Pre-Drywall Inspection in the Northwest Suburbs
Performed in-house by our own Illinois-licensed inspectors, from our base in Cary, IL.
The Short Answer
A pre-drywall inspection from At Ease Inspections costs $550 and happens after framing, rough electrical, plumbing and HVAC are installed but before insulation and drywall close the walls. It is the only point in the build where the structure and the systems inside the walls are visible at the same time.
Why Pre-Drywall Matters
There is a narrow window during construction when everything that will be permanently hidden is still in plain sight. Once insulation and drywall go in, evaluating framing, rough plumbing, wiring runs and duct installation means opening walls back up.
A pre-drywall inspection uses that window. It does not replace a final new construction inspection; it covers what the final one cannot see.
What Our Pre-Drywall Covers
Framing and structure
Visible framing members, connections, notching and boring, headers, bearing, and any modifications made to accommodate mechanicals.
Rough electrical
Wiring runs, boxes, protection against penetration, and support before everything is covered.
Rough plumbing
Supply and drain routing, support, venting and visible connections.
HVAC rough-in
Duct routing, support, sealing and register locations.
Moisture barriers and flashing
Window and door flashing and weather barrier details, which are a leading cause of long-term water problems once concealed.
Pre-Drywall in the Northwest Suburbs
This applies wherever new homes are going up, which in our service area means primarily Huntley, Algonquin, Lake in the Hills and the western edges of Elgin and Crystal Lake.
Timing is the hard part. The window between rough-in and insulation can be a matter of days, so it is worth telling us early in the build that you want one and staying in touch with your builder about the schedule.
Pre-Drywall Near You
We provide pre-drywall inspection throughout the Northwest suburbs. These are the markets where it comes up most, and each page covers what we look for in that town specifically.
Also serving Cary, Barrington, McHenry, Woodstock and Schaumburg, plus surrounding communities across McHenry, Kane, Lake and Cook counties. See all service areas.
Pre-Drywall Questions
When exactly should a pre-drywall inspection happen?
After framing, rough electrical, rough plumbing and HVAC rough-in are complete, but before insulation and drywall are installed. That window can be short, so let us know early and keep us posted on the builder’s schedule.
Do I still need a final inspection if I do this one?
Yes. They cover different things. Pre-drywall sees inside the walls; the final inspection evaluates the finished, operating house. Together they cover the build properly.
Will the builder let an independent inspector on site?
Most will, though some require notice or want a representative present. It is worth confirming the policy early rather than on the day.
We're Here to Put You At Ease.
Book your inspection online or reach out with any questions, proudly serving the Northwest suburbs of Chicago.