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Rough MEP → Insulation Sequence (Hold Point: Rough-In Inspection)

Updated Mar 24, 2026
Insulation and drywall cannot begin until rough mechanical, electrical, and plumbing inspections pass. All three trades must complete rough-in and be inspected before walls can be closed.

After framing inspection passes, the rough-in phase begins. This requires careful coordination: (1) Plumber installs drain/waste/vent and supply piping, (2) Electrician installs wiring, boxes, and panels, (3) HVAC installer runs ductwork and refrigerant lines, (4) Low-voltage installer runs data/comm/security cabling, (5) Fire protection installer runs sprinkler piping (if required). All trades must coordinate penetrations and routing. Once complete: rough plumbing inspection, rough electrical inspection, rough mechanical inspection (some jurisdictions combine these). Only after ALL rough inspections pass can insulation be installed. After insulation: insulation inspection (energy code compliance). Then drywall can begin.

TAGS
sequencingrough-inmepinspectioninsulationdrywallhold-point
DETAILS
activity
insulation
prerequisites
[{"type":"hard","activity":"rough_plumbing_inspection"},{"type":"hard","activity":"rough_electrical_inspection"},{"type":"hard","activity":"rough_mechanical_inspection"}]
trade conflicts
["electrical and plumbing cannot share same stud bay"]
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