Building a home, renovating an existing one, or constructing a commercial object for business purposes are some examples of what dreams coming true look like. And yet, the feeling of being on cloud nine can wear out once reality hits that there are plenty of urgent decisions and investments to be made. Of course, none is as urgent as bureaucratic chores like taking care of the building permits.
Why Are Building Permits Important?
Because they allow us to legally commence with the construction we have planned for. In addition to proving the said construction will be “up to code” with the zoning laws and land use standards approved by the local council, it makes sure it’s safe for everyone involved during and after the building process. This refers to home building and renovation projects as much as commercial ones, since structural, plumbing, and electrical changes are all eligible for permits.
Why? To ensure these changes are carried out with the minimal hazards possible, whether they’re of a safety or health nature. Simply put, they’re not something you want to take lightly, considering your own well-being and that of everyone else working on or living in the building. Not to mention hefty fines and penalties that might come from being irresponsible, or worse – risk having the whole construction progress demolished. Exceptions, where you’re spared the permit headache, are with repair work for maintenance, painting and upgrading the curb appeal with tile-setting.
Realising the importance of this kind of paperwork, it’s necessary to point out it requires the same amount of planning as the project itself. And, unless you’re a serious DIYer who knows the way of these things, you probably aren’t aware of all the ins and outs which could easily turn the whole thing into one money- and time-consuming ordeal. That’s why the investment in approval for building construction documentation services from professional building consultants is a wise move that could end up saving you more than you can imagine.
Why Hire a Consultant?
Simply because this is a professional who has expertise in this field and can provide you with customised service to meet your needs and deadlines with the best permitting strategies for you. They know things you don’t in terms of types of permits, history, interpretations and updates of local laws and regulations, fees, and all the necessary information and evidence needed for the preparation and submission of the application forms.
They are one step ahead with their experience of what could be the puzzle piece in not having your application rejected. For instance, besides doing the prior discussion, site investigation, danger assessment, and project analysis, they can do planning regarding securing the right energy rating for your home or commercial building that could also help you stay energy-efficient and save up more in the long run.
And I might add, they also have experience in dealing with regulators which is an art in and of itself. Long story short, when you do the math it’s more expensive not to hire a professional, especially if you consider how crucial of a role they play in the following steps of paperwork approval.
In some cases, additional problems may arise such as requiring additional documentation, in the example of consultant and engineer assessments and asset owners’ approvals, which again is where you can rely on the expertise and knowledge of the consultant regarding the approval for building construction requirements. They can quickly adapt as needed to meet the demands and even go as far as assigning additional resources and team members.
Once approved, they will receive and display the permit certificates, schedule the needed inspections, and keep you legally compliant through the planning process with The Building Act 1933, Building Regulations 2018, and the Building Code of Australia. And, in case the permit isn’t issued for one reason or another, they can offer you advice on how to proceed and what you can do about appealing against the council’s decision.
How Do You Find a Good Contractor?
Since this has to do with your finances and the fruition of the project, it’s essential to find the right professional you can entrust with your dream and one who can get you that building approval you need to get started. With this in mind, you need to ask the right questions before you sign a contract with someone.
It’s crucial to research on your own, read reviews online about the construction consultant companies around you, and do some math on what you expect the costs to be. Once you find the ideal option for you, ask for their qualifications and certificates, and check whether or not they have previously had experiences with cases like yours to have peace of mind. And before signing up, negotiate the best terms for both parties, besides ensuring all permits will be acquired.
