Had a similar experience when we renovated our historic place. The kitchen looked like a bomb went off—dust everywhere, half-installed cabinets—but we made sure the wiring and plumbing were clearly exposed and labeled. Inspector barely glanced at the mess, just checked functionality thoroughly. Seems like clarity and accessibility trump neatness, at least in my case...though tidying up a bit probably wouldn't hurt either.
Had a similar thing happen last year—our kitchen was chaos, tools everywhere, drywall dust coating everything. We just made sure the important stuff (wiring, plumbing) was easy to see and labeled clearly. Inspector didn't seem bothered by the mess at all, just checked off his list and moved on. So yeah, neatness is nice but clarity matters more...though maybe sweep up a little so he doesn't trip over your toolbox.
"Inspector didn't seem bothered by the mess at all, just checked off his list and moved on."
Pretty much my experience too. Inspectors usually care more about accessibility and visibility of key areas rather than how tidy your workspace is. But I'd still suggest quickly clearing a path to critical spots—especially electrical panels, plumbing connections, and gas lines. A quick sweep-up never hurts either; drywall dust can hide important details or markings you might need to point out. Plus, no one wants an inspector slipping on your scattered drill bits...speaking from experience here.
Yeah, inspectors aren't usually there to judge your housekeeping skills. Had mine come through when my kitchen was mid-reno chaos—tools everywhere, half-installed cabinets, the works. He barely blinked at the mess. Just made sure he could reach the electrical outlets and plumbing under the sink, scribbled a few notes, and moved on.
Still, I second clearing paths to critical spots. It only takes a minute, and it saves you from awkwardly moving stuff around while they're standing there waiting. Learned that lesson after fumbling around for five minutes trying to uncover the gas shut-off valve hidden behind a pile of tile boxes... embarrassing.
Anyway, don't stress too much about appearances. Inspectors have seen it all and then some. You're probably doing just fine.
Had a similar experience last year—inspector showed up when we were halfway through tearing out the old flooring. Kitchen looked like a bomb went off, plywood everywhere, tools scattered, and my dog trying to "help" by stealing random screws. Honestly thought he'd say something, but nope. He just stepped over stuff, checked the plumbing, and tested a couple outlets. Barely raised an eyebrow.
That said, totally agree about clearing access to important spots. Learned the hard way when he asked about the breaker box and I realized it was blocked behind a stack of drywall sheets. Took me forever to shift them aside while he stood there patiently watching... awkward as hell.
Bottom line, don't sweat the mess itself—inspectors really don't care. Just make sure they can actually get to what they need to see without tripping over your junk.
