Deferred Submittals Not Automatic!
It is common practice for many designers and contractors to assume that if they can just get part of the requirements submitted to the local jurisdiction for a building permit it will put them in line to get an earlier building permit approval. Nothing could be further from the truth in many jurisdictions across the […]
Early Occupancy
Most building permit applicants are not aware that a building official has the authority granted to him through the model building codes to allow early occupancy or temporary occupancy of a building even before it is completely finished. This is just simply an option that a building official may choose if he feels it is […]
Your Building Permit Must Be Renewed
Almost all jurisdictions only allow 180 days to complete the work or to begin work under an approved building permit. Most jurisdictions require you to renew the permit prior to the expiration date or you must pay a new application fee. Some jurisdictions are a little more flexible but it is your responsibility to make […]
Why Do Permits Take So Long
You may have thought the reason your building permit was taking so long was because the building codes were getting too stringent? The main reason for a long wait in the processing of building permit applications usually centers around development engineering, utilities, planning and land use issues. In the west the listing of the Chinook […]
Starting Work After Filing For A Permit
This little known and seldom used benefit can help you get back on schedule when unexpected delays have destroyed your construction schedule. Many building officials will allow an early start to your project prior to approval and building permit issuance when you can convince them you will make sure everything will be completed according to […]
Alternate Materials and Methods
The three model codes are written to encourage the use of new materials and methods of construction, lowering costs, making affordable housing available and providing a safer and stronger built environment. The Uniform Building Code, National Building Code and Standard Building Codes all allow alternate materials and methods of construction not specifically prescribed by the […]
Staying Out Of Trouble
Be careful before you start a remodeling project. Make sure to check with your local building department, an architect, a reliable contractor or Permit Place to find out if a building permit is required. Having a code enforcement officer write you a citation for failure to apply for a building permit can be embarrassing and […]
Keeping Informed Saves Time
There is a lot of information you need to be aware of before taking that awesome adventure down to your local building department to submit your documents for that new kitchen. Fortunately many of the 40,000 jurisdictions across the United States have a web site where you can get the information you need and help […]
Get a Pre-submittal Conference
Incomplete submittal packages cause almost all of the delays in the building permit approval process. Most of us can sort through the three most common model codes or we can get an architectural, design or consulting firm to help. The most difficult task, however, even for experienced designers to understand are the various development engineering […]