I relate to this question as both a homeowner and a contractor.
Why it matters: Your local permitting office can seem more like a toll booth than a helpful partner in your construction project.
- It would take an hour long podcast to unpack that statement!
🔭 Zoom out: Building permits are supposed to protect consumers by ensuring your project meets code requirements.
- The code is written to define the MINIMUM standards for building.
😈 Playing devil’s advocate: Isn’t this just a form of government control and a source of revenue for cities?
- Truth? Yes. It can be.
But, but, but, but, but the code isn’t the issue (IMHO). I’m in favor of all the code requirements related to any trades I understand.
- The issue is the way codes are or are not enforced.
🥊 The bottom line: The most important thing you can do as a consumer is educate yourself.
- And yes, despite the flaws in the system, I think it’s best to pull a permit.
✅ For your Smart Homeowner list
- Matt Risinger’s YouTube channel is my favorite source to learn about best practices for building. Check it out!
Best,
Travis