Whether you’re planning to remodel a room or 2 in your home or a total renovation, were you aware that in order to do so, your contractor will need to file a building permit? While there are some alterations that may not require a building permit, most renovations will. This does depend on the area in which you live, the size and extent of the project, and other factors of which your contractor will be aware.
This Year’s Renovation Projects
Homeowners across 5 major centers are panning to renovate this year. Recent data indicates that 40% of the homeowners in these areas will be renovating, and 31% are planning to remodel a specific room in their house. This appears to be the most popular type of renovation being planned for this year. Whether it’s adding a second or third bathroom, updating a kitchen, or transforming that garage into an entertainment room, there will be quite a few projects being handled this year.
While some homeowners are planning to renovate 1 or more rooms, others are having solar panels installed. In addition to being a sustainable source of energy, these panels can help to reduce the costs of utility bills. It’s interesting to note that over the past 5 years, solar installations have increased by 487%.
Since solar panels are energy-saving additions, homeowners are usually able to receive government tax credits. While each state has its own incentives, United States’ federal subsidies may offer credits of up to 30% for the cost of installing these systems.
In order to power the average-sized home, a 600 square foot panel is usually needed. Larger homes will, of course, need additional panels. Solar panels are also recommended for heating swimming pools and providing for other energy needs.
A Few Building Permit Basics
There are various costs associated with obtaining a building permit. Your contractor will usually need to pay $200.00 to $400.00 to secure a permit. In order to file the specific project, the costs can range from $1,500.00 to $3,500.00.
The costs of building permits will depend on the location, size, scope, value, and type of construction work that will be performed. While a permit may cost less than $100.00, in some cases, they can cost $1,000.00 or higher.
Once your contractor files a plan package, it will usually take about 3.8 days before they are able to meet with an examiner, according to the Buildings Department. If everything is approved, then your contractor will be able to proceed.
In order to expedite this process, your contractor may decide to work with a building permit expediting service. Permit expediters offer a valuable service because they will be able to take care of the different types of permits needed to complete a project. This can be especially helpful when multiple projects are involved, such as having a solar panel installed as well as a room remodel.
Since you would most likely prefer your renovations to be completed as soon as possible, you may want to ask your contractor if they plan to utilize permit expediting services. Chances are that your contractor uses these services on a regular basis.