Every home buyer or owner has to worry about permits. Not only are you forking over some pretty hefty fees, but you also have to deal with the stress that comes from navigating a bureaucracy. Some things can make this process a little bit easier.
Below is a list of things you need to know on home permitting.
Applying for Building Permit
The first step is to contact your local jurisdiction. Any construction, demolition, or alteration outside the boundary line is subject to the city's building code regulations and requires a permit. An individual or contractor must obtain a permit from their local government to perform work on a home's exterior. It is essential to determine what permits are needed for your project. It would be best to determine whether you need an inspection before submitting your application. You will need plans that show site mapping and house diagrams with dimensions in most cases. Make sure that they align with your jurisdiction's codes.
How to Get Home Permitting
You will need to complete an application with all the necessary details. This includes your name, contact information, the signature of the owner or contractor, or both. If you are working alone, have a list of subcontractors working with you on the project. Finally, attach a copy of all plans and contractor's licenses with your application.
Get Your Exterior Permit
Once the applicable authority receives your application for building permit processing, it will be reviewed for completeness and construction type. Before approving your request, they will assess your financial capability to pay for the home permitting process. They will also look at your plans and ensure that they correctly align with the local building code.
Permits to Build: How Long Does It Take?
City building codes vary, as do schedules for permitting processes and timelines for application submission. Some jurisdictions may be faster than others. If you want to find out how long it will take to get a permit, you can always ask the relevant unit of your local building code enforcement office.
Working with a Home Permitting Company
When you are working on an exterior home project, you will have to secure home permitting services from an authorized contractor or engineer for that purpose. It is recommended that only professionals do this job because of the liability involved. However, there are certain things that you can check and verify first before hiring someone for the work. The most common is to see if the contractor has a valid license. You can check their license with the city's local building department.
If you take on a project that requires permits, you will probably have to hire an architect or house planner. These professionals usually work with engineers and contractors to create detailed drawings and plans. They perform site surveys to help you understand how your proposed additions will affect the surrounding neighborhood if they passcode compliance.