The inspection and test plan (ITP)
A table approved before the activity starts, defining each inspection stage, its specification reference, the acceptance criterion and who attends: contractor, consultant or owner. It sets the type of each point:
- Hold point: work does not continue until the consultant attends and approves.
- Witness point: the consultant is notified, and work continues if they do not attend on time.
- Review: review of documents or test results without attendance.
The inspection request
Submitted by the contractor before the agreed time, stating the location, element, drawing reference and stage, and answered with acceptance or comments.
The inspection and acceptance form
A checklist verified on site, with for each item:
- The acceptance criterion and tolerance, such as straightness, level and thickness.
- The specification or code reference.
- The result: compliant, non-compliant or not applicable.
- Comments and inspection photos where needed.
- Dated signatures of the contractor and the consultant.
Common mistakes
- Generic forms without acceptance criteria, so acceptance becomes opinion rather than measurement.
- Proceeding past a hold point without approval.
- Inspection forms disconnected from drawing numbers and revisions.
Ready forms
We prepared a pack of 123 QC forms in editable Word across architectural, civil, structural, MEP, roads, general works and management, each with acceptance criteria, tolerances, signature boxes and code references by discipline, for 499 SAR.
See also method statements.
Frequently asked questions
What is an inspection and test plan (ITP)?
A table approved before the activity starts, defining inspection stages, references, acceptance criteria and who attends, and the type of each point: hold, witness or review.
What is the difference between a hold point and a witness point?
Work does not continue past a hold point until the consultant attends and approves; at a witness point the consultant is notified and work continues if they do not attend on time.
What should an acceptance form contain?
Inspection items, the acceptance criterion and tolerance for each, the reference, the result, comments, and dated signatures of the contractor and consultant.
