Upgrading your home through remodeling or repairs is a lot like making a financial investment. And, when you choose to add upgrades, or increase your investment, ideally it should lead to a larger return when you eventually decide to sell. But, like any experienced businessman or stockbroker, you must take steps to guard your assets. When it comes to remodeling, there is no better way to protect your added value then by making sure you have all the proper permits before any new construction takes place.
While the process of permits can seem a little unclear, and you may be unsure of why you need them in the first place, Bryan Sebring, owner of the residential remodeling business Sebring Services, explains that any high-quality contractor will insist on acquiring the permits for you. Even still, he gladly walks through the steps of obtaining a permit, and the reasoning behind why they are extremely beneficial to you and your home.
What is a permit?
Essentially, a permit is a legal notice that provides permission to start a construction project based on approved plans and drawings.
How do you get a permit?
First, you must complete and submit an application to your municipality that states your intentions for building. This includes when it will take place, where, and any drawings or proposals that have already been drafted. Upon reviewing your application, a code official will determine if your project meets the proper building and safety codes set forth by the law. If your plans meet code requirements, then you will be approved. If not, the code official will explain why your application was rejected. So you can make the necessary changes to your plans and reapply. During the remodeling project, on-site visits will be made by inspectors. This will be followed by a final inspection once the project is completed and it has been determined that you complied with all necessary codes.
How do permits benefit you?
By obtaining the proper permits, you are ensuring that your construction will meet the safety and building codes in your area. If you fail to get permits, then your property insurer can choose to stop coverage on your home. So, for example, if you remodel your basement and a few months later an electrical fire starts where new ceiling lights were added, you may be responsible for all damages if you did not obtain a permit for the remodeling project. Additionally, you can be fined by the town for illegally building on your property. And, warns Sebring, a lot of towns are becoming more serious when it comes to enforcing permit laws.
Permits also affect the resale value of your home in the future, explains Sebring. Potential buyers will want to see copies of the permits you obtained for upgrades made within the home. Without permits, the resale value of your home could depreciate, and buyers may be leery about purchasing the home entirely because of the safety and legal issues they could face.
What do permits tell you about your contractor?
If your contractor offers to handle the permit process for you, then let him. Having him do so sets the pace of the rest of the relationship between you and the business, notes Sebring. This automatically tells you that his business only uses licensed professionals and that he is adamant about following local safety codes and procedures.
Permits also serve as added protection for the contractor. Because permits guarantee that a contractor’s work will be inspected during and after the construction process, it takes away from some of their liability.
When do you need a permit?
Every town has different laws surrounding the need for permits, but it is best to check with your local jurisdiction before you begin any new project, advises Sebring. In most caseS, however, you will need a permit if you are making additions to your basement, bedrooms, or bathrooms; if you are putting up a deck, garage or fence; if you are working on the electrical wiring in your home; or if you are installing a central heating and cooling system.
