When you build a house or remodel your home, your local town requires you to apply for a building permit (also called a construction permit). You can think of the permit process as a dialog between the homeowner, the builder or remodeler, and the town's building department.
The goal of the building permit is to insure that all work is done according to local rules and local/state/national building codes. You want to make sure you get a building permit for projects that require one, as you may be subject to fines if you don't.
What Happens After a Building Permit is Issued?
The building permit isn't just a piece of paper. It must be followed up with one or more building inspections to make sure that the work being done follows building codes. Your builder/remodeler knows how much lead time is needed between the request for an inspection, and the actual date it occurs. For homeowners doing the work themselves, you should ask for the following information when you get your permit.
- When the building permit is issued– there are rules about where you must post the building permit on your home.
- While the project is underway – there will be one or more inspections by the building inspector, to make sure that all work satisfies local rules and building codes. poured the concrete.
- When the project is completed – there is a final inspection and the completion must be recorded. You also shouldn't be surprised if property taxes are raised to reflect the higher value of your home.
For new home construction, a certificate of occupancy will be issued after the final inspection.
Problems When Building Permits Aren't Done Right
When doing work on your home's exterior, everyone can see what's happening and some folks driving by will look for your building permit. It's a little easier to hide work being done inside your home.
If you skip over the building permit and inspection process, you might get away with it for a while. But when it comes time to sell your home, you'll likely run into problems like the ones described by realtor Dian Hymer, in 5 Building Permit Issues You Can't Ignore.
