Courteous and Cooperative Permit Services

Courteous and cooperative permit services.  It’s not too much to ask.   The old adage, “You catch more flies with honey than you do vinegar” is just as true today in the real estate development world as it was back in Grandpa’s time.

It is easy to forget when we enter a city for a plan check meeting that the people behind the counter do want to be doing their job.

By the time we see them, they are usually tired, stretched thin, and maybe even a little grumpy. It’s hard when we feel like we will not caught, to remember the folks telling us “no,” are human beings that would like to approve projects. Here at Permit Place, we use the “3 C’s” when going to the city: Courteous, curious, and cooperative.

Courteous and Cooperative Permit Services

Courteous. This may be a tricky one, especially if we feel like the city isn’t being courteous to us. This paradox of being nice to someone who maybe isn’t being very patient with you is key to success when in the city. The more courteous you are the more likely they will be to want to work with you.

Curious. The plancheckers in cities rarely do something without a reason and being curious about the process can help clue you in. The people checking the plans have a wealth of knowledge and usually are pretty willing to share it if you just ask. Also, this can help you in the long run if you know a particular area likes things done a certain way. Stay curious and you will be more than satisfied with the results.

Cooperative. This feeds back into courteousness. Being cooperative can make a difference to a tired and overworked government employee. You will be the one making a difference in their day, and they are certain to remember you positively!