If you are going to build in an existing building / house, whether these are modifications or new annexes, you need a construction permit; and let’s be honest, all the paperwork and diligence related to this type of procedure is not always very pleasant.
A building permit is required for your local government to ensure that your building project meets the minimum standards set by the Florida Building Code. There are several types of building permits in Florida, and the type of permit you need depends on the type of work you want to do.
Building a new structure or renovating an existing one normally requires a general building permit, while electrical work requires an electrical permit. In any case, going with a professional will not only save you time, it will also ensure the project is running smoothly. Getting a permit and following the necessary procedures before starting construction is important, because failure to do so can result in serious consequences, such as fines or the suspension of the project altogether.
Types of building permits
Although it may seem strange needing a building permit if you just want to create a small business, you will need several local, state, and federal permits and licenses. Well, you may need a basic license to operate your business or a specific license in addition to a state permit.
In the case of Florida, it has two types of licenses: certified and registered.
The person you hire as your contractor must be a licensed registered contractor to work locally, while as a certified contractor can work anywhere in the state. But if you need some advice, just ask.
It is important for you to know and understand the building permits and the construction license your workers have, because these are required by the state where you want to develop the project.
You need permits for commercial contracting; residential hire, plumbing jobs, electrical jobs, gas jobs, and road work.
How to get a building permit:
A building license can be the first step in increasing the value of your investments. Consider the mandatory requirements for your project and develop it to enjoy new benefits in the future. Remodeling, extensions, and improvements can give your properties a plus, whether for rent, as for permanent residence, or resale.
- You need the permit application; you get it directly from the official website of the city where your property is located. We do these procedures ourselves to help you save time and energy, but we like you to know exactly what we do and know that you can trust our services.
- Fill in the applicant information. Here you must include the address of the property and the parcel or folio number. This number is available on your property tax return.
- Select the type of permit you are requesting. It depends on the type of project you are carrying out. New structures require a general “building” permit. Possible types of permissions include:
- Building
- Electric
- Mechanic
- Plumbing
- Roofing
- Demolition
- Special event
- Select the type of permit Check the box corresponding to the type of request you are making. These options include:
- New permit
- Change of contractor
- Change of architect/engineer
- Permit extension
- Permit renewal
- Permission review
- Change of use
- Private provider
- City Project
- Provide the type of property. Check the box corresponding to the type of property being built or renovated. Your options include:
- Commercial
- multi-family residential
- Residential
- On the other hand, if you’re looking to do a residential project, like a remodeling, here’s the process to get a building permit:
The first step is to contact local authorities and explain your intentions to your immediate community and start from there. If you live in a building and want to change the floor, ask the building manager what you will need from them, and then contact the building department asking the same thing.
- Indicate the total value of the work and the square footage of the property. This is very important; you also need to put the total value of the work to be done.
- Provide a description of the work to be performed. It is a brief summary of everything that will be done on the property.
- Provide the names of the responsible parties. It is necessary to provide a list of the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the parties responsible for the project.
- Owner
- Contractor
- Architect
- Structural engineer (if required for the project)
- Sign and submit the forms with plans. At the building department permit counter, submit the completed and signed application along with two sets of plans for review.
- Wait for the city to review your application. Once you submit your application and initial fees along with your plans, the City will conduct a plan review. The review waiting period may vary by city.
These are just the basic steps for applying for a building permit, but there is a lot to do, such as notarizing signatures and documents, reviewing the process for expediting, finding certified contractors for the job, as well as keeping an eye out for any eventuality, such as the rejection of the application.
We are here, we are not only experts in construction permits, but we take care of the entire process while you can work and save time, money, and energy. If you want more information about our services, do not hesitate to call us 1-888-926-3599.
