Remote Virtual Inspections (RVI)

A form of visual inspection which uses visual or electronic aids to allow an inspector or team of inspectors to observe products and/or materials from a distance because the objects are inaccessible or are in dangerous environments, or whereby circumstances or conditions prevent an in-person inspection.

Process

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Village of Orland Park continues to provide precautions to provide a high level of service to residents, businesses and contractors. Remote Virtual Inspections (RVI) is being added as an option. The contractor must demonstrate that they have access to the technology that will allow the Village to complete the RVI.

Currently, all inspections received by 4:00pm on a weekday will be completed that next weekday. If you are requesting a RVI – please allow an additional 2 business days to determine if the requested inspection is eligible. This window will allow the Village’s Building Official to review the request and make the appropriate accommodations. The Village Building Official has discretion to allow RVI. Some inspections may be deemed too complicated for RVI in which case, the Building Official will determine a supplementary in-person inspection is required.

In cases where an RVI is not suitable or technology fails to provide sufficient visual clarity (i.e., poor/no service or Wi-Fi, poor lighting, etc.), an onsite inspection may be required. Where Wi-Fi and/or cellular reception are poor or not available, in-person inspections will be required.

The applicable Codes and Standards to be used for RVI are the same as the adopted codes and referenced standards of the Village. The implementation of the RVI is intended to achieve the same results as the typical in-person site inspection by applying the provisions of adopted codes such as the IBC®, IRC®, IFC® and other applicable codes.

All RVI applicants must complete and return a Waiver of Liability form. 

 Click here to download the Waiver form. 

1. You must have the zoom.us application or FaceTime on your phone or tablet in order to conduct the RVI.

2. Prior to scheduling the applicant must be aware that the zoom.us and FaceTime are not Village of Orland Park applications and the applicant is subject to the terms and conditions associated with the third party applications. The applicant’s responsibility to review the terms and conditions of each application and comply with the specific requirements.

3. Ensure there is an active permit issued or the appropriate one prior to attempting to schedule an inspection for the project in question.

4. All remote inspections must be scheduled a minimum of two business days prior to the requested date.

5. Electronically sign a notice indicating that you consent to the use of the RVI using zoom.us or FaceTime.

6. Click here to schedule inspections online.

7. Must be at least 18 years old or with an adult to perform the video inspection.

8. When scheduling the inspection, provide the address, permit number, and type and number of requested inspections.

9. Village of Orland Park Building Official will determine if the request is eligible for RVI and contact the applicant. The inspector(s) involved with the inspection will determine the appropriate timing with the contractor and schedule an agreed upon time for the virtual inspection.

10. If approved, please prepare for the inspection as described below.

1. Prior to the inspection, ensure that:

1.1. The jobsite is safe at all times for the individual(s) using the device during the remote inspection including health safety.

1.2. The device (smartphone, tablet, drone, etc.) is fully charged and has a suitably charged additional power supply (battery pack).

1.3. The use of a noise-canceling head-set is recommended.

1.4. The jobsite has high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity or minimum 4G cellular service with a strong signal.

1.5. The necessary tools based on type of inspection are readily available.

1.5.1. For example, carry a flashlight, tape measure, level, step ladder (for close ups of ceiling), GFCI tester, etc. An extending pole for the video device, such as selfie pole, may be very helpful in taking the smartphone or other video device closer to the point of inspection in various places such as very high ceilings.

2. Have approved plans, permit card, and other necessary construction documents available onsite.

3. Make sure good lighting is available and clear the area of any unnecessary objects.

4. All features applicable to the required inspection must be visible at the time of the remote inspection. These features must be captured sufficiently and clearly for the inspector to evaluate.

5. If at any point the inspector believes that the remote inspection process is not allowing them to properly assess compliance, they may require that a site inspection be required at a future date at the sole discretion of the inspector.

5.1. In areas within the jobsite where there is no Wi-Fi or cell service, at the sole discretion of the inspector, the inspector will perform in-person inspection at a later time.

1. Ensure that the lens and screen of any device being used to capture images or video has been cleaned. Dust, grit, smudges, etc., might interfere with the image quality and distorting the inspector’s view.

2. To minimize interruptions during the RVI and to ensure that the video feed will be uninterrupted, make sure that all notifications are turned off in the Settings of the mobile device used for the RVI. Should the video be interrupted, the inspection could be delayed or may have to be re-scheduled.

3. Be prepared to answer the inspector’s call at any time during the scheduled time frame. Be cooperative and closely follow the inspector’s instructions.

4. As each site and inspection is different, allow the proper amount of time for the type of inspection and accessibility of the site.