A building permit refers to an authorization that must be granted by the government or any other regulatory body before constructing a new building, expanding on an existing one, or in some cases before doing major renovations. The number of permits required for a job or a project is determined by how complex of the project is and what body or agency is required to approve the project. These building permits are controlled by the authorities where the building or construction activity is being done. Every building being put up have to be inspected throughout construction and soon after it has been completed to make sure that it complies with the state, federal, and regional building codes. Any unauthorized building-without a permit-is subject to hefty fines and penalties, including demolition.
Laws and requisites that govern construction vary from state to state. When obtaining a building permit in South Florida, law requires one to obtain a building permit if you wish to build, or add on an existing structure. Obtaining a building permit can be quite a troublesome process. Failure to follow permit application procedures as stipulated by different municipalities and governmental agencies, provide the necessary supporting documentation, and to submit the proper forms will delay the acquisition process.
Building permits acquisition process
This is done in two basic phases:
Plan review: First, the county staff assesses the permit application as well as building plans to ensure that they comply with the building codes. This must be finished before the issuance of a building permit.
Construction inspection: This takes place after the building permit has been issued. A building engineer approves the project in stages to ensure that work is done accident-free and in agreement with the accepted plans and codes.
Upon completion of your building, you are issued with a certificate of completion. A certificate of occupancy is issued to you after the necessary inspection has been done to a completed construction project. Construction permit is must in many states, especially for the building structures that are put up in cities and towns.