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H 266

An Act minimizing trauma to children and families

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Joan Meschino

Allows limited live virtual re-inspections to reduce delays and requires timely inspections with refunds if delays occur.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4599
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Bill Summary · H 266

Summary — H 266: Idaho Building Code Act (Live Virtual Re‑inspections; Inspection Timeliness & Refunds)

Status: Reported Signed by Governor March 31, 2025 — Session Law Chapter 221. Effective: July 1, 2025 (emergency declared). Introduced: February 18, 2025.

Purpose

Modernize and expedite Idaho’s building inspection process by:
- Authorizing limited use of live virtual re‑inspections to reduce delays and administrative burdens; and
- Establishing timeliness standards, a permit‑holder right to obtain third‑party inspections when inspections are delayed, and limited fee‑refund rules to promote accountability.

Key provisions (new Idaho Code sections)

  • Section 39-4117 — Live virtual re‑inspections

    • Authorizes the division and local governments, at their discretion, to perform live virtual re‑inspections (real‑time visual/electronic aids) following an earlier in‑person inspection.
    • Requires verification of the physical address or location during each virtual re‑inspection.
    • Prohibits use of live virtual re‑inspections for structural inspections on buildings three (3) stories or greater.
    • Defines “live virtual inspection” and “live virtual re‑inspection.”

  • Section 39-4118 — Inspections, timeliness, and refunds

    • If a requested inspection is not performed within forty‑eight (48) business hours, the permit holder is authorized to obtain a third‑party inspection. The permit holder or third‑party inspector must notify the division or local government and provide the results; the permit holder is entitled to a refund of any fee (or portion) previously paid for that inspection.
    • If an inspector or building code administrator conducts an inspection, declares the work failed, but does not provide the permit holder a reason for failure within three (3) business days, the division or local government must refund 10% of the inspection fee (or portion).
    • Third‑party inspectors must meet the qualifications in section 39‑4108 and perform inspections in substantial accord with applicable jurisdictional standards. Where a local government contracts and pays the division, county, or third party, that contracting entity is responsible for issuing refunds when required.

Who is affected

  • Permit holders (homeowners, builders, contractors) — gain ability to request/use third‑party inspections after delays and potential partial fee refunds.
  • State Division of Building Safety and local governments — may adopt virtual re‑inspection options, face new timeliness and refund obligations, and incur training/tech costs.
  • Third‑party inspectors — must meet specified qualifications and adhere to local standards.
  • Fee/revenue flows — inspection fee refunds may create periodic financial liabilities for state/local agencies.

Fiscal and procedural notes

  • Fiscal note: Anticipated operational efficiencies from virtual inspections may lower costs long term; initial training and technology adoption costs are likely. Refund and reimbursement provisions could impose moderate liabilities if delays or administrative errors are frequent. Changes expected to be funded from existing permit/inspection fee collections; no new state appropriation required.
  • Legislative actions: Passed both chambers (floor votes noted), enrolled, transmitted to governor, signed March 31, 2025. Effective date: July 1, 2025.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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