Smoke Detectors
Missing, inoperable or improperly located
- Smoke detectors are required on each level of the home, including the basement, and outside each sleeping area.
- They are not allowed in kitchens, garages or other spaces where the temperature can fall below 32°F or exceed 100°F.
- Battery operated smoke detectors are permitted.
- In basements they should be located near the stairway leading to the floor above.
- Please see diagram for the correct location (per MN State Statue 229.F.362 Policy #INS 1999-14).
Electrical System
Extension cords - they are not allowed in lieu of permanent wiring. Installing an outlet requires an electrical permit.
Open Junction box
Missing Knock Outs
Uncapped wiring
Missing or broken switch or outlet cover plates
Heating System
Certification required - You will need to contact a licensed contractor to test the heating system. The furnace may show signs of leakage or cracks in the combustion chamber. The contractor is required to obtain a permit if there is a new furnace installation.
Improper venting
Clearance to combustibles - A one inch air gap is required between vents and studs. Use either copper pipe or electrical conduit to separate the stud and sheet metal across the studs.
Water Heater
Missing or inoperable temperature and pressure relief valve
Undersized or improper height of relief drain piping - relief valve piping is required to extend not less than 6 and not more than 18 inches from the floor. No permit required.
Improper venting - Vents must be continuously vent upward.
Back spillage at draft hood - A licensed contractor must test the water heater and verify that it is no longer back drafting. The contractor is required to obtain a permit if there is a new water heater installation.
Plumbing System
Open drain (missing trap)
Leaky toilet
Open sewer line (broken or missing cover)
Missing floor drain cleanout plug
Missing backflow preventer / anti-siphon device - Required on lawn irrigation systems and boilers
Gas Lines
Uncapped gas line - to cap a gas line you do not need a permit. To install gas piping requires a permit.
Flexible gas line to appliance -are not allowed unless they are AGA approved. There will be an AGA tag on it.
Contact Information
Electrical Permits - Doug Torvund, State Electrical Inspector at 612-866-5895, 7:00 - 8:30 am, Monday - Friday.
Building, Mechanical, and Plumbing Permits - City of Hopkins Inspections Division at 952-548-6320, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday - Friday.
Evaluation Report Ratings - Evaluator listed on the report.
Permit Requirements - City of Hopkins Inspections Division at 952-548-6320, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday - Friday.
All other questions or complaints should be directed to the Program Administrator at 952-548-6323.