Final Grading Inspection Checklist for Residential Development

Use this checklist to verify your site is ready before requesting the final grading inspection. Inspectors check these items in this sequence on most residential grading projects.

1. Pad Elevations

• All pads have been surveyed and certified by the civil engineer of record.
• Every pad elevation is within the tolerance stated on the grading plan (typically ±0.10 ft).
• The pad certification letter is ready to present to the inspector.
• Finished pad grade matches the design finish floor elevation (FFE) on the plan, less the slab thickness.

2. Lot Drainage

• All lots drain away from the pad at minimum 2% for the first 10 feet from the foundation perimeter.
• No ponding areas exist anywhere on the lot surface.
• Drainage flows to the street, swale, or approved outlet — not to an adjacent property.
• Side yard drainage is positive to the rear or front — not trapped.

3. Swales and Drainage Features

• All swales have minimum 1% longitudinal slope.
• Swale cross-sections match the grading plan width and depth.
• No high points or level sections within swales that would cause ponding.
• Swale outlets connect to a drainage facility or street — no ponding at swale end.
• Top of curb elevations at catch basins match the grading plan.

4. Slopes and Setbacks

• All cut and fill slopes match the plan ratios (typically 2:1 maximum).
• Slope setbacks from property lines are per the grading plan and local code.
• Top and toe of slope locations match the plan.
• No un-staked or unfinished slopes in the project area.

5. Erosion Control

• All slopes steeper than 3:1 have approved erosion control installed (hydroseeding, jute mat, straw wattles, or per the SWPPP).
• Temporary BMPs are in place at all drainage outlets.
• No active rilling, gullying, or bare areas without erosion protection.
• SWPPP is current and matches installed conditions.

1. Pad elevation out of tolerance. One or more pads not certified or certified but outside the plan tolerance. Fix: re-grade and re-certify before requesting re-inspection.
2. Ponding in side or rear yards. Flat grade at property lines or trapped drainage areas. Fix: re-grade with additional slope toward a drainage outlet.
3. Swale not draining. Level section in a swale, blocked outlet, or swale profile not matching the plan. Fix: regrade the swale to restore positive slope.
4. Missing or inadequate erosion control. Slopes without hydroseeding or matting, or bare areas without BMPs. Fix: install approved erosion control and schedule re-inspection after adequate establishment.
5. Incomplete documentation package. Certification letter not ready, compaction reports not assembled. Fix: prepare the full package before scheduling the inspection — never request an inspection with incomplete documentation.