As of October 20, 2025, the City of Tampa’s Development and Growth Management team is utilizing VuSpex, a virtual building inspections tool that provides inspection services to contractors and homeowners remotely, with the use of a smart phone or device.
How does it work?
There are two methods of using VuSpex, depending on the permit type:
Offline Field Reports: Contractors or homeowners will use the VuSpex app to submit specific photos, notes and documents for review by the inspector. Note: These are currently applicable for Roof Trade Permits only. Please see Important Documents below for checklists of required documentation.
Real-time Virtual Inspections: The inspection is scheduled at a specific date and time using the VuSpex app, and the City inspector initiates the inspection with a texted link. The inspector attends remotely via video call with a representative on site (the contractor or homeowner). Note: These are applicable for all Trade Permits except roof covering replacements.
Both methods will auto-generate the inspection and results in the current Accela permitting system, removing the need for scheduling through Accela.
| How it works | Scheduling | Best for… | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Offline Field Reports | Contractors or homeowners follow a guide sheet to submit photos, notes and documents for review by a City of Tampa inspector. The representative on site completes the documentation before they leave the job site and without inconvenience to the home or business owner. | No scheduling required; when a representative on site submits the documentation, it automatically schedules an inspector to review it the next day. | Contractors who complete inspections frequently and are familiar with the process. |
| Real-time Virtual Inspections | Contractors or homeowners schedule the inspection via the VuSpex app. On the scheduled date and time, a City inspector texts the representative on site a video link to initiate the inspection. | Scheduling required: Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. – Schedule in the VuSpex app. | Contractors and homeowners who prefer a guaranteed time slot convenient with their schedule. |
How to get Started
To schedule a virtual inspection, download the VuSpex GO app on your Apple or Android device or visit the VuSpex Contractor Portal website.
View the VuSpex User Guides for step-by-step instructions for using the app and scheduling inspections.
Tips for a Successful Virtual Inspection
- Ensure your mobile device’s GPS Location Services in Settings are on before the inspection begins (click here for assistance). You must accept the prompts requesting permission to use the camera and access to your location.
- Your smart phone should have good connectivity when uploading your inspection report.
- Ensure proper lighting for the best results.
Important Documents
FAQ’s:
No, not for a real-time virtual inspection. A link will be sent to the contractor or homeowner on site. For the Offline Field Report, the app is required to submit documentation.
Virtual inspections are available to contractors and homeowners.
Trade Permits, also known as BTR. This includes specific Building, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Roof Inspections. See the full list of inspections allowed under Virtual Inspections.
Yes, you can schedule an inspection from your desktop, but you will need a smart phone, laptop or tablet with a camera for the inspection.
If you have questions or need help with the process, email CSDInspections@Tampagov.net or call 813-274-3100 (option 1)