The West Valley City Residential Video Inspection Program lets homeowners use video instead of an in-person visit for certain home inspections, including some follow-up inspections. This gives residents another option and improves customer service. The program requires the customer to use FaceTime (iPhone) or Google Duo (iPhone or Android) app on a minimum 4G smartphone or connected to Wi-Fi in order to interact with the City Inspector. In the event a video inspection is attempted and for technical reasons cannot be completed a traditional inspection must be scheduled.  

Video Inspection Process

  • A City Inspector will initiate a video call to the customer at the scheduled time.
  • The City Inspector will direct customer to send video images of work to be inspected.
  • Inspection results will be entered into the City’s portal system so that the customer may review the results, complete any necessary repairs or changes, and finalize the permit. 

Eligible Projects

  • Rooftop Solar
  • Furnace Replacement
  • Water Heater
  • Water Softener
  • Plumbing Re-Pipe
  • Gas Line Extension for BBQ and Fire Pits
  • A/C Change Out
  • Main Line Water Repair
  • Electrical Service Change
  • Swamp Cooler

Note: If for any reason the Inspector is not able to complete the inspection via the Residential Video Inspection Program, every effort will be made to route a field inspector to complete the inspection the same day. If this is not possible, the inspector will schedule a field inspection for the next business day.

Customer Responsibilities

  1. 4G Wireless service or better
    • Ensure inspection location and smartphone or tablet has minimum 4G connectivity or Wi-Fi connection.
  2. Google Duo or FaceTime app installed on smartphone
  3. Prepare for inspection.  Prior to scheduled inspection time, ensure all necessary tools based on type of inspection are readily available. For example; tape measure, level, GFCI tester, flashlight, stepladder, etc.
  4. Schedule the Inspection.  At least one hour prior to when the inspection is needed, call WVC Building Inspection at 801-963-3283 and provide the following information:
    • Which app (FaceTime or Duo) will be used for the video inspection
    • What time the inspection is being requested to be performed
    • The permit number for the project
    • Name of installer/contractor that will be receiving the call
    • Phone number of the installer/contractor that the inspector will call
  5. Prepare to receive the video call
    • Must be at least 18 years old or with an adult to perform the video inspection.
    • Ensure smartphone or tablet is fully charged.
    • Respond to video call from Inspector.
    • Be prepared to accept video call at scheduled time.
    • Have all required tools as necessary for inspection.
    • Turn off notifications that may interrupt the video call. This is an important step, because notifications can freeze the call and will cause delays to the inspection and a possible failed inspection.
    • Use ear buds with a microphone to improve communication (preferred).
    • Set phone so that you have the small screen view of what the inspector sees:
      • Tap the phone or device screen to access the tool bar.
      • Tap the “FLIP” or reverse camera icon.
  6. Start inspection
    • Begin inspection at street view looking at the structure
    • The address must be shown in the initial view
    • Follow the direction of the inspector.
    • Walk inspection in a clockwise direction horizontally then bottom to top vertically (if more than one floor)
    • Make notes of any corrections.
  7. Inspection results
    • Inspector will inform you if the inspection receives a pass, partial or fail.
    • The inspector will update the permitting system with the results at the completion of the Video call. 
    • An email copy of the inspection will be transmitted to the permit applicant.