Inspection Pergola & Tonnelle

Posts must be on proper footings below frost line. Post bases should keep wood above ground contact. Minimum 6x6 posts for most pergolas.

1. Verify footings are below local frost line

2. Check post bases — should be on metal brackets that hold wood above concrete

3. Verify post size is adequate (typically 6x6 minimum)

4. Check posts are plumb on all four sides

5. Verify spacing matches plans and is consistent

6. Check for proper concrete footing size (minimum 12" diameter)

- Posts buried directly in ground (rot risk)

- Footings above frost line (heaving)

- Undersized posts

- Posts not plumb

- Inconsistent spacing

Beams must be properly sized and attached with approved hardware. Rafter connections must resist uplift from wind.

1. Check beam-to-post connections — approved metal brackets or through-bolts (not just nails)

2. Verify beam size is adequate for the span

3. Check rafter-to-beam connections — hurricane ties or notched seats

4. Verify consistent rafter spacing (typically 16-24" OC)

5. Check for lateral bracing if structure is tall

6. Inspect all hardware — should be hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel

7. If attached to house: check ledger connection (same as deck ledger requirements)

- Beams simply sitting on top of posts with nails only

- No uplift resistance at rafter connections

- Undersized beams for span

- Missing lateral bracing

- Standard steel hardware (will corrode)

- Poor ledger attachment to house

All wood should be sealed, stained, or painted. Roofed structures need proper drainage. Overall appearance should be clean and professional.

1. Check that all cut ends are sealed or treated

2. Verify consistent stain or paint application

3. For roofed structures: check that water drains properly off the roof

4. Verify gutters if applicable

5. Check ground drainage around post footings

6. Inspect overall symmetry and alignment

7. Verify any electrical (lighting) is properly installed and weatherproof

- Cut ends left unsealed (moisture entry point)

- Inconsistent finish

- Roofed structure with no drainage plan

- Water pooling at post bases

- Electrical not weatherproof rated