Tag: permits

How to Deal With Unpermitted Renovations

When you are buying a home, it’s important to determine whether any renovations or remodeling projects were properly permitted. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to undertake such work without the required permits and government inspections. A professional home inspector will be able to evaluate this as well as the quality of the job, but you… Read more »

Don’t Try This At Home: Dangerous and Illegal DIY Projects

Home service contractors joke that they charge more to correct botched work a homeowner has attempted than to do the job themselves in the first place. But there are some DIY projects where shoddy work is no laughing matter. Instead, it may be dangerous and illegal. If you are not trained and licensed, do not… Read more »

Do You Need a Structural Engineer When You Buy a House?

Structural engineers assist homebuilders in making sure residences are strongly and safely designed and constructed. They are trained to determine how forces such as gravity, wind, temperature and shifting soil affect buildings. You expect to hire an inspector or perhaps other pros when you buy a house, but do you need to hire a structural… Read more »

What Prospective Home Buyers Need to Know About Septic Systems

Don’t let a home’s septic system talk you out of making an offer. But it is important to proceed with caution and make certain all your questions are answered before signing a contract to purchase. Septic systems are commonplace. On average, nearly a quarter of the population relies on a septic system as opposed to… Read more »

Taking the Mystery out of Codes and Permits

When it comes to home construction projects — large or small — homeowners are likely to encounter what may seem like a labyrinth of permits and inspections. Don’t be intimidated. Follow these guidelines to demystify the permitting process so you can enjoy your new project rather than fret about the red tape. The basics. Building… Read more »