Wednesday
Do You Need Building Permits?
So, you want to remodel your house? Add an addition? Or maybe even just add a backyard patio or deck. And you're wondering if you can save a little money (and red tape) by skipping the permit process?It varies by state and by region, but most place require a building permit if you do any home renovation, repairs, electrical or plumbing changes, new home construction, or even demolition.
It's basically a safety issue - - to make sure the work is done to code. The permit and inspection process can be a pain but it's a necessary regulation designed to protect you.
Do You Need to Find a Permit Expert? We Can Help:
Avoid Headaches Down the Road
Can you have work done -- without a permit -- and get away with it? Sure. Most government agencies believe up to half of the remodeling and addition jobs in their cities are done without permits.
Could avoiding the permit process cause some real problems for you down the road? Oh, yeah.
First, there's the distinct possibility that your city could find out about the work that was done and you could be forced to pay fines and penalties. Sometimes three to ten times the amount of the original permit costs.
Second, if you sell your house, you'll need to disclose all the renovations and repairs done to the home to the potential buyer. And if the work was done without a permit, they could demand that all the work be inspected and that permits be issued. Even years later.
This could mean a completely finished project may need to be torn apart to reveal the structural work beneath for the inspection. It could mean having to pay to have almost all the work done twice! And when the inspector realizes that the work is not recent -- that person could be a harsh judge.
So, for your safety and the health of your bank account, make sure all the proper permits are in place and all the inspections are scheduled. It's your responsibility.
If you're not sure - check with a local city office for requirements. Each state is different and each project may be different.
RELATED POSTS:
Remodel Your Homeowners Insurance
Construction & Remodeling Tips
Checking your Contractor's References
If you're ready to build or remodel, consider ConstructionDeal.com. We'll match you with local contractors for any home improvement project. At no cost. Simply post your project in minutes and wait for our service professionals to call you.
And, if you'd like to find someone to pull those permits for you, you can find a Permitting Service on our site as well.
Labels: Building Tips, Construction Tips, Permit Expeditors, Permits, Permitting Services
Remodeling Contract Tips
It's always important, when taking on any home improvement project, to make sure you're aware of the entire renovation process. And that includes starting everything off right with your contract between you and your general contractor.Here are some tips on things to put in your official contract before you sign on the dotted line:
- Make sure your remodeling contract states the job will pass all inspections and if it does not, then the contractor will cover the expense to fix any problems.
- Be sure all the financial terms of the contract are clear and concise. Lay out a specific payment amount or percentage of the total bill and list when those payments will be made.
- The contract should stipulate the total price, schedule, payment dates, and if there is a cancellation penalty.
- Down payments are usually 10% of the total project cost. If you receive a contract that strays from this, talk it over with the contractor or walk away from their services. Excessive amounts up-front could be a warning sign.
- The contract is a legally binding document that gives details of the expectations and responsibilities of both parties involved (including subcontractors.) It clarifies the goals of both homeowner and the contractor, and protects everyone's rights regarding the remodeling project.
Labels: Contracts, Home Improvement, Home Renovation
Subscribe to Posts [Atom]
