1st time pulling permits in Philadelphia

[Mathew Fuentes]

Hi everyone!

I'm investing in Philadelphia Pa and I have some questions pertaining to working with building inspectors and their requirements 

Im doing my first  single family conversion to a duplex. Im exposing the brick on one wall. There was a substantial crack in the wall. In the  initial inspection, the inspector requested i have a structural Engineer come out and write a report of what needs to be done .  Got it within 2 days time . Sent it to him. Called the inspector several times over 3 weeks. Finally he answers. I do the work that is requested i do with Helcal ties as the report describes. He said call for a framing inspection when done and dont do any other work until then. I call when im done. He cancels it because i hadnt pulled the mechanical permits. Thats my fault. I wasnt aware i had to pull them all at one time.  Is there anything i should be mindfull of to have in place for framing aside from the permits ? Ex: joists , bricks, etc? Im not affraid to fail since im new at this but id like to avoid unnecessary problems if i can help it . Can anyone chime in on this pertaining to their experience in Philly? Any help is very much welcomed .

also , what is the best approach when dealing with inspectors who drag their feet ? I feel like they have you in the palm of their hands with no way to argue or theyll make your project sit .