
  • Contact the Police: If you suspect the officer is not legitimate or is behaving suspiciously, you can contact the local Police and report the incident.

Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, a city inspector will visit without an appointment if: 

  • There is visible damage to your property 
  • Electrical or gas repairs are potentially required  

Only a qualified, licensed contractor can repair before restoring the services safely.  

Technical Assistance Centre

Our Safety codes Officer can provide information and technical assistance concerning applicable Alberta Safety Codes, including building, electrical, plumbing, natural gas and propane.

Many commonly asked technical questions can be found on calgary.ca/tac, along with an online inquiry form for additional questions. 

Permit responsibility

It is the responsibility of the homeowners to obtain necessary permits and to ensure all inspections are complete. 

To find out if you need a permit for your work or to check if any required permits and inspections are complete at your address, contact our Planning Services Call Centre at 403-268-5311.

Related links

This information has no legal status and cannot be used as an official interpretation of the various bylaws, codes and regulations currently in effect. The City of Calgary accepts no responsibility to persons relying solely on this information. Web pages are updated periodically. ​

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