Get the right information before starting a remodeling project.
Whether you are remodeling a home yourself or have hired a contractor to do it, a remodel can be a long, arduous process, but one that usually nets favorable results. Yet before you start swinging that sledgehammer, check on city requirements; you might be violating the law if you do not have a permit for a major interior or exterior remodeling job. In fact, many aspects of a home remodeling project require city permits and inspections from beginning to end. Does this Spark an idea?
Municipality Rules
The municipality for your city or township is the governing body for construction projects, building permits and city planning. While your home might be your property, there are certain building codes that you must conform to with any construction or remodeling job. These aspects are noteworthy not just when you go to sell, but for annual tax appraisals on your property that determines value. Before undertaking a remodeling project, consult your city planning commission and inquire about the permits needed for remodeling projects, as well as subsequent city inspections. The process and requirements are somewhat different from one city or township to the next, but it is something a homeowner needs to do before starting a remodel.
Homeowner's Associations
If your remodeling project is one that adds a room or other addition to your property, you will likely need to obtain permission from your homeowner's association, in addition to the city planning commission. This holds true especially if the addition is to the front of your property. Even re-facing or refinishing an exterior facade or changing paint colors on a property requires permission from the homeowner's association.
Scope of the Project
Remodeling means different things to different people. If your project is one where you are merely changing out the flooring in your home, painting the interior or adding knobs and pulls to cabinetry, a building permit is not required. However, if your project consists of heavy-lifting items like knocking down walls, moving electrical wiring, or adding or moving plumbing fixtures, you will not only need a building permit, but also an electrical permit or plumbing permit, depending on the scope of the work. Your city planning commission office will inform you of the types of permits required for your project, and the cost of each one.
Time Frame
Your construction time frame is likely doubled with the time required to obtain permits and inspections from the city or homeowner's association. In fact, the initial approval for any city-issued permit can take as long as six weeks. In addition, certain phases of construction require city inspection throughout the process. Calling to schedule evaluations and coordinating approvals with the local building inspector will add time on to your project; however, you will be in compliance with building codes and ordinances, saving you from city fines later.
Tags: city planning, remodeling project, your project, your property, city planning commission, from city, homeowner association