Alternate Video Inspections program

The Alternate Video Inspections (AVI) program offers a convenient way to do residential inspections. City inspectors use informational drawings and a smart phone with video conferencing to do their work.

We offer morning (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.) and afternoon (12:30 p.m.- 4 p.m.) appointments.

Program eligibility

  • Homeowners
  • Contractors
  • Interior residential construction projects that are partially or fully occupied

Types of inspections not eligible for AVI

  • Solar photovoltaic systems
  • Electrical services
  • Permits issued post-construction

Requirements

If your project is eligible for the program, it’s important to review and understand the requirements.

How to prepare for your AVI

  1. Download and install the Google Meet or Apple FaceTime video conferencing app
    • For Google Meet, log in with a Google account
    • For FaceTime, use your Apple ID to log in
    • Test the app to make sure it’s working before your inspection
  2. Prepare AVI Plans* specific to the scope of work
    • Floor plans must include the size of rooms and basic dimensions
    • Diagram for underground plumbing installations must show all plumbing fixtures, pipe sizes, locations of backwater valves, cleanouts, and vents
    • *Not needed for air conditioner, hot water tank, and gas or electric furnace installations
  3. Complete the AVI Applicant Declaration (PDF, 58KB)
  4. Make sure you have the following tools to help with the inspection, if applicable:
    • Fully charged smart phone
    • Tape measure (25’-0” recommended)
    • Flashlight or another way to light the area being inspected
    • Receptacle polarity/GFCI tester for final inspections involving electrical installations only where a receptacle was installed
    • Torpedo level for rough-in and underground drainage plumbing installations

Extra inspections for the same project don’t need to resubmit AVI Plans or Declaration.

What to do on the day of your AVI

  • you must be available for the entire morning or afternoon
  • the inspector will call you
  • answer the incoming call using the video conferencing app and follow the inspector’s instructions
  • use Wi-Fi, if possible, to help with video connection and quality

During the AVI, the inspector may stop if:

  • they see something unsafe
  • the video quality is insufficient to complete an inspection
  • the submitted documentation is inadequate

If this happens, an on-site inspection will be needed.

Scheduling

Note: Incomplete submissions will not be accepted. Applicants will be notified and revisions must be submitted through Permits Online. A new request to schedule an AVI will need to be made.

Questions?

Email: PPD-AVI@winnipeg.ca

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