Everything You Need to Know About Building Permits for Homeowners

Building permits are by far some of the biggest construction industry headaches there are. If you are a homeowner looking to renovate, add a new structure or even do a little DIY, you know that one of the first steps is getting a building permit. This may sound like a simple task, but oftentimes local governments are not incredibly efficient at handing them out.

Some homeowners are even tempted to skip this process altogether. While it may seem like you’ll be cutting costs and saving time, it can also result in serious consequences like fines, delays and may even hinder the sale of your home in the future. The best advice is to follow all local and state ordinances to ensure your project is legal, safe and up to code.

In this guide, we will tackle the hardship of building permits so it is easy to understand. Follow along to cover all your bases when it comes to your next project.

What Is a Building Permit?

In the simplest terms, a building permit is a document that is issued by your local government that allows you permission to start your construction or renovation project. The government oversees building permits to ensure that your project meets all the building codes and regulations. The goal of building permits is to protect public safety and maintain standards.

The benefits of having a building permit make it certain that your project is legal and follows all laws and regulations. If you do not receive a building permit, you may be forced to pay a fine and even take your work down.

Other benefits include safety and resale value. The government wants to make sure your project is safe for you and for a future home buyer. If you decide to sell your home, any project must have proper permits or you may be faced with consequences and a complicated sales process.

When Do Homeowners Need a Building Permit?

It’s important to know when you need a building permit for your project to maintain safety, compliance and keep your schedule on track. Not every project needs a building permit. Let’s review the instances where you will likely need a permit.

  • Renovations
  • Structural Changes
  • Electrical or Plumbing Work
  • Adding a New Structure: examples include sheds, workshops, decks, garages, etc.
  • Historical Districts: these areas may require even stricter permits with more restrictions.

Your best bet is to always contact your local building department or municipal office. They can guide you through the process and help you understand if a building permit is required.

How to Apply for a Building Permit

When it is time to get a building permit, you may need to gather all the proper documents first. This includes blueprints, site plans and detailed project descriptions. This will accompany an application that goes to the local building authority. Furthermore, you will likely pay a fee to submit the application.

Typically, the building authority will review your application and offer feedback before making an official approval. You want to ensure that everything you have submitted is done correctly with all supporting documentation.

Costs Associated with Building Permits

The cost of a building permit of course varies. The variables include the area in which you live and the size and complexity of the project. You may experience larger fees for projects that are more intricate and require more time for the local building authority to review. These fees can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands.

Tips for Homeowners Navigating Building Permits

  • Consider researching your local government requirements before even considering your project. Regulations will vary greatly.
  • Consult with professionals. It doesn’t hurt to speak with contractors, architects and other industry professionals to gain more insight.
  • Keep detailed records of everything. This can help expedite the process and could be essential should you go to sell your home.
  • Promptly and proactively schedule inspections. This can prevent any delays in your project.

Final Thoughts On Building Permits for Homeowners

If you have a big and exciting project coming, congrats on your new adventure. As exciting as it all can be, some of the first things you have to do can be tedious, exhausting and time consuming. However, choosing to get a building permit first will prevent many future headaches. This may entail doing some researching and learning how your project will need to be organized. In the end, preparation and patience are key to going through the building permit process.