How to get ADU Permit in Hillsborough County

Key Takeaways

• ADU eligibility and lot size requirements vary by zoning district in Hillsborough County, with maximum ADU sizes varying by zoning district and jurisdiction

• Some properties may be eligible for variances to allow larger ADUs; consult the Land Development Code for specific variance criteria

• Under the Florida Building Code, one-story detached accessory structures used as tool/storage sheds not exceeding 120 sq ft are generally exempt from building permits; larger structures typically require permits

• Mesocore's factory-installed MEP systems are Intertek-certified before delivery, eliminating rough-in inspections on-site in many jurisdictions and accelerating construction timelines

• The integrated 6 kW solar array with two 10 kWh lithium-ion batteries enables off-grid operation in some jurisdictions, potentially eliminating utility connection fees and ongoing expenses

• Total permit costs typically range from $2,000-$4,500 depending on construction valuation, with additional utility connection fees varying by project scope

Hillsborough County's ADU regulations provide homeowners with opportunities to add secondary housing units for rental income, multigenerational living, or guest accommodations. Understanding the county's specific requirements—from lot size minimums to setback standards—is essential for successfully navigating the permitting process and avoiding costly delays.

For property owners seeking a streamlined path to ADU construction, Mesocore's Model E ADU offers a 410-square-foot modular solution engineered to meet Florida Building Code requirements with hurricane-rated construction, factory-installed utilities, and integrated solar systems. This approach simplifies Hillsborough County's permitting requirements while providing features that exceed code minimums.

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Why Build One in Hillsborough County

An Accessory Dwelling Unit is a secondary housing unit located on the same property as a primary residence. In Hillsborough County, ADUs provide independent living spaces with their own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping areas, providing homeowners with flexible housing solutions.

These secondary dwellings—also called backyard cottages, granny flats, or in-law suites—offer distinct advantages for property owners:

Financial Benefits:

• Generate supplemental rental income from existing property assets

• Increase overall property value by adding functional living space

• Maximize property utility without purchasing additional land

Multigenerational Housing Solutions:

• Provide independent living for elderly parents requiring nearby support

• Accommodate adult children or caregivers while maintaining privacy

• Support changing family needs with flexible housing arrangements

Investment Protection:

• Properly permitted ADUs demonstrate compliance with building codes

• Meet safety codes that protect homeowner investments

• Maintain property marketability for refinancing or resale

The county has established specific regulations governing ADU construction that balance housing flexibility with neighborhood character preservation. Understanding what qualifies as an ADU in Hillsborough County is the first step toward determining if your property is eligible for this valuable addition.

Hillsborough County ADU Zoning Requirements and Setback Rules

Hillsborough County's Land Development Code establishes baseline eligibility requirements that determine whether a property can accommodate an ADU. The most fundamental requirement is lot size.

Minimum Lot Size for ADUs in Hillsborough County

ADU eligibility and lot size requirements vary by zoning district in Hillsborough County. Properties must meet the minimum lot area requirements for their specific zoning designation unless otherwise expressly permitted in a Planned Development. Verify your property's eligibility by consulting the Land Development Code and zoning map for your parcel.

Some properties may be eligible for variances to allow larger ADUs; consult the Land Development Code for specific variance criteria applicable to your property.

Size Restrictions

Maximum ADU sizes vary by zoning district and jurisdiction. Some sources cite maximums of 900 square feet for certain Hillsborough County properties, while others reference 950 square feet or 750 square feet in specific areas, highlighting the importance of verifying requirements specific to your property location.

Contact Hillsborough County Development Services to confirm the maximum size permitted for ADUs on your specific property.

Setback Requirements

Setback requirements vary by zoning district; verify ADU-specific setback standards in the Land Development Code for your property. The specific distances depend on your zoning designation and ADU size, with requirements differing across districts.

For properties within city limits like Tampa, additional requirements may apply. The City of Tampa requires additional parking for ADUs, demonstrating how municipal regulations can layer onto county standards.

Understanding Hillsborough County Permit Requirements for ADUs

Most construction in Hillsborough County requires approval and permits from Building Services to ensure work meets proper safety codes. This regulatory framework protects homeowner investments while maintaining community standards.

Required Permit Documents

The permitting process requires comprehensive documentation demonstrating code compliance. Follow county guidelines to ensure applications, plans, and supporting documentation are complete when submitted for review.

Key documentation includes:

• Architectural plans drawn to scale showing site plan, floor plans, elevations, and sections

• Title report information verifying property ownership

• Survey plans establishing property boundaries and setbacks

• Engineering calculations for structural components

• Fire access documentation

Permit Fees and Impact Fees

Permit fees vary based on construction valuation and project scope. While exact costs depend on specific circumstances, typical ADU projects should budget for permit fees plus utility connection expenses.

Timeline for Permit Approval

Application completeness significantly affects processing timelines. Incomplete applications result in extended review periods, while thorough preparation with all required documentation accelerates approval.

For homeowners seeking assistance with this documentation phase, Mesocore's site plan service creates site plans for $200 that confirm feasibility and verify projects meet local Hillsborough County zoning and setback requirements. The deposit is fully refundable if you decide not to proceed with site plan creation.

How to Search Existing Permits: Hillsborough County Permit Search Guide

Before beginning your ADU project, researching existing permits on your property and neighboring properties provides valuable context about construction history and potential issues.

Using the Hillsborough County Online Permit Portal

Hillsborough County provides online access to permit databases where homeowners can search by parcel number, address, or permit number to review permit history, permit status, active permits, finaled permits, and inspection records.

This permit lookup capability helps homeowners understand what work has been previously permitted on their property and identify any outstanding permits that need resolution before proceeding with new construction.

City of Tampa vs. Unincorporated Hillsborough County

Tampa's Construction Services at 813-274-3100 provides information regarding building permitting and verification of requirements for properties within city limits. Properties in unincorporated county areas follow county permitting procedures through Hillsborough County Building Services.

Understanding which jurisdiction governs your property is essential, as city officials often establish their own ADU rules that supersede county regulations. This creates complexity for homeowners who must navigate multiple layers of jurisdiction.

Properties located within city boundaries may face additional or different requirements beyond county-level regulations, requiring verification with both county Development Services and municipal planning departments.

Step-by-Step: Applying for Your ADU Permit in Hillsborough County

The ADU permitting process in Hillsborough County involves several distinct phases, each with specific requirements that must be satisfied before proceeding to the next stage.

Phase 1: Verify Eligibility

Contact Hillsborough County Development Services to initiate the permitting process by:

• Confirming your lot size meets the requirements for your zoning district

• Verifying your property is not in a restricted zoning district

• Checking whether city-level requirements apply if you're within municipal boundaries

• Determining if variance eligibility exists for your property

Phase 2: Prepare Complete Application Package

Thorough preparation prevents delays caused by incomplete applications. Required documentation includes:

• Architectural plans showing site plan, floor plans, elevations, and sections

• Survey plans establishing property boundaries

• Title documentation proving ownership

• Engineering calculations for structural components

• Contractor licenses and insurance verification

Follow county guidelines to ensure all supporting documentation is complete when submitted for review, streamlining the approval process.

Phase 3: Submit to Building Services

Submit your application to Hillsborough County Building Services with all required documentation. The county processes approximately 26,000 permits annually, and complete applications move through review significantly faster than those requiring additional information.

Phase 4: Plan Review and Revisions

The building department reviews submissions against applicable codes and standards. Most applications receive comments requiring resubmittal after initial review. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information to minimize timeline extensions.

Phase 5: Permit Issuance

Once approved, you'll receive an invoice for permit fees. Construction cannot begin until fees are paid and the permit is issued. Keep permit documentation on-site throughout the construction process.

For homeowners building Mesocore's Model E ADU, the permitting process is simplified by factory-provided stamped drawings and structural calculations. Mesocore manages drawings, engineering, and can assist with permit submittals for Hillsborough County projects, reducing the documentation burden on homeowners.

Florida Building Code and Hurricane Standards for ADUs

Florida's coastal location subjects all new construction to stringent wind resistance requirements. Hillsborough County ADUs must comply with the Florida Building Code to ensure structures withstand severe weather conditions.

Wind Rating Requirements in Hillsborough County

While Hillsborough County is not designated as a High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ)—that designation applies only to Miami-Dade and Broward Counties per the Florida Building Code—the area still faces substantial hurricane risk requiring robust construction standards.

Design wind speeds vary by location within the county, with coastal areas closer to Tampa Bay typically requiring higher ratings than inland properties. All ADU construction must meet applicable wind load requirements based on the specific building site.

Hurricane-Resistant Construction Standards

Florida Building Code mandates specific construction elements for structures in hurricane-prone regions:

• Impact-resistant windows and doors or approved hurricane shutters

• Engineered roof systems meeting wind uplift requirements

• Proper foundation anchoring and tie-down systems

• Structural elements designed for lateral loads

These requirements ensure ADUs can withstand severe weather while protecting occupants and neighboring properties.

Required Engineering Certifications

Licensed professionals must provide sealed engineering calculations demonstrating compliance with Florida Building Code structural requirements. These certifications are mandatory components of the permit application package.

Mesocore's Model E ADU is engineered to meet or exceed Florida Building Code with a hurricane-rated steel core, 5 hurricane impact windows, and 1 full lite insulated hurricane impact door. Every ADU is engineered to meet or exceed Florida Building Code, including HVHZ standards in Miami-Dade and Broward, providing built-in compliance that can accelerate permit approval.

Utility Connections and Infrastructure for Hillsborough County ADUs

ADUs require connections to essential utilities—water, sewer, and electrical service—to function as independent living spaces. Understanding connection requirements and associated costs helps homeowners budget accurately for total project expenses.

Connecting to Municipal Water and Sewer

ADUs must connect to municipal water and sewer systems where available per Florida Statute §381.00655. The Florida Department of Health regulates onsite sewage systems when municipal sewer is unavailable. Connection applications are processed through the appropriate utility provider based on your location within Hillsborough County.

Water demand is determined from total fixture units, with all water outlets included—sinks, showers, toilets, and laundry facilities. An existing water meter may require upgrading if the combined demand from the primary residence and ADU exceeds current capacity.

Sewer connections typically tie into the existing service line before it connects to the municipal lateral. Wastewater charges are calculated based on metered water flow.

Septic System Requirements for ADUs

Properties not served by municipal sewer systems must verify existing septic system capacity can handle additional plumbing fixtures from the ADU. In most cases, septic connections are possible as long as the system is large enough to handle additional plumbing, though this is determined during feasibility review.

Electrical Service and Solar Considerations

ADUs require electrical connections either through a separate meter or shared connection to the main residence's electrical service if adequate capacity exists. Load calculations determine if existing service is adequate or if a service panel upgrade is required.

However, Mesocore's Model E ADU includes a 6-KW solar system with two 10 kWh lithium-ion batteries for energy storage. In some jurisdictions like Palm Beach County, Mesocore ADUs have been approved to operate independently from the primary house—no utility hookup or separate meter required. This off-grid capability might cut connection fees, meter costs, and ongoing utility expenses while maintaining full functionality. Verification with Hillsborough County Building Services is recommended to confirm whether this configuration is permitted locally.

All electrical work must meet Florida Building Code requirements. The Mesocore system includes all plumbing and electrical rough-in installed and tested in the factory before shipping, with all systems Intertek-certified before delivery.

Site Preparation and Foundation Requirements in Hillsborough County

Proper site preparation and foundation design are essential for ADU structural integrity and code compliance. Hillsborough County requires specific documentation and construction standards before permits are issued.

Soil and Site Testing Requirements

Soil testing establishes site conditions and informs foundation design. Geotechnical reports may be required for properties with challenging soil conditions, flood zone locations, or when engineers determine subsurface evaluation is necessary.

Site grading and drainage must direct water away from structures and comply with stormwater management requirements. Erosion control measures protect the site and neighboring properties during construction.

Foundation Types Approved for ADUs

Florida Building Code permits various foundation types including slab-on-grade, concrete pier, and raised foundation systems. The selected foundation must accommodate site conditions while providing adequate structural support and meeting wind resistance requirements.

Mesocore's Model E ADU is built on a durable concrete pier foundation with 8 piers, designed for Florida soil conditions and hurricane resistance. This foundation system is specifically engineered for the state's unique requirements.

Grading and Drainage Compliance

Site work must ensure proper drainage preventing water accumulation near structures. Grading permits may be required for significant land alteration. Stormwater management plans demonstrate compliance with county regulations protecting water quality and preventing flooding.

Land clearing, leveling, and fill operations are typically not included in ADU purchase prices and represent separate costs homeowners must budget for during site preparation. For properties in flood zones, elevation certificates may be required to verify compliance with floodplain management requirements.

Getting Your Notice of Commencement (NOC) in Hillsborough County

Florida's construction lien law requires filing a Notice of Commencement before beginning work on most construction projects, including ADUs. This legal protection mechanism safeguards both property owners and contractors.

What is a Notice of Commencement

A Notice of Commencement is a legal document filed with the Clerk of Court providing public notice that construction has begun on a property. It establishes a record of the project, identifies the owner and contractors, and defines lien rights for parties furnishing labor or materials.

How to File Your NOC in Hillsborough County

The NOC must be recorded with the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court before construction begins. The document requires:

• Property owner information and legal description

• General contractor information with license number

• Lender information if applicable

• Estimated construction value and completion date

• Owner's signature with notarization

Recording fees apply based on the number of pages filed. The original recorded NOC should be posted at the construction site where it remains visible throughout the project.

NOC Requirements Before Construction Begins

Florida law requires NOCs for construction projects exceeding $2,500 in value. Filing before work commences protects property owners from potential lien claims by establishing the proper legal framework for contractor and material supplier payments.

Failure to file an NOC doesn't prevent permit issuance, but it removes important legal protections for property owners and creates potential lien complications if payment disputes arise during construction.

ADU Inspection Process and Certificate of Occupancy

The inspection process verifies ADU construction complies with approved plans and applicable building codes. Multiple inspections occur at various construction stages, with all inspections required to pass before occupancy is permitted.

Required Inspections for Hillsborough County ADUs

Traditional site-built construction requires inspections at multiple stages:

• Foundation inspection before concrete placement

• Framing inspection after structural components are installed

• Rough plumbing inspection before walls are closed

• Rough electrical inspection before walls are closed

• Rough mechanical inspection for HVAC systems

• Insulation inspection verifying proper installation

• Final inspections for building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems

However, Mesocore's Model E ADU significantly streamlines this process. Because all MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems are factory-installed and Intertek-certified before delivery, Mesocore units eliminate the need for rough-in inspections on-site in some jurisdictions. This reduction in total inspection requirements accelerates construction timelines as a result.

Scheduling Inspections During Construction

Contact Hillsborough County Building Services to schedule required inspections. Same-day or next-day scheduling is typically available if requested 24-48 hours in advance.

Keep permit documentation on-site throughout construction. Inspectors verify work against approved plans and applicable codes. Failed inspections require corrections and re-inspection, adding time to the project timeline.

Final Inspection and Receiving Your CO

Once all final inspections pass and fees are paid, the county issues a Certificate of Occupancy. The CO represents official approval that the ADU meets all applicable codes and is safe for occupancy.

No one may occupy the ADU before CO issuance. For rental properties, the CO is required before tenant placement. The rapid installation timeline available with Mesocore's modular approach, combined with reduced inspection requirements, means a faster path to occupancy and rental income compared to traditional construction.

Costs and Fees: Budgeting for Your Hillsborough County ADU Permit

Understanding total costs beyond the ADU purchase price helps homeowners budget realistically for their projects. Permit fees represent just one component of total project expenses.

Breakdown of Hillsborough County Permit Fees

Building permit fees are calculated based on construction valuation. Under the Florida Building Code, one-story detached accessory structures used as tool/storage sheds not exceeding 120 sq ft are generally exempt from building permits; larger structures typically require permits, with fees varying by project scope.

Typical permit costs for ADU projects range from $2,000-$4,500 depending on construction value and complexity. This includes building permit fees, plan review fees, and inspection fees.

Impact Fees and When They Apply

Impact fees help fund infrastructure and public services affected by new development. These fees vary by jurisdiction and project type. Some areas assess school impact fees for residential additions, while others may have transportation or parks impact fees.

Contact Hillsborough County Development Services to determine which impact fees apply to your specific property location and ADU project.

Total Cost to Permit an ADU

Beyond permit fees, homeowners should budget for:

• Site plan creation and engineering services

• Utility connection fees for water, sewer, and electrical service

• Survey and soil testing costs

• Impact fees if applicable

• Contractor costs for site preparation and foundation installation

Mesocore's Model E ADU starts at $129k factory MSRP with approved engineered construction drawings included. However, permitting costs, land preparation (soil testing, land clearing, leveling), foundation installation (8 concrete piers), utility connections, and local labor costs represent additional expenses beyond the base unit price.

For comprehensive budgeting, homeowners should account for 15-25% above the unit cost for site work, permitting, and connections when planning total project investment.

Finding ADUs for Sale and Prefab Options in Hillsborough County

The growing demand for ADUs has expanded the marketplace for both site-built and prefabricated options. Understanding the differences helps homeowners select the approach that best fits their timeline, budget, and site conditions.

Benefits of Prefab ADUs vs. Site-Built

Prefabricated and modular ADUs offer several advantages over traditional site-built construction:

• Faster installation: Factory construction proceeds simultaneously with site preparation, reducing total project timeline

• Quality control: Factory conditions enable better quality control than variable on-site conditions

• Weather independence: Factory construction isn't delayed by weather events

• Reduced site disruption: Shorter on-site construction minimizes disruption to the primary residence

• Simplified permitting: Pre-engineered plans and structural calculations streamline approval

Neighboring Alachua County permits ADUs up to 1,700 square feet or 50% of the principal structure, demonstrating how ADU regulations vary across Florida jurisdictions. Hillsborough County's size requirements vary by district, positioning prefab units like Mesocore's 410-square-foot Model E well within many county requirements.

What to Look for When Buying an ADU

When evaluating prefab ADU options, consider:

• Florida Building Code compliance: Verify the unit is engineered for Florida's hurricane requirements

• Factory certification: Look for Intertek or similar third-party quality certifications

• Included features: Compare what's included in base price versus additional costs

• Installation support: Determine what installation services the manufacturer provides

• Local dealer network: Check whether authorized installers serve Hillsborough County

Delivery and Installation in Hillsborough County

Mesocore's modular ADU ships as a 20-foot HC ISO-certified container that can be delivered via truck, rail, or ocean cargo. The container becomes the structural steel core of the finished ADU, providing the hurricane-rated foundation for the complete unit.

The unit is designed to comply with the Florida Building Code (FBC) and International Building Code (IBC) and is listed under the Florida DBPR Modular Program, providing built-in code compliance. Installation in as little as 3 weeks is possible once foundation preparation is complete, dramatically accelerating the timeline compared to traditional 4-6 month site-built construction schedules.

This rapid installation combined with factory-certified MEP systems means Hillsborough County homeowners can move from permit approval to rental income or family occupancy in weeks rather than months.

Why Mesocore ADUs Simplify Hillsborough County Permitting

Navigating Hillsborough County's ADU permitting process requires careful attention to zoning requirements, building codes, and documentation standards. Mesocore's Model E ADU addresses many of the most challenging aspects of this process with turnkey solutions specifically engineered for Florida conditions.

Factory-Certified Systems Eliminate Rough-In Inspections

All Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems in Mesocore ADUs are factory-installed and Intertek-certified before delivery. This third-party quality certification eliminates rough-in inspections for plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems on-site in many jurisdictions, reducing total inspection requirements and accelerating construction timelines.

The exterior mechanical room provides centralized access to all plumbing, electrical, and solar equipment—pre-tested before delivery—simplifying connections to Hillsborough County's municipal systems and making separate meter installation straightforward.

Hurricane Resistance Exceeding Code Requirements

Hillsborough County requires structures to withstand design wind speeds of 130-150 mph depending on coastal proximity. Mesocore's hurricane-rated steel core construction, 5 hurricane impact windows, and full lite insulated hurricane impact door meet or exceed these standards. The robotically welded steel core provides exceptional structural strength, while the concrete pier foundation (8 piers) is specifically designed for Florida soil conditions and hurricane resistance.

Off-Grid Solar Capability Reduces Utility Costs

Each Mesocore unit includes a 6-KW solar system with 14 roof-mounted PV panels and two 10 kWh lithium-ion batteries for energy storage. This integrated system provides several advantages for Hillsborough County homeowners:

• Potential off-grid operation: In jurisdictions like Palm Beach County, Mesocore ADUs have been approved to operate independently without connecting to the primary house or requiring separate meters

• Eliminated connection fees: Off-grid capability might cut utility connection fees, meter installation costs, and ongoing hookup expenses

• Zero utility bills: Solar and battery storage can eliminate electric bills, making rental units more profitable

• Integrated rainwater collection: The 1,700-gallon rain collection cistern built into the steel frame structure provides additional utility independence

Simplified Permitting Documentation

Mesocore provides stamped drawings, structural calculations, and approved engineered construction drawings as part of the base package. This documentation streamlines the permit application process in Hillsborough County by eliminating the need for homeowners to coordinate separate architectural and engineering services.

The site plan service creates customized plans confirming feasibility and verifying projects meet local zoning and setback requirements for $200 (fully refundable if you decide not to proceed).

Rapid Installation Accelerates Income

Traditional site-built ADU construction requires 4-6 months from groundbreaking to occupancy. Mesocore's modular approach compresses on-site construction to as little as 3 weeks. The unit arrives with:

• All plumbing installed and tested in the factory

• All electrical wiring installed and tested in the factory

• Solar system integrated and operational

• Interior finishes completed including luxury vinyl plank flooring and shiplap walls

• Appliances installed including induction cooktop, microwave/convection oven, refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, and combo washer/dryer

This accelerated timeline means faster path to rental income or family occupancy compared to conventional construction methods.

Financing Options Through HFS Financial

HFS Financial provides personal loans of $1,000-$300,000 with no home equity or appraisal required. The program offers 100% upfront contractor funding, fixed rates from 7.99%, and terms up to 20 years for loans over $15K. Specializing in home improvement and ADU financing with instant pre-qualification, HFS Financial simplifies funding for Hillsborough County ADU projects.

For homeowners seeking ADU financing options, this specialized lending addresses the unique requirements of accessory dwelling unit construction without the complexity of traditional construction loans or home equity requirements.

Conclusion

Successfully obtaining an ADU permit in Hillsborough County requires understanding jurisdiction-specific zoning requirements, building code compliance, and permitting procedures. Key steps include verifying lot size eligibility and maximum size limits for your zoning district, preparing comprehensive documentation including stamped drawings and engineering calculations, coordinating utility connections per state statutes, and scheduling required inspections throughout construction.

For homeowners seeking to streamline this complex process, Mesocore's Model E ADU offers factory-certified systems that reduce on-site inspection requirements, pre-engineered compliance with Florida Building Code hurricane standards, and rapid installation timelines that accelerate the path from permit approval to occupancy. With integrated solar capability, hurricane-rated construction, and comprehensive support from site planning through installation, Mesocore simplifies Hillsborough County ADU permitting while delivering a turnkey housing solution designed specifically for Florida's unique requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ADUs allowed on every property in Hillsborough County?

No. Eligibility depends on your zoning district, minimum lot size, and whether you’re in a city (like Tampa) or unincorporated county. Always verify your parcel’s zoning, ADU allowances, and any HOA rules before you spend on plans.

What size ADU can I build and what setbacks apply?

Maximum ADU size and setbacks vary by zoning district and jurisdiction, and some parcels may qualify for a variance. Because limits cited online differ by area, confirm the exact square-foot cap and setback distances for your specific parcel with the Land Development Code or Development Services.

Do I need a building permit, and are any small structures exempt?

Most ADUs require full building permits with sealed plans and engineering. Only one-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds up to 120 sq ft are generally permit-exempt under the Florida Building Code, but those are not habitable ADUs and can’t substitute for a dwelling unit.

What documents and timeline should I expect for permitting?

Plan on a complete package: site plan, survey, architectural drawings, structural calculations, and fire/access notes, plus contractor license and insurance if applicable. Thorough, complete submittals move faster; expect plan review, comments, and at least one resubmittal before issuance.

How much do permits cost and what other fees should I budget for?

Typical permit costs range from $2,000–4,500 depending on construction valuation, with added plan review and inspection fees. Also budget for utility connections (often several thousand dollars), and any impact fees that may apply to your site and project.

How do inspections work, and can modular ADUs reduce them?

Traditional builds require multiple inspections—foundation, framing, rough MEPs, insulation, and finals—before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued. Factory-built options with Intertek-certified, pre-installed MEP systems may eliminate some rough-in inspections in many jurisdictions, which can shorten on-site timelines.