### The Permit Application Process: What Contractors Must Do

Professional contractors should handle all aspects of permit applications, from initial research through final inspection approval. Understanding this process helps homeowners verify that contractors are managing permits appropriately and identify potential problems before they become expensive complications.

Initial permit research involves contractors determining what permits are required for specific projects and understanding application requirements, fees, and approval timelines. Experienced contractors maintain current knowledge of local permit requirements and can quickly identify what approvals will be needed. Contractors who seem uncertain about permit requirements may lack local experience or adequate knowledge.

Permit application preparation includes creating detailed plans, specifications, and documentation required by local building departments. Complex projects may require engineered drawings, structural calculations, or specialized documentation prepared by licensed professionals. Contractors should handle all application preparation or coordinate with appropriate design professionals.

Plan submission and review involves contractors submitting applications to building departments and responding to any questions or requests for additional information during the review process. Experienced contractors understand local review procedures and can navigate the process efficiently while ensuring all requirements are met.

Fee payment represents a significant project cost that should be clearly addressed in contractor agreements. Permit fees vary dramatically based on project scope and local fee schedules, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars for major projects. Contractors should provide accurate fee estimates and clarify whether fees are included in contract prices.

Timeline management includes contractors scheduling permit applications to coordinate with project timelines and avoid delays. Permit approval can take days to months depending on project complexity and local workload, so experienced contractors plan accordingly. Contractors should provide realistic timelines that account for permit approval periods.

Inspection scheduling requires contractors to request required inspections at appropriate project phases and ensure work is ready for inspection when inspectors arrive. Most projects require multiple inspections at different phases, such as rough-in inspections before covering work and final inspections before project completion.

Code compliance responsibility lies with contractors who must ensure all work meets current building codes and passes required inspections. Contractors should understand applicable codes and design work to meet or exceed minimum requirements. Code violations can result in expensive corrections and project delays.

Permit display requirements mandate that approved permits be posted visibly at job sites throughout construction. This allows inspectors and other officials to verify that work is authorized and helps prevent neighbors from filing complaints about unpermitted work.

Documentation maintenance involves contractors keeping complete permit records and providing copies to homeowners upon project completion. These records become important for future renovations, insurance claims, and home sales, making proper documentation crucial for long-term protection.

Violation resolution may be necessary if unpermitted work is discovered or if inspections reveal code violations. Professional contractors should take responsibility for correcting violations and obtaining proper approvals rather than leaving homeowners to resolve permit problems.