Virtual Inspection Program

The purpose of the City of Schertz Virtual Inspection Program is to provide an alternative for eligible residential and commercial inspections, including limited re-inspections. The program requires the customer to have a phone or tablet with video and internet capabilities in order to interact with the City Inspector.

Eligible Residential Permitted Projects:

• Water Heater (electric only)
• Water Softener
• Plumbing tunnel
• A/C Change Out
• Foundation Repair
• Main water or sewer yard-line repair
• Electrical service change or repair
• Temporary Electrical Meter Loop
• Exterior Electrical Installations
• Reroof (felt and final)

Note: If for any reason the Inspector is not able to complete the inspection via the Virtual Inspection Program, the inspector will schedule a field inspection for the next business day.

The virtual inspection process shall include:

• Request your virtual inspection in the City of Schertz Web Portal. On the inspection request page, please include an email address, phone number and select the option for the virtual inspection. Virtual Inspections must be requested and received by no later than 6:00 am for a same day inspection.  
• On the day of the inspection, an Inspector will contact you the morning of the inspection to confirm the inspection type and schedule a time for the inspection to be performed. Virtual Inspections are completed between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm.
• A text will go out to the requestor with a link for the virtual inspection.
• During the inspection, the Inspector will direct the requestor to show specific items throughout the inspection. The inspection will be recorded and screenshot photos will be taken.
• Inspection results be entered and a report will be emailed to the requestor.

Minimum requirements:

1. Wireless service:  Requires the use of a smartphone or tablet with wireless service.  The device used must have good connectivity from the location of the inspection and is compatible with the video conferencing solution Zoom.
2. Smartphone:   IPhone or Android, with camera, for Video/FaceTime call.
3. Prepare for inspection: Prior to scheduled inspection time, ensure all necessary tools based on type of inspection are readily available. (For example; tape measure, GFCI tester, flashlight, ladder, 2-foot level, torpedo level, water PSI gauge, pitch gauge for roofing, etc.)

Request your inspection

How to prepare for the Video inspection call:

• Must be at least 18 years old or with an adult to perform the video inspection.
• Ensure smart phone or tablet is fully charged, has wireless internet access and has a working camera.
• Please have all necessary tools available to perform the inspections.
• Turn off phone notifications that may interrupt the Video Inspection. This is an important step, because notifications can freeze the program being used and will cause delays during the inspection.
• The use of ear buds with a microphone, is recommended, to improve communication.

 This will start the inspection.

At the start of the inspection, please be prepared to show the inspector the following:

• The property and structure from the street.
• The address of the property must be shown in the initial view which is generally located on the structure or curb.
• Your State of Texas trade license, if eligible. (Plumbers, Electricians, Mechanical, and Irrigation contractors.
• The Inspector will make notes of any corrections and inform you if the inspection passed or failed and an email will be sent the day of the inspection with inspection report.

Construction Hours

Outdoor construction hours in are as follows:

• Monday - Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday  -  Outdoor work is prohibited

According to Ordinance 13-H-51, Section 54-14 (8): Commercial contractors are prohibited from the erection (including  excavation), demolition, alteration or repair work on any building or structure other than between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Commercial contractors are prohibited from outdoor work involving erection (including excavation),  demolition, alteration or repair work on unoccupied structures on Sundays. An exception can be made in case of urgent necessity in the interest of public safety and convenience, and then only by written permit from the city manager or his/her designee, which permit may be renewed by the city manager or his/her designee, during the time the emergency exists. All special requests must be submitted in writing. For more information on special requests please email asumner@schertz.com.

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