AskCodeMan

Code Man:

Is there a provision in the IRC which would prohbit the AHJ approving a final plumbing inspection of a single-family residential building without the kitchen appliances having been installed?

Thanks,

Aaron

Hi Aaron,

Which appliances are you referring to?

Plug in appliances do not need to be installed, the circuits are ready, the receptacle outlets are in, the protective covers on covering the device boxes.

Other appliances are a different matter, they must be in before the final inspection can be made as they are part of the: electrical system (permanently wired appliances); plumbing system (food waste grinder and dishwasher); and mechanical system (non-recirculating exhaust hood).

From the 2006 IRC. (underlining and bold are mine)
- R109.1.6 Final inspection. Final inspection shall be made after the permitted work is complete and prior to occupancy.

- P2503.5.2 Finished plumbing. After the plumbing fixtures have been set and their traps filled with water, their connections shall be tested and proved gas tight and/or water tight as follows:
- - (several options for testing follow)

- E3303.2 Inspection required. New electrical work and parts of existing systems affected by new work or alterations shall be inspected by the building official to ensure compliance with the requirements of Chapters 33 through 42.

Regarding Rough Inspections:
- R109.1.2 Plumbing, mechanical, gas and electrical systems inspection. Rough inspection of plumbing, mechanical, gas and electrical systems shall be made prior to covering or concealment, before fixtures or appliances are set or installed, and prior to framing inspection.
- - Exception: Back-filling of ground-source heat pump loop systems tested in accordance with Section M2105.1 prior to inspection shall be permitted.

I am not sure that answers what you were asking and seeking, however, remember, the code is a minimum standard regarding public safety.
- R101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to provide minimum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health and general welfare through affordability, structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment.

You may be asking if the building has to be suitable for habitation, which would include cooking facilities, etc., which is outside the purview of the building codes, but which would probably fall within the purview of the health, welfare, and sanitation codes within the health department.

Again, though, it would depend upon which appliances you are referring to.

Technically, it could be argued that if it is on the plans, i.e., it is 'part of' the "permitted work", and is not shown as 'not included', then it would be presumed to be 'included', in which case may be required to be installed to meet R109.1.6 cited above (and here):
- R109.1.6 Final inspection. Final inspection shall be made after the permitted work is complete and prior to occupancy.

Are "all" appliances included in the "permitted work"? That answer is "it depends".

Codeman