01 Jul Overview of Typical Permit Process

Why get a permit?

For most remodeling jobs, pulling a permit is required by code.   Permits are the city/county’s way of assuring, to current and future owners and neighbors, that work being done in a home meets code and safety standards.  Rarely is this a quick process, so some delays of the work may take place. Only Bathrooms, LLC will handle coordinating the permit paperwork and inspection process.    

Often the permits can’t be requested (“pulled”) until construction has begun as access to the structural details aren’t yet available.   We will stay in contact with you about the permit process progress (say that 3 times fast) and will work with the counties to expediate permits and inspections.

Permit Steps.

Obtaining a building permit in Virginia involves several steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the typical process we follow.  (Some steps may change based on city/county project location.)

1. Check Your Jurisdiction: Figure out which local government oversees the project area—like the city or county. This will determine where to apply for the permit.
2. Research Zoning Rules: Make sure the project fits with local zoning laws. These rules cover things like where and how to build on/renovate the property.
3. Prepare Plans: Draw up detailed plans for the project—like blueprints for construction. Include everything they might need to see, from floor plans to electrical layouts.
4. Submit the Application: Visit the local building department: Submit a completed permit application form along with the construction plans. Some jurisdictions allow online submission as well.
5. Pay Fees: There’s usually a fee to apply for the permit. It can vary based on what is being built/renovated so check ahead of time.
6. Wait for Approval: The building department will review the plans. They’ll make sure everything meets safety codes and local laws. Sometimes they might ask for changes.
7. Get Your Permit: Once they approve the plans, they’ll issue a building permit. This document gives the official okay to start construction.
8. Start Building: Post the permit where it’s easy to see at the construction site. Then get to work following the approved plans.
9. Schedule Inspections: Throughout the construction process, we need to schedule inspections at key stages (e.g., foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing) to ensure compliance with the approved plans and building codes.
10. Final Approval: After everything’s finished, schedule a final inspection. If it all checks out, we’ll get the final go-ahead, usually in the form of a Certificate of Occupancy.

Remember, each city or county might have its own specific steps and rules. So, we check with the local building department early on to make sure we have everything covered.