By Helen Callier, Contributing Writer
Residential housing makes up a large portion of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ranging on average from 4% to 5% according to the National Association of Home Builders. This percentage of GDP includes new homebuilding and remodeling.
In years prior to the pandemic, the residential housing market was often viewed as cyclical and contractors had to manage their businesses accordingly to avoid the busy times. A different paradigm emerged in housing since the pandemic which resulted in a significant increase in remodel work where homeowners signed contracts for expansions, additions, bathroom and kitchen remodels, garage apartments, plus more to create an ideal living experience. Even despite pressures from the high cost of materials over the last couple of years, many residential contractors stayed busy in 2020 and 2021, and some contractors even turned away work.
Here’s what’s interesting. Hot markets bring out the good and the not so good situations. The good is where a reputable contractor provides professional services and quality work in making their customer’s dreams become a reality. The not so good is where a new start-up contractor unknowingly makes a mistake, or less than ethical contractors wanting their slice of the remodeling pie start demolition, hammering, and so on without pulling the proper permits and then walks off the project leaving the homeowner in a bind.
When PermitUsNow’s toll-free line rings with disappointed homeowners seeking a solution or from contractors stepping in to clean up someone else’s mess, our team members relay that building permits are a necessary step in the process of any residential remodeling project. It is important to get them pulled as soon as possible because they take time and can be difficult to obtain on short notice. Also shared are ways to expedite the permit process so contractors can do what inspires them the most, and that is making customers’ dreams come true!
In addition, when it comes to building permits, some contractors are under the impression that they do not need one. This is a misconception unless the project is in a deep rural area. Building permits are required for any project that will impact or be in contact with your home’s foundation, electrical wiring, plumbing system, and more. It can also help you save money on remodeling projects by protecting against future issues caused by faulty repairs! We’ve compiled below some helpful tips to get your residential remodeling project permitted quickly so you can start making your customers happy.
- Start early to eliminate rushing around at the last minute and missing items in the permit package.
- Perform quality check on construction plans.
- Check the jurisdiction’s website for any changes in permitting processes, new operating hours, updated forms, and so on.
- Ask questions of City’s Permitting Plan Reviewers to address any areas of concern in meeting building codes.
- Confirm trades are prepared to pull permits to avoid any hiccups once construction gets started.
At PermitUsNow, we are committed to pulling permits for our architect, contractor, and project owner clients without delay, eliminating their frustrations with the permitting process. Plus, we make it easy for you to work with us. Simply 1) Email us your plans, 2) Follow up on our feedback for any missing items, and 3) Let us get your permitting done for you. So, send us your plans today and we’ll free you up to focus on doing what you love – building your customers’ dreams. Call the PermitUsNow team at 1.844.PERMIT.4 if you need assistance with permits. Visit us on the web at permitusnow.com. #BuildSafe
