Navigating Building Codes and Permits: What You Need to Know​

Working through building codes and permits is challenging for any construction project, whether it is a small addition to a home or a large commercial building. These codes are necessary to provide safety and compliance.

In Louisiana and most of Florida, specifications differ by municipality, with the need for plan submission and inspection, which can time-consumingly slow you down. Hiring qualified specialists such as Big Easy Contractors can make the process smoother, preventing wasted time and time-consuming errors while ensuring compliance with all applicable legal requirements.

What Are Building Codes?

Building codes are relevant, noted standards that lay down basic guidelines for sustainable and safe building. Pennsylvania adopts these guidelines via the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), drawing on model building codes provided by the International Code Council (ICC). They incorporate crucial topics such as structural adequacy, electrical and plumbing installation, fire codes, and efficiency of energy use in a way that defends against unhealthy construction habits.

What Are Building Permits?

Building permits are official authorizations by the local government for the start of a building project. Permits are needed for most new constructions and renovations, particularly structural changes, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing.

Allowing these standards to be met safeguards the well-being and safety of all people. Apart from this, it prevents cities from paying fines and losing time on projects, conserving property value in the future.

Navigating the Permit Application Process

Taking control of the permitting process is necessary for your construction project to remain on schedule. It may seem daunting at first, but once you dissect it, it’s quite simple.

1. Plan Your Project Thoroughly

Following the permitting process for your construction project can be confusing, but if you keep it all in line, it will be simpler to understand the big picture. Begin by putting on paper what your project is: what you plan to build, what you want to build it out of, and how long you anticipate taking to finish it. This will depend upon local jurisdiction, so do your research and learn about your local building codes so that you can work that time frame into your construction.

If you are installing two or more stories, you will need zoning permission, whereas a single-level patio would not. Having experienced consulting professionals working for you is necessary so that you’ll have everything in order and in compliance with existing regulations.

2. Gather Required Documents

Gathering the proper documentation is imperative. Most municipalities require details like the project’s location, legal ownership, contractor licenses, cost estimates, and, in some cases, a soils report. For smaller projects such as re-roofs or minor plumbing repairs, the Building Division offers FAST-TRAC Permitting. The service can handle permit applications in an average turnaround of two business days.

3. Submit Your Application

Applications tend to be submitted via online portals operated by the Building Division. It is important to thoroughly review all inputs because even the simplest error can effectively stall your application. Remember that roughly 2% of applications will take additional approvals. These might be based on feedback from other departments, such as Fire or Environmental Control.

4. Pay Applicable Fees

Permit fees vary based on the size and type of project. Payments are typically processed through the online platform, ensuring a simple and efficient transaction.

5. Schedule Inspections

Inspections serve to safeguard the public by ensuring that your project is safe and compliant with the code. Inspections may include foundation inspection, framing inspection, and final inspection. They are requested and scheduled through your local jurisdiction’s Building Division.

6. Obtain Final Approval

After all required inspections are done, you receive final approval. This is the final confirmation that your project is legal and safe for public use.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Dealing with building codes and permits may pose the same challenges, but having a solid understanding of typical challenges and the associated processes can make everything more efficient.

Resolving Application Issues

Another common complaint is a lack of guidance on confusing or unclear regulations. Either missing documents or errors in building plans can cause significant delays in approvals. In design-build projects, for instance, you often have to submit permits to two separate owners.

Instruct them, first, to send them to local government entities and then to IDHS. You will be required to submit simultaneously to the city of your choice and the IDHS. Approval often takes 20 business days or more.

Addressing Inspection Failures

Inspection failures often arise when construction doesn’t match approved plans or fails to meet specific standards, such as ADA compliance. Inspections, whether performed by government employees or private-sector third-party contractors, can catch these differences. Once you’ve found the violation, you’ll have to submit a formal complaint to IDHS to get an updated inspection after you fix the problem.

Managing Project Delays

We all know that delays typically stem from last-minute changes or holding up the process for approvals. A proactive approach, like having a coding expert on retainer and allocating time upfront for strategic long-range planning, avoids disruptions. Design-build teams accelerate schedules, too, by verifying that every step meets requirements.

Moving Your Project Forward

Knowing building codes and permits allows you to move forward in your projects without a hitch. They safeguard residents, property values, and communities. When you do things the right way from the start, it makes things so much easier later on. You do not need to do it yourself.

An experienced team can help you save time, save money by avoiding mistakes, and lower your stress level. If you plan to work in 2024, call Big Easy Contractors. We’ll take the details off your plate, and you can work on the dreams you have. Call us today, and let’s get started!