Alternate Video Inspections
The Alternate Video Inspections (AVI) program was developed as an alternative to in-person interior, occupied residential inspections. Through this program, the Housing Inspections Branch uses informational drawings and a smart phone with Google Meet or Apple FaceTime video conferencing to satisfy the inspection process for occupied residential inspections.
This program is open to both homeowners and contractors who are permit applicants for residential construction projects that are occupied or partially occupied. The program offers both morning (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.) and afternoon (12:30 p.m.- 4 p.m.) appointments.
Please carefully review the following requirements and scheduling information. If you wish to participate in the AVI program, all required documentation must be submitted as instructed.
Requirements and Scheduling
Anyone wishing to participate in the AVI program must prepare the following prior to scheduling an inspection:
- Review the AVI Applicant Checklist for all requirements, including required documentation and information specific to the day of inspection.
- Complete and sign the AVI Applicant Declaration.
- Prepare AVI Plans. Please note that AVI Plans are not required for air conditioner, hot water tank, and gas or electric furnace installations.
- Submit AVI Plans and AVI Declaration through Permits Online.
- Schedule an AVI.
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 must be made at that time.
Following an AVI, any subsequent AVIs for the same project (including re-inspections and final inspections) do not require resubmission of AVI Plans or the AVI Declaration. AVI housing inspections can be scheduled by completing the Housing Inspection Request Form. For general inquiries about the program, please email PPD-AVI@winnipeg.ca.
If you are unable to participate in the AVI program, extensions may be requested. To request an extension, please complete the Extension Request Form.
Please note that at any point during the AVI, the inspector may terminate the inspection if:
- they see something that is unsafe.
- the video quality is insufficient to complete an inspection.
- the submitted documentation is determined to be inadequate.
At that point, an on-site inspection will be required.
Inspections Excluded from the AVI Program
Solar photovoltaic systems inspections are not eligible for an AVI and require an on-site inspection with the permit applicant in attendance.
In addition, electrical service inspections are not eligible for an AVI and require an on-site inspection with the permit applicant in attendance. The permit applicant must arrange for Manitoba Hydro to disconnect the electrical service on both the line and load side of the meter prior to the inspector's arrival.