03 Jan Understanding Permits for Architects and Residential Projects
Before construction work can begin on any kind of project, it’s important for the developer and property owner to have an understanding of the necessary building codes for architectural design projects. One of the most common questions we receive is, “Do I need permits for my architect?” This question can only be answered with an understanding of local building codes.
Building permits are authorizations provided by a municipality to move forward with construction on a project. These types of permits are necessary for most remodeling and construction projects to ensure they’re completed safely and in compliance with local ordinances and codes.
However, not every type of project needs a building permit. Again, you’ll need to consult with local building codes to determine permit requirements, but the projects most likely to require building permits include:
- Any project where walls will be added or removed
- Any project in which the use of a room will be changing
- Changing the piping inside a house
- Re-roofing a house
- Demolishing portions of a house or structure
You do not typically need to get permits for simple DIY projects like repainting a house, adding cabinets, repaving a walkway or driveway, changing certain kitchen appliances, or building small fences.
How to get a building permit for your project
Once you’ve determined you need a building permit for your project, you’ll need to complete an application for that permit. The contractor or architect you’re working with may be able to complete this process for you as a value-added service.
You’ll then need a site plan for the project. If you have an extensive project in mind, this is where it’s beneficial to have an architect working with you to sketch out the project, both to provide a plan for the contractors as well as to ensure the project is constructed in compliance with the relevant building codes.
This plan must be approved by local authorities. The city may take days or weeks to review these plans. If they must make any revisions or corrections, you can expect the process to extend a bit longer. But once this process is complete, you will receive a permit and can start scheduling inspections and getting ready to move forward with the construction process.
Again, the exact process you follow here and the timelines will vary from location to location, but this overview at least gives you a sense of your responsibility for getting building permits for your project.
A failure to get a permit could be costly and dangerous. First, you should never work with a contractor who suggests moving forward without a permit—this is a shady business practice and reflects poorly on their professionalism. Construction without a permit could lower the value of your home, and you may be required to take action to bring your home up to code in a sale. The city could also force you to get a permit for the job at an elevated cost if it finds out you’re doing the work without a permit.
For more information about permitting and building codes for architectural design projects, contact the team at Emotive Architecture today.