Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanical Work

Below are a few questions about mechanical that are commonly asked by our customers.  We hope you find the answers that will help you with your construction project.  If you still have questions, please call us at (509) 625-6300.


Table of Contents

  1. What is a "Listed" product?
  2. Can I install or have installed equipment that is not "Listed"?
  3. If I rent and cannot get my landlord to repair mechanical problems, what can I do?
  4. How do I know if I am hiring a qualified, licensed mechanical contractor?
  5. Will the City help me design my mechanical system?
  6. Will the City recommend a mechanical contractor?
  7. How do I find a mechanical contractor?
  8. Can I get a safety inspection for my mechanical system in my home?
  9. As a homeowner, do I have to follow the same rules as a contractor?
  10. If I install my own gas or oil-fired equipment, are there any other requirements I need to know?
  11. Are exhaust fans allowed to be vented directly into the attic?

What is a "Listed" product?

A “Listed” product is one which has been approved by a National Recognized Testing Laboratory and the State of Washington.

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Can I install or have installed equipment that is not "Listed"?

No.  Products or equipment that are not “Listed” are prohibited by the State of Washington, International Mechanical Code, WAC, OSHA, WISHA, FIRE and IRC Mechanical code section.

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If I rent and cannot get my landlord to repair mechanical problems, what can I do?

Contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Line Information Service at 1-800-692-5082 or Dispute Resolution Center of Spokane at 1-509-326-8029.

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How do I know if I am hiring a qualified, licensed mechanical contractor?

  1. Ask to see their current license.
  2. Check their status with Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, www.lni.gov.
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Will the City help me design my mechanical system?

No.  Inspectors and City personnel do not design mechanical systems.  We will answer direct questions.
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Will the City recommend a mechanical contractor?

No. Inspectors or City personnel cannot recommend a contractor.

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How do I find a mechanical contractor?

We recommend contacting at least 3 contractors from the phone book or resources and get estimates from all 3. Be sure to ask for their mechanical license.

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Can I get a safety inspection for my mechanical system in my home?

Yes. You can purchase a “Safety Inspection” permit from the City.  Inspectors will inspect for installation to code requirements but cannot test for leaks or proper operation.

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As a homeowner, do I have to follow the same rules as a contractor?

Yes. Anyone doing mechanical work is required to perform all work according to all National, State and City Codes and to purchase a mechanical permit before any work is started.

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If I install my own gas or oil-fired equipment, are there any other requirements I need to know?

Yes.  After installing equipment, you must have a licensed mechanical contractor fire the equipment.  You will need to provide the Inspector with the Gas License for gas or propane and the Oil License for oil equipment.

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Are exhaust fans allowed to be vented directly into the attic?

No.  The WSEC requires all vents to terminate directly to the exterior with an approved termination fitting. Any vent ducting exposed to the air in the attic will require to be insulated to minimum R8.

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Building Department Mechanical Inspector.
Copyright © 2008  City of Spokane. All rights reserved.
Revised: 04/21/08.