If you’re planning an upcoming home revamp in the Metro DC area, you may be wondering about the permit process. While it varies from state to state, below are a few need-to-knows about building permits.
When Do You Need One? Small cosmetic fixes—say, a new paint job or landscaping—generally do not require a permit. Structural modifications or any changes that add footage to your house, however, typically require you to pull a permit. If unsure whether or not your project requires a permit, ask a professional in your area.
Why Do You Need One? For starters, building without a permit is illegal, and if you don’t obtain one, you could be forced to take down your renovation later on. A building permit does a variety of things; it ensures your project is up to code, which keeps your contractors honest, and your project safe. A permit also makes it easier for you to sell your home later, as an unpermitted home is a serious real estate hassle.
How Do You Get One? If you’re working with a contractor, they can pull the permit for you. However, if you’re going the DIY route, you will need a detailed outline of your project, including plans and blueprints, which you will submit to your local building department. Keep in mind that it can take some time for your plans to be approved and your permit to be issued, so submit your plans well in advance of your construction start date to ensure the permitting process doesn’t slow you down.
We’re Your Dedicated Metro DC Real Estate Experts
We hope you found the above information useful as a Metro DC residents. As real estate agents with years of experience in the area, we are always striving to provide residents with valuable information that makes life easier for them.
We also love to help prospective home buyers and sellers in the area. Thus, if you’re thinking about entering the Washington DC real estate market anytime soon as a home buyer or seller, please make sure to connect with us at The Estridge Group.
We would love to assist you at every stage of the process!
Until next time,
Melinda
