There are so many reasons why you can’t just jump on into a redesign or remodel and get cracking. At a minimum, your design needs to be approved for health and safety reasons. If you’re working on a property that’s listed or has structural features that aren’t currently up to code, then there are going to be many, many extra hoops that you’ll need to jump through before you can even pick up a sledgehammer to bring down that wall.
Building approvals are a means to safeguard the homeowner and the community, but that doesn’t always make them a joy to deal with. Dealing with approvals and the application process is one of the biggest challenges for new architects and designers just starting on their own. If you are feeling daunted about the challenge, don’t worry. This guide will help you work through the process, and how to get your design approved.
What Are Building Approvals?
If you’re considering starting a construction or remodeling project, you’ll need building and planning approvals from your local government. These approvals are vital because they ensure that your plans meet all the legal requirements for your area, like building codes and zoning regulations. You’ll need to submit detailed plans and specs for your project to get approvals, which the relevant authorities will then review. They’ll ensure everything is up to snuff and compliant with all the rules.
Why Do I Need to Get Approvals Before Starting a Job?
Building approvals serve several crucial purposes. They:
- Help safeguard public safety by making sure structures withstand natural disasters, fire hazards, and other potential risks.
- Help maintain the aesthetics and integrity of the neighborhood by enforcing zoning regulations and design standards.
- Ensure you comply with the legal requirements to protect your clients from legal issues while also maintaining your professional reputation.
What Can I Do to Make the Job Simpler?
Navigating the building approvals process can be complex, but there are steps to make things a walk in the park:
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Familiarize Yourself with Local Regulations
Understanding the specific requirements and regulations of the jurisdiction in which you are working is paramount. Stay updated with any changes in building codes, zoning ordinances, and permit application procedures.
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Engage in Early Consultations:
If you want to keep things straightforward, then hire some building consultants. These consultants specialize in all types of approvals, from heritage or listed building plans to construction jobs. When you have people who know just how to put together an application and what information is needed, you’ll be well on your way to seeing your project come to life on time.
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Prepare Thorough Documentation
Develop comprehensive plans and specifications that meet all necessary criteria. Ensure that your documents are accurate, and well-organized, and include all relevant details, reducing the chances of delays or rejections.
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Communicate Effectively
Maintain open and proactive communication with the relevant authorities and your clients throughout the approval process. Clarify any ambiguities promptly, address concerns, and provide any additional information required promptly.
Can I Appeal If My Application Is Denied?
Yes, but you’ll need to make some tweaks before you submit your application again. First, you’ll need to understand why, precisely, your application was rejected. Do this by thoroughly assessing the feedback provided to identify potential areas for improvement. With that information, you’ll then want to go back and seek out professional advice from those consultants or other architects and legal experts. Once you have created a revised plan and have adjusted it accordingly, you can then reapply for approval. In some cases, you may even need to force the issue. For example, if a client needs accessibility ramps installed on the property, but the HOA has essentially blocked that planning permission, you can then get an appeal through the courts.
