Virtual Inspections

Overview

The remote inspection program, powered by VuSpex, allows developers and contractors to complete minor residential inspections or re-inspections virtually. Contractors can complete the virtual inspection on any device, anywhere — even on job sites with a limited phone connection, saving you time and streamlining the inspection process.

No downloads are required. VuSpex is accessible directly through your phone's web browser and built-in GPS.

Web Browser Instructions

English

To set up a virtual inspection, schedule an appointment with a City of Waco inspector using EnerGov, the Citizen Self Service Portal. On your inspection request, please select "RVI" for "Remote Video Inspection" and leave a contact name, phone number, and a brief description of the requested inspection. An inspector will contact you to confirm the appointment.

Getting Ready for Your Appointment

Prior to the appointment, make sure you are prepared for the inspection.

  • Verify that you have a strong internet signal on your iPhone or Android phone.
  • Allow enough time to properly perform the inspection.
  • Ensure you have the necessary tools like a flashlight, tape measure, electrical outlet tester, level, or step ladder.
  • Make sure your device is fully charged.
  • Turn off your device's notifications during the video call to avoid interruptions.

Starting Your Inspection

Near your scheduled appointment time, the inspector will send the invitation as a text message to your phone. When you're ready, tap the link in the message to begin.

VuSpex can only access the information that you give permission to share, so when you're prompted, tap "Allow" or "Enable" permissions for the camera, microphone, and location. These permissions allow the inspector to see the inspection site, communicate with you, and verify you are at the correct location.

These permissions are temporary and are limited to the video call in your web browser. When the video inspection ends, the permissions end, and we will no longer have access to your camera, microphone, or location.

Once you're connected, you will be able to speak directly with the City of Waco inspector. The inspector will be able to see the same live stream of the video that you see on your phone. The inspector will guide you to capture the video and photos needed for the inspection.

On-Screen Features

Both you and the inspector also have a few on-screen features to help during the video inspection.

The chat option allows you to message your inspector during the call. This is a useful option if your microphone is not working, you're in a loud environment, or your internet connection is limited. The chat also has a built-in translation feature to help non-English speaking users.

If you have poor reception at your inspection site and your video or audio is not working, remember you can use the chat feature to communicate with your inspector. They will provide you with further instructions, such as taking a picture, moving closer, or turning on your flashlight.

Other features include "mute" to toggle your audio on and off, "screenshot" to take pictures, "camera" to toggle between the back and front camera, "flashlight" to toggle your phone's light on and off, and the "pencil" to markup your screen.

After Your Inspection

After the inspector has captured the video or photos they need for your inspection, you can tap the red "end call" icon to end your virtual inspection. Once your inspection is completed, please use EnerGov, the City of Waco's online permit portal, to receive updates and next steps regarding your project.

Based on the complexity of the project it may not be possible to complete the inspection virtually. In that case, the inspector will inspect what is possible and make every effort to route a field inspector to complete the inspection the same day. If that is not possible, the inspector will schedule the field inspection for the following business day.

Spanish

VuSpex Go App Instructions

English

Virtual inspections through the VuSpex App make it easy for permit applicants, homeowners, and contractors to complete virtual inspections even if you don't have an internet connection at your job site. Remember, downloading an app is not necessary if you have an internet connection at your job site.

Getting Started

To perform an offline inspection with photos and videos, download the VuSpex Go app from the App Store or Google Play. Once you have downloaded the app to your phone, open the app to begin the login process.

Start by tapping "Create an account." To create your account, enter your first and last name, enter your email address and phone number, and create your password. Your password must include eight to 12 characters and include one uppercase, one lowercase, and one special character.

Now that your account is created, you will receive a text message with a six-digit verification code to verify your account information. Once your account has been verified, select Texas as your state and City of Waco for the agency. Select "Next" to finalize your account.

Now that your account is ready, you can sign in into VuSpex. When you sign in, make sure to allow access to your location while using the app. The location is required to complete virtual inspections. If your location is not allowed, the City of Waco will not be able to schedule an inspection.

Starting Your Virtual Inspection

To get started with your inspection, tap "New Field Report (Offline Inspection)." You will need to enter a name for your field report.

On the following page, you can start to add pictures of your project. All the pictures will be assigned under the name of the field report that you entered. Once you have all the required pictures, you can continue to the next step. Enter a description of your field report and tap "Next Step."

Your agency will be City of Waco. Then enter your permit number and search for your permit by tapping the magnifying glass. This will connect your field report to the correct permit. If your project site has limited internet connectivity, you may need to continue this step when you have a better connection. After selecting your permit number, select the type of inspection you want to perform from the menu.

Tap "Next Step," and on the following page, confirm your information before saving and finalizing your inspection. Your inspection will automatically be scheduled in the City of Waco's online permit portal for the next business day.

After you submit your inspection information, you can no longer make changes to the field report. When you're ready, tap the red box to send the inspection to the inspector. You have the option to send the information to the inspector now, or you can send the information later if you are in area with poor internet connection.

After Your Inspection

Once your inspection is completed, please use EnerGov, the City of Waco's online permit portal, to receive updates and next steps regarding your project.

Spanish