Before the Inspection

  1. Review the Permit & SWPPP
    1. Make sure you understand the project’s Construction General Permit (CGP) requirements.
    1. Review the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) ahead of time so you know what BMPs (Best Management Practices) should be in place.
  2. Check Recent Rainfall & Forecasts
    1. Stormwater controls are often stressed right after rain. Knowing rainfall totals helps prioritize inspections.
  3. Bring the Right Tools
    1. Clipboard/tablet, camera (with date stamp), measuring tape, PPE, turbidity test kits (if required), and checklists for consistency.

During the Inspection

  • Start at the Site Entrance
    • Look for track-out controls (stabilized construction entrance, street sweeping). Excessive sediment leaving the site is one of the most common violations.
  • Follow the Flow of Water
    • Walk the site as water would flow—from high ground to discharge points. This helps identify missing or failing BMPs.
  • Focus on Critical BMPs
    • Perimeter controls: silt fence, wattles, berms.
    • Inlet protection: storm drains and curb inlets.
    • Sediment basins/traps: sized and maintained properly.
    • Erosion controls: seeding, mulching, matting on disturbed slopes.
  • Check Material & Waste Management
    • Inspect concrete washout areas, fuel/chemical storage, trash containment, and staging areas. These are frequent problem spots.
  • Look for Evidence of Discharge
    • Sediment leaving the site, turbid water at outfalls, or stained downstream areas can be signs of non-compliance.
  • Document Everything Clearly
    • Take wide-angle photos (to show context) and close-ups (to show details).
    • Use consistent language in notes—this helps if enforcement becomes necessary.

After the Inspection

  1. Provide Clear, Constructive Feedback
  • Point out good practices as well as deficiencies.
  • Be specific in citations—reference the permit section or SWPPP requirement.
  • Set Realistic Timelines for Corrections
  • Some fixes (e.g., re-seeding) may require more time, but others (repairing silt fence, sweeping track-out) should be immediate.
  • Follow Up Consistently
  • Reinspect to ensure corrections were made. Document both the problem and the resolution.

Pro-Level Tips

  • Stay Consistent: Use the same checklist for every inspection to avoid missing details.
  • Build Relationships: A cooperative approach with site superintendents usually results in better compliance than a confrontational one.
  • Know Enforcement Tools: Be clear on when to escalate—verbal warnings, written notices, fines, or stop-work orders.
  • Keep Learning: Regulations, BMPs, and construction methods evolve—continuing education makes you more effective.

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