The 2010 NRVHBA Home Expo is right around the corner. We're kicking off our how-to classes on Sat. March 13 at 1 p.m. at the Christiansburg Rec. Center! Come by our FREE How-To Clinic at the Home Expo to learn the first thing you should do when you're thinking about a new building project and what things you should look for in a building contractor.
Can't make it to our How-To Clinic at the Home Expo? No worries! We've got two more how-to classes scheduled in March:
What is a building permit?
A building permit gives you legal permission to start construction of a building project in accordance with approved plans and drawings. They are required in the state of Virginia to ensure that you meet building standards for your safety and the safety of future property owners and occupants.
When do I need a permit?
The best way to find out if you need a permit is to call your local building code department. Even if you don’t need one for your project, your code official can answer questions and offer advice.
Permits are usually required for:
• New buildings
• Additions (bedrooms, bathrooms, family rooms)
• Small projects (decks, garages, fences)
• Renovations (basements, kitchens, roofing)
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• HVAC systems
Can I get my own permit?
Anyone who tries to talk you into getting your own building permit isn’t doing you any favors. The permit holder becomes the general contractor and assumes all responsibility for the job, including taxes, workers’ comp, and other legal liabilities. Unless you are very experienced in construction, it is always best to leave permits to the professionals.
The contractor should obtain any necessary building permits before construction begins. This should be spelled out in your contract; otherwise, you may be held legally responsible for failure to obtain any required permits. If something goes wrong and you don’t have a permit, drastic steps can be taken such as demolition of all the construction that was done sans permit.
Consider your permit your insurance policy
Almost everyone knows someone who has a horror story to tell about a new construction or remodeling job that went terribly wrong, ending up in wasted time, money and headaches. Your building permit is like an insurance policy that protects your investment and can keep you out of trouble down the road.
We have dedicated this post to giving you the 411 on what kind of contractor you need, how to verify the license and references, get comprehensive proposals, and seal the deal.
10 tips for making sure that your contractor measures up.
2) Request current insurance certificates showing proof of coverage and the policy limits for:
General liability and workman's compensation
Ask about other types of coverage like key employee insurance, auto and umbrella coverage, and coverage on tools and equipment.
3) Ask to see a sample contract, specifications and warranty. Consider having your attorney review before approving.
4) Ask about regular deposit amounts.
5) Get references from current and past customers, banks, vendors and local building officials.
6) View examples of their work by touring current projects or looking at their portfolio.
7) Evaluate their professionalism.
Customer service
Awards, certifications and special recognitions
Determine your comfort level with key personnel
8) Get three proposals from your short list and look beyond price.
Are you comparing the same materials and services?
Ask about their process and ability to stay on time.
Remember you get what you pay for, but you NEVER get what you DON'T pay for.
9) You've selected a contractor, now what?
Get a written contact and don’t sign anything until you completely understand the terms.
Pay 10% down, or $1,000, whichever is less.
Get a detailed set of specifications and a pre-set budget.
10) Stay on top of your project:
Stick to pre-set budgets, don’t pay cash, keep records of your payments and don't make the final payment until satisfied.
Keep a job file of all paperwork and regularly ask for schedule and punch list updates.
Do walk-through inspections throughout construction and document everything. Limit and make sure all change orders are in writing and signed by all parties.
