By Helen Callier, Contributing Writer
We have all heard the phrase, “Time is money,” at some point and may have experienced delays that punched holes in a project’s budget. In the construction industry, time is crucial – especially when pulling building permits. Getting a permit can be cumbersome and time-consuming, so it’s crucial for contractors to understand how to manage their time effectively in order to keep projects running on schedule.
Here are eight tips for getting building permits quickly and efficiently:
1. Know your building codes. Before you start the permit process, make sure you understand the building codes for your project. This will help reduce delays and ensure that your project meets all local regulations. In addition, knowing building codes will help you determine what type of permit you need, as well as any additional requirements.
2. Research permit requirements. Before you start the permit process, research the specific building code regulations that apply to your project and make sure you understand them. You should also review the application requirements for building permits in your area so that you know what paperwork you need to submit.
3. Prepare your building permit materials in advance. Make sure that all the required documents are filled out correctly and completely before submitting them for a building permit. This includes ensuring that all building plans, drawings, and other materials are accurate and up-to-date.
4. Follow up on building permit applications quickly. After you submit your building permit application, follow up with city plan reviewers and monitor the jurisdiction’s online portal to make sure that everything is moving along in a timely fashion. Following up saves time plus can help ensure that any potential delays are addressed promptly and help avoid unnecessary hiccups.
5. Have a plan for dealing with a building permit delay. Despite your best efforts, building permit delays can occur from time to time. To minimize the impact of this problem, have a plan in place for dealing with potential building permit delays. This could include reviewing your phasing plan, adjusting material delivery schedules, or starting with demolition in case the delay is going to be longer than expected.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Building permit requirements can vary from state to state and even from city to city, so don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about something. Contacting the building department or local building official ahead of time can help save time and ensure that everything is done correctly.
7. Consider hiring a building permit expediter. If you’re unfamiliar with building codes or the building permit process, it may be beneficial to hire a building permit expert who can help guide you through the process and make sure that everything is done correctly.
8. Say “Thank you.” Pulling building permits can be stressful for the permitting staff, so make sure to be professional at all times, and say, “Thank you” as this often helps in making sure your project keeps moving in the plan review process.
By following these eight tips, contractors can ensure that building permits are pulled quickly and efficiently, allowing projects to stay on track. With a little knowledge and preparation, building permits don’t have to be a source of stress. Moreover, with effective time management, building permit delays can be minimized, and projects can stay on schedule.
If you find that you are crunched for time to pull permits, call PermitUsNow at 1.844.PERMIT.4 or visit us on the web at permitusnow.com. 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.
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