What Is the Most Common Low Voltage Inspection Failure

Low voltage work gets flagged during inspection more often than most techs expect. The reasons are usually simple and preventable.

Top Reasons Low Voltage Work Fails Inspection

The number one issue inspectors catch is firestopping. Every cable penetration through a fire-rated wall or floor assembly needs to be sealed with an approved firestop system. Most techs know this in theory, but in practice it gets skipped when the schedule is tight or the firestop material is not on site.

The second most common failure is cable support. J-hooks, bridle rings, or other listed supports need to be installed at proper intervals. Cables laid on ceiling tiles or draped over ductwork are not supported, and inspectors will call it every time.

Other frequent flags include missing labels at both ends of a run, using the wrong cable rating for the space (CM in a plenum, for example), and exceeding conduit fill ratios.

How to Avoid the Callback

The simplest fix is a self-inspection before you call for the official one. Walk the job with the inspector's checklist in mind: firestops sealed, cables supported, labels in place, correct cable ratings, and pathways within fill limits. Five minutes of checking saves a failed inspection and a return trip.

If your jurisdiction publishes an inspection checklist, keep a copy on your phone. Many building departments post these on their websites.

The Bottom Line

Most inspection failures come down to the basics. Firestop, support, labels. Get those three right and you pass the majority of inspections on the first visit.

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