Rough-In
Also known as: Rough-In Stage, Rough Plumbing/Electrical
The construction phase where the basic framework of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems is installed inside the walls before drywall goes up. This is when the pre-drywall inspection should happen.
Detailed Explanation
Rough-in refers to the installation of mechanical systems (plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, HVAC ductwork) before the walls are closed up with drywall. The systems are not yet functional — faucets, outlets, and vents are not yet installed — but the infrastructure is in place.
Each system has its own rough-in inspection by the local building department: rough plumbing, rough electrical, and rough HVAC. These inspections must pass before the builder can proceed to drywall.
The rough-in stage is the ideal time for a pre-drywall inspection because all the home's hidden systems are still visible and accessible.
In Your Contract
Rough-in is a construction phase, not typically referenced in your purchase agreement. However, it is the trigger point for scheduling a pre-drywall inspection.
Key Points
- 1Installation of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC infrastructure before drywall.
- 2Must pass building department inspection before drywall proceeds.
- 3The ideal time for your pre-drywall inspection.
- 4Systems installed during rough-in will be hidden behind walls.
- 5Issues found now are much cheaper to fix than after drywall.
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