Real Estate 101: Common Types of Construction Permits You Need to Know
Would you build a house knowing it could get demolished after it’s completed? That’s one of the potential risks of illegally building residential and commercial construction. And even if your property remains intact, you’ll have a tough time getting it insured.
Don’t let the cost of obtaining a permit for construction cause you to take shortcuts. The construction permit process may sound costly, but the penalties and fees levied by the city could become an even greater expense. Seek the assistance of ECE vegetation management to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary expenses.
This article provides you with knowledge about common types of construction permits for whatever project you have in mind. But first, you must understand the importance of construction built to code.
Importance of Construction Permits
Imagine not having smoke detectors to alert you of a potentially fatal event. Or handrails that collapse with the slightest of pressure. These are a few examples of what construction permits aim to prevent.
You may think the city is trying to give you a hard time about what seems like a minor detail. But a home construction permit gives you peace of mind during a life-threatening disaster. That’s why it behooves you to contact a real estate lawyer for advice.
Types of Construction Permits
Your state and local jurisdiction determine the required building permits for new construction. And according to the extent of your remodel, you may need to apply for several of these construction and sub-contractor permits.
Foundation Permit
For commercial or residential construction, it could save time to get a permit for laying the foundation. And you can apply for a foundation permit before finalizing your building plans. But as the name implies, foundation permits limit the scope of work it allows you to perform.
Demolition Permit
Before knocking down walls to build a home extension, you’ll need a demolition permit. Any significant structural change needs to meet a code for disposing of property. A demolition permit also prevents the release of unhealthy minerals like asbestos into the environment.
Construction Trailer Permit
Don’t call your crew before you have a construction trailer permit. It’s what allows them to park their construction vehicles on site. Trailer permits are for personnel trailers restricted from public access.
To avoid disruption, make sure your trailer permit doesn’t expire before the project completion date.
Solar Permit
Nowadays, everyone’s looking to make their home or business more environmentally friendly. The sun is free but panels for attracting solar power have an added cost. A permit for new construction may cover solar panels. But you must get a solar permit before adding solar to an existing structure.
Electrical Permit
Regulated electrical work, including installing and altering electrical wiring, requires a permit. To prevent electrical fires, inspectors watch to ensure the proper placement of wiring. So if you own a business, apply for an electrical permit before relocating light switches.
Don’t Underestimate the Value of a Construction Permit
Enjoy the new office space built above your garage without the fear of the floor collapsing. Apply for the required construction permits before breaking ground. And continue to have your property inspected throughout the building process.
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