"I think most inspectors can tell the difference between a genuine work-in-progress and actual neglect or safety hazards."
That's been my experience too. When I was renovating my kitchen, I panicked about the mess before my first inspection—tools scattered, drywall dust everywhere. But the inspector barely noticed; he was way more interested in checking electrical connections and plumbing setups. Maybe inspectors appreciate seeing a bit of chaos—it shows you're really diving into the project? Anyway, definitely reassuring to know they're more focused on quality than cleanliness...
Haha, your drywall dust panic reminds me of when I redid my bathroom. I was convinced the inspector would judge me for the mountain of tile scraps and grout buckets piled in the corner. But nope—he just stepped right over it all, flashlight in hand, zeroed in on the plumbing and wiring like a detective on a mission. Honestly, I think inspectors have seen it all; a little chaos probably signals you're actually doing something productive.
"Maybe inspectors appreciate seeing a bit of chaos—it shows you're really diving into the project?"
Exactly! If everything's too neat, they might wonder if you're hiding something sketchy behind those perfectly stacked paint cans. 😂 But seriously, has anyone ever had an inspector comment negatively about clutter or mess during renovations? Curious if that's even a thing...
"Honestly, I think inspectors have seen it all; a little chaos probably signals you're actually doing something productive."
Totally agree with this. I've had inspectors step over piles of sawdust and random tools without batting an eye—they're laser-focused on code compliance, not housekeeping. The only time I've seen them comment negatively is if clutter blocks access to something they need to inspect. Has anyone ever had an inspector actually delay an inspection because they couldn't reach something important?
Yeah, inspectors usually don't care about a bit of mess as long as they can get to what they need. Had one inspection where my kitchen was a total disaster—boxes, tools, random stuff everywhere. Inspector just laughed and said he'd seen worse. But I did have a buddy whose inspection got delayed because the electrical panel was buried behind a mountain of drywall scraps...so maybe clear a path to the important stuff just in case.
Had a similar situation last year—my kitchen was mid-reno, tools and boxes everywhere. I just made sure the inspector could easily reach the stove, sink plumbing, and electrical panel. Took maybe 20 mins to clear paths and shift stuff around. Inspector didn't bat an eye at the mess, just joked about my "organized chaos." As long as they can access what they're checking, you're probably good. Just don't hide the breaker box behind drywall scraps like your buddy did...
