5 Renovation Tasks That Require a Permit and why you Need Them |
Posted: March 21, 2017 |
When undertaking any interior or exterior renovation project for multifamily properties, the focus of many owners is to decide the changes they need to introduce to the building’s layout that help them enhance their property’s rentability. Many multifamily housing investors, however, overlook the importance of getting permits or approvals against new changes such as plaster repair, ventilation, HVAC, and waterproofing, from regulating authorities, which in turn may lead to certain penalties. Some others may get confused on what qualifies as jobs for which they must get a permit. To help clear the smokescreen, the post discusses some renovation tasks that need permits and why it is important to have them in place. Take a look. ImportanceComplianceWhether you are replacing old HVAC units in your multifamily housing building, or undertaking major changes such as interior renovation, ventilation, waterproofing or plaster repair, most states have building codes and require owners to ensure their property complies with these regulations. Renovating the interiors or exteriors may involve tweaking your building’s layout. Getting necessary permits in advance will help you fulfill these requirements. Evidence of the Improvement Projects UndertakenPermits serve as an evidence of improvement projects you’ve undertaken to restore or enhance your building’s value. You can present these documents for verification to an assessor or an inspector, if the need arises. Permits are a proof that the job was executed by a professional without cutting corners. Changes that Require Permits1. Installing Windows and DoorsMany municipal and regulating bodies would require that you get necessary permits while installing new doors, windows, and skylights that provide a new opening. You also need to get necessary permits if you’re replacing glasses of your doors and windows to ensure they complies with the requirements laid down by the International Residential Code. That said, you won’t need any permits while replacing your old windows unless the job involves creating a new hole. 2. Erecting FencesMany municipalities would require property owners looking to install fence that exceeds a certain height to get a permit. Some states also prohibit the use of certain designs and will require that your provider evaluates the area to ensure there are no utility lines lying underneath. If you think this is the case, it is advisable that you embark on the project after consulting a surveyor. 3. Installing new Plumbing and Electrical Systems or Tweaking the Existing OnesUpgrading existing plumbing and electrical systems or upgrading their design such as adding new circuits or additional wiring in most cases will require a permit by your local municipal body. Some states will require you to get approvals for even minor jobs such as replacing an outlet. To avoid confusions, work with an experienced renovator who’ll use their connections and expertise to get all the necessary permits. 4. Introducing Structural ChangesIn most cases you’ll need a permit, if your renovation project involves tweaking the property’s structure such as installing or removing load or non load bearing walls, adding porches, decks and balconies, or any other job that requires changing the property’s support structure.You must also check with the local authorities before adding bedrooms, decks, and garages to your units. 5. Other ChangesSome other upgrades that may require a permit are removing a sink, replacing existing roofs, with new systems include a waterproofing membrane, plaster repair, installing gutters, painting walls, and repairing an existing fence. ConclusionNo doubt getting necessary permits, can add to the cost of your interior renovation project. The value proposition offered by these documents offer long term returns and can help you avoid legal issues in future. It is advisable that you work with an experienced interior renovation service provider who can help you get required permits against the changes you undertake during the renovation project.
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