# Single Family Residence Construction Checklist

- Summary: Overview This document outlines the requirements for obtaining a building permit and scheduling inspections for a single-family dwelling in Altoona, PA. It applies to permanent structures but…
- Source: AltoonaPa.gov
- Published: 2023-02-02
- Captured: 2026-08-10T16:49:35.826Z
- Source URL: https://www.altoonapa.gov/getmedia/ed1a3a99-b270-436c-b0f9-3976c0e6a913/Single-Family-Dwelling-Checklist.pdf
- Content URL: https://hollidaysburg.ebensburg.site/document/single-family-residence-construction-checklist/
- Content note: This portable copy is not the official record and may include an automated convenience summary. Verify important details in the original document.

Overview This document outlines the requirements for obtaining a building permit and scheduling inspections for a single-family dwelling in Altoona, PA. It applies to permanent structures but excludes manufactured or industrial buildings. Application Requirements To submit an application, you must provide a "checkmark" for every item on the checklist. The submission requires: Site Plan: Must show outside dimensions and distances to front, side, and rear property lines. Construction Documents: Three (3) complete sets of plans showing code compliance, including: Fire Safety: Option for automatic fire sprinklers (if not installed, basement floor ceiling assembly details are required). Floor Plans: Sizes of all rooms. Foundation Details: Depth below frost line, thickness, width, rebar, masonry type, waterproofing, and anchorage. Structural Specs: Roof rafter size/spacing, sheathing thickness, ceiling joist size/spacing, floor joist size/spacing, wall sections (plates and headers), beam locations/sizes, and wall bracing details. Openings: Sizes of all doors and windows (including emergency egress dimensions for sleeping rooms). Systems: Locations of smoke/CO alarms, insulation values (U-values for windows, R-values for walls/attic/foundation), heating, plumbing, and electrical. Stairs: Riser height (max 8 1/4"), tread depth (min 9"), handrail height, guardrail details, and basement emergency escape openings. Forms: Completed building permit application. Inspection Procedures Once the permit is issued, the following rules apply: Permit Posting: The building permit must be posted on-site and visible from the road until completion. Scheduling: You must provide your permit number when scheduling. Do not schedule if the work is not ready. Notice: Give three (3) working days' advance notice for inspections. Inspection Schedule Footing Inspection: After forming, before placing concrete. (Priority given to this inspection). Foundation Inspection: French drain and waterproofing, before backfilling. Plumbing Under Slab: Rough-in, before placing concrete floor. Framing Inspection: Before insulating and exterior finishes, but after heating, plumbing, and wiring are roughed in. Energy Conservation: (Specific timing not detailed, listed as item 5). Wallboard: Only required if there is an integral or attached garage. Final Inspection: When the job is completely finished, prior to occupancy permit and after plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work. Fees and Approval Plans will be reviewed for code compliance. If requirements are not met, additional information will be requested. If requirements are met, plans will be stamped "APPROVED. " A building permit will be issued once all fees are paid. Inspection procedures must be followed to ensure all required inspections are performed.