Thinking of Remodeling? Wondering where to begin?

Remodeling professionals are now seeing their workloads soar.  The top two reasons for the increase as listed by National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) are 1) postponed projects are coming to fruition and 2) the improvement of home prices.

So you’re thinking of remodeling, but don’t know where to start?  If your improvements are more than just superficial, like new flooring and paint, determine if a permit will be required.  It’s actually pretty easy to go to your local city permitting office, give them your address and ask if a permit will be required for what you want remodeled.  You can go online to your city’s government web site beforehand to review the process.   To really feel comfortable with what’s required, have a Florida licensed Contractor, Architect or Interior Designer come out to tell you which portions of your project will require a permit.

It’s important to understand the reasons to obtain a permit before commencing work.

Your home or business is an investment. If your construction project does not comply with the codes adopted by your community, the value of your investment could be reduced.

Property insurers may not cover work or damages caused by work done without permits and inspections.

If you decide to sell a home or building that has had modifications without a permit, you may be required to tear down the addition, leave it unoccupied or do costly repairs.

Your permit allows the code official to reduce potential hazards of unsafe construction to provide for public health, safety and welfare. By following code guidelines, your completed project will meet minimum standards of safety and will be less likely to cause injury to you, your family, and your friends or future owners. Mandatory inspections complement the contractor’s experience and act as a system of checks and balances resulting in a safer project.

Last but not least, it’s the law.  Work requiring permits are made such by City Ordinance.

Let’s walk through how a project might go.  I’ll use an example of an interior renovation I worked on recently.  I was hired on an hourly basis to come up with an overall design.  In this case I helped the client estimate the remodeling costs so they could determine what they can really do.  I also referred them to an experienced architect who can sign and seal the drawings.  I drew a floor plan noting walls to be modified, locations of new cabinetry and appliances, new flooring, paint and replacement of doors and windows.  Next, the architect reviewed my drawings, added any required details and signed & sealed the drawings.  The contractor took the drawing set to the permitting office for permit.  This is a simplified version of the process, but points out the key points.

One’s home or office is where one spends a huge amount of time.  It should represent who you are so don’t be afraid to bite the bullet and start the process of making your interior better.  Just take it step-by-step.  Call a professional today!

Helpful web sites:
http://www.stpete.org
http://www.tampagov.net/dept_Construction_Services
http://www.myclearwater.com/gov/depts/
http://www.largo.com/department/
http://www.myseminole.com/building
http://www.nari.org