Permit Expedition: An Architect’s Journey
We got the permit! There were no plan check comments! We got the permit at a lightning speed! It could be that we know what magic ingredients to put in our drawings, maybe we are good at paperwork, or maybe we just got lucky… It doesn’t matter, because we got the permit and it’s time to celebrate!
You may think, why should this be celebrated, isn’t it just part of the Architect’s job to help clients get permits? And yet, every time we get a building permit, we do a little happy dance.
Here is why:
The journey of an Architect in obtaining a building permit is a dynamic and ever-evolving process. As they embark on this venture, Architects find themselves constantly confronted with growing restrictions and requirements. What may have once been a straightforward procedure has now become a complex and intricate task. Building plans have expanded in length, necessitating comprehensive and detailed documentation. Architects find themselves engaging an increasing number of consultants to ensure compliance with various regulations and codes. The preparation of drawings has become a meticulous and arduous endeavor, as every detail must be accounted for to meet the stringent demands of the permitting process.
However, the challenges do not end there. Once the drawings are carefully prepared, Architects face the daunting task of obtaining approval. Local requirements play a significant role, adding another layer of complexity. These requirements are subject to change, making it even more challenging for Architects to navigate the shifting landscape of permit approvals. Each jurisdiction may have its own unique set of criteria and regulations, further complicating the process. Architects have to analyze and adapt their plans to meet the specific demands of the local authorities, ensuring compliance and addressing any potential concerns or objections that may arise.
Despite the hurdles, Architects persevere, using their expertise and dedication to navigate the thorny path to successful permitting. We will be there to reach out to the building department when the plans have been in review for a few months with no word back. We will be there to figure out how to negotiate the plan check comments that are sometimes asking too much and create a hardship for our clients. We will be there to help reduce the permitting fees if they have not been calculated properly by the city clerks.
We become invested in our client’s success and are happy to offer a true concierge service when it comes to the permit expedition. And that’s why when all is said and done and the precious piece of paper is in our hands, we celebrate.
Hurray! Happy permit day!
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