I already covered hidden work before it was checked. What now?

Do not pretend it was inspected. Stop, document what got covered, identify whether it affects dampers, access, rated work, sealing, insulation, hangers, or TAB, and ask whether it needs to be reopened.

Stop covering, document what is missing, and ask whether the area must be reopened or formally documented.

Stop if

• I realized this area got covered before [access/seal/damper/support/TAB] was verified. Here is the location and what I can still see. Do you want it reopened, documented, or inspected another way?

Watch out

• Do not sign off hidden work you did not verify. Do not blame another trade before you know the sequence.

Check

• What was covered
• What verification was missed
• Whether photos exist before cover
• Who needs to decide reopen vs document

Steps

• Stop adding more cover-up work.
• Write down what was covered and where.
• Take photos of the area, gridline, room, tag, and any remaining visible details.
• Identify what verification might be missing: access, seal, damper, support, insulation, slope, or label.
• Ask before reopening, patching, or telling another trade to proceed.

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