A lot goes into building a new property, from purchasing materials to finding experienced professionals to handle the project. However, most first-time homeowners fail to understand the complexities of getting local permits.
When it comes to permits, an architect is best equipped to handle all the complexities involved. They can navigate the permitting process more efficiently since they know the local building codes. So, what’s the process of getting your local permits, and how will an architect help?
Understanding the Permit Acquisition Process
Municipalities find the best way to regulate construction is through issuing permits. All construction projects must be permitted and approved to meet building standards. The approval practice ensures all properties adhere to the local zoning regulations, building codes, and land use bylaws.
The permit types required depend on the construction project and are obtained from the regional district or local municipality. They include plumbing, building, environmental, and electrical permits. Engaging an architect during permitting is a practical strategy to escape all the complexities involved. They’ll help prepare the required documentation, engineering plans, architectural drawings, and environmental impact assessments.
There’s also a timeline for the permitting process that varies with location and project complexity. The process might involve inspections, reviews, and consultations with several agencies or departments.
The following are some of the standard requirements when getting local permits:
Architectural Drawings
You’ll need to present the architectural drawings prepared by a licensed architect during the permit and approval process. The illustrations help showcase your property’s location, design, dimensions, and layout of your custom home. They must comply with the local building codes and regulations to secure approval.
Engineering Plans
Engineering plans define your property’s structural integrity. Providing them in the permit and approval process helps confirm that your home meets the standard structure integrity requirement. An ideal plan includes framing details, foundation design, and seismic considerations.
Sewer and Water Connection
A practical sewer and water connection is another requirement to secure local permits. With the help of Mark the Architect, you need to verify your property has access to the relevant sewer and water services. An alternative is providing planned-out solutions like well installations and wastewater treatment for those who don’t have access.
Why Use an Architect for Local Permits?
Architects are crucial in permit approval, especially for their expertise in local building codes and designs. Letting them handle your project’s construction permit application increases your chances of securing them faster with minimum complications.
Here are reasons to have an architect manage your local permit application:
Architects are More Experienced
Homeowners should consider architects for their local permit application because of their mastery of the trade. You’ll need a deep understanding of building codes, project goals, and construction standards to execute building design and plan development effectively.
Architects are more familiar with these regulations and building codes, making them the best approach to a successful project. They’ll walk you through all the documentation and engagements besides designing your home. It helps speed up the permit approval process and even saves you money.
Architects will Handle the Paperwork
The approval process for construction permits involves loads of paperwork. Handling these documents for the first time is challenging, so you need an architect. They’ll help complete the application process by gathering and processing all the paperwork. They also know the crucial documents and how to present them to guarantee you a quick and stress-free process.
Architects Interact Better with Permitting Officials
The permitting authority doesn’t make it easy to get an approval. First-time homeowners should expect several challenges if handling the permit approval process alone. You’ll have to answer questions about the project, provide the required documents, and meet the defined standard regulations.
Architects know what questions the permitting officials will ask and can even answer on your behalf. Having one on your side will make your interactions with the authority easier and more effective.
Architects are Problem Solvers
Getting construction permits is not a walk in the park without professional help. Architects are problem solvers and will help you better manage specific challenges. Their experience also means there is a possibility they might have handled such issues before.
Architects Help Save Money and Time
You’ll spend less getting local permits for your project by having a well-conceived plan. Architects are the ideal professionals to help create a more accessible and economical approach to getting approved. Their work is to find a cheaper and faster way through the permitting process.
They’ll ensure you spend less time processing documents and offer personalized advice depending on your project. Instead of spending days browsing through documents and hours in line, why not get yourself an architect to help?
What Other Roles Does an Architect Have in Construction?
Architects are government-licensed professionals primarily responsible for the visual appearance of structures and buildings. They’re focused on design and project planning and can extend until the contract negotiation phase.
Here are other construction roles for architects:
Project Discussion
Before your project comes to life, an architect must create a detailed concept design matching your taste and preference. You’ll have to hold several meetings to discuss crucial aspects of the project, like budget and local planning regulations.
Cost Estimation
Architects also help gain better control of your finances during construction. After visualizing your idea, they’ll create a design that fits your budget. Note that the amount quoted by the architect depends on the complexity of their role.
Contractors
You might also need an architect when finding contractors. Once received, they execute analysis reports on all tenders and compare them with your budget and expectations. They’ll also perform site visits and meetings once the construction starts.
Conclusion
A lot can go wrong if you handle the permit approval process DIY. That’s why you need an architect to help with all the procedures and complexities involved. Mark the Architect recommends you get an architect to help prepare the required documents, file them, and follow up until you get approval.
If you would like to know more or have any questions, contact us today.
