Navigating building permits can seem overwhelming, especially when starting the project is top of mind. Understanding the requirements for building permits and the process it entails is essential for a successful, seamless project. Without proper permitting, your project could experience delays, penalties, or even legal risks causing the timeline to delay. Why exactly are building permits important to your project? What steps do you need to follow to get the proper permits? What issues can you expect? Can working with a construction management company alleviate some of the stress associated with building permits? 

What are Building Permits and Why Are They Important?

A commercial building permit is the legal documentation required for projects involving any sort of structural change to a building or new construction. It is important to note that while there may be some nuanced differences, all states require permitting for any sort of project. There are different types of permits depending on the project. Your project could be commercial versus residential, which would be based on where the property is zoned.  The scale of the project size is also a contributing factor to the type of permit you’d need especially if your project is a remodel or new construction. Additionally, there are permits for specified projects like electrical, plumbing, or fire safety. Obtaining this sort of permit depends on project scope. Partnering with a trusted construction management company will help decrease stress associated with permitting by assisting with the permitting process. 

You’d also determine the specific building permit needed based on the project type. For example, general contracting permits are different compared to subcontracting. General contractor permits are done at a county or city level. Subcontractor permits are field specific meaning the permit would be based on the work being done (like electrical or plumbing). Design-build projects also require specific permitting and approvals from the Department of Homeland Security, through the State Build Commissioner. This is a process that a construction management company would be able to oversee.

Building permits are essential for safety, legal compliance, and maintaining the project integrity. The permit deems a work site to be safe and in compliance with legal requirements. Without the proper permitting, the property owner is likely to face fines or even stop-work orders until the necessary permits are obtained. Permitting ensures that all involved in the construction project are abiding by local and state safety regulations along with ensuring the project is completed well. 

Key Steps in the Building Permit Process

There are necessary steps to follow when obtaining a building permit, regardless of the type of permit or area you’re located. Partnering with a construction management company you trust can help with this process and ensure you’re not missing any of these key steps. 

Step One: Initial Research and Pre-Application

First, you’ll want to do initial research prior to starting your pre-application. Depending on the type of project you’re doing, you may need a commercial (versus residential) permit. Along with the commercial or residential zone, you’ll want to research any specific regulations to your area. Along with working with a design-build company, you can also contact regulatory agencies for guidance in putting together your permit application. 

Step Two: Submitting Plans and Documentation

Submitting your plans and documentation in their entirety is an important step in the permitting process. You’ll need to include any architectural blueprints, engineering reports, code summaries for things like occupant calculations and fire protection, and accessibility and exit plans. Be sure this documentation has been reviewed and is complete and legible. You’ll need to submit to the city and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security at the same time. A design-build team can streamline this process and simplify the steps so you aren’t managing it on your own. 

Step Three: Review and Approval Process

You’ll want to be sure you’ve accommodated plenty of time for review and approval so your project timeline is minimally impacted. Typically, the approval process could take around 20 business days. This estimate is typically based on the area in which your permit is going to be for and staffing availability. Construction cannot legally begin until the permit has been approved so keep that in mind for your project timeline.

Step Four: Inspections and Final Approval

Once you’ve received approval and you begin working on your project, you’re still subject to on-site inspections. Maintaining a compliant work site is essential to keeping your permits and avoiding fines or project delays. On top of routine inspections, you’ll also need to obtain final approval once construction is completed. Some common issues that get flagged during final inspections include the building not meeting ADA requirements or final building construction doesn’t match the original plans. These could be smaller fixes like adjusting signage or rail heights. Either way, you and your design-build team can work together on a solution to meet those requirements.

Common Challenges in the Building Permit Process

Some challenges are expected when going through the building permit process just with how extensive the process can be. While the steps are in place to maintain the safety of workers, employees, and all involved, it can still be a hard process, especially alone. 

Delays in Permit Approvals

Delays often are caused by missing documentation, zoning issues, or understaffed agencies. Working with someone who is experienced in the permitting process can help you avoid some of these delays. Some other ways to expedite the process is to check multiple times that you’ve got all the correct documentation. You can also verify zoning and codes based on your area and project before submitting your permit application. 

Dealing with Code Violations and Corrections

There is always a chance that you’re not aware of specific codes that are relevant to your project. Maybe you’ve failed to meet zoning requirements and perhaps received a stop work order. First, the property owner or permit holder will be contacted by the Code Enforcement Officer. In some instances, a solution is also suggested. You can work with your general contractor or construction management company on potential solutions. You’ll need to file a request with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to have an updated inspection or review done once you’ve taken necessary steps to resolve the issue. 

Working with Multiple Agencies

In an ideal situation, streamlining the agencies you’re working with will help with overall project movement and communication. Working with multiple agencies causes confusion when they all aren’t on the same page. The best thing is to be sure all involved in the project have the timeline and access to necessary documentation for progress. Staying a few steps ahead and following up on everything will keep the project moving forward. 

Unexpected Inspections

While inspections are sometimes a nuisance, they are necessary to make sure all regulations are being met. Checking in with construction progress throughout the project is a good way to stay on top of what’s been done and what still needs to be done. Having all your documentation up to date and easily accessible helps when unexpected inspections do come up. Be sure to schedule all mandatory meetings as soon as possible and follow up with any recommendations or suggestions. 

Simplify the Building Permit Process with a Construction Management and Design-Build Team 

Working with an experienced construction management and design-build team gives you the expertise to make sure your project is done right. The Tonn and Blank design-build team has in-house architects, engineers, BIM technicians, and program managers to make sure the entire process runs smoothly. Team continuity and communication are top priorities and when everyone working on the project works with the same company, your timeline is easier to maintain. Rest assured that partnering with an experienced construction management team helps ensure compliance in every state of the project. A construction firm can also step in to manage necessary communication and negotiations with regulatory bodies. 

Assistance in Navigating Permitting Process Steps

Understanding and efficiently navigating the building permit process is essential to a seamless project. While it can seem hard with all the necessary steps, making sure you’ve got experienced partnerships on your side will truly make it seamless. From the initial research before submitting for permits to the final approval of your completed project, having an experienced construction management firm on your team alleviates the stress of figuring it out on your own. 

If you need help with the permitting process, construction management, or design-build projects, Tonn and Blank is ready to get started. As a trusted construction company in Indiana, our team has the experience, technology, and employee power to execute a reliable delivery process. Reach out today to start the conversation about your next project.