xBefore you begin any repair work on your home’s foundation, you should have a proper understanding of the permits you need. Your local building department probably requires you to obtain a permit before starting any structural repair project. Repairs done with a permit safeguard your home because having the necessary permits ensures that the job is done in compliance with safety standards. Let’s explore foundation repair permits, why they are necessary, and other common questions surrounding foundation repair permits.
Why Permits Are Required for Foundation Repair
Building permits are an important part of planning any construction project. A permit constitutes legal authorization from your local authorities that ensures that all planned construction or repair work adheres to building codes and safety regulations. This process protects your home from damage that could stem from poor-quality work. A permit is non-negotiable for foundation repair because your foundation directly influences the stability of your home. Any compromise in your foundation’s strength can impact your home’s structural integrity. The same protocol applies to all other repair works that affect your building’s structural integrity. For example, any structural solutions, such as roof replacement and load-bearing wall installation, also require permits to ensure structural stability and safety.
What Kind of Foundation Repairs Need a Permit?
The permit requirement for your foundation repair mainly depends on whether the repair affects the load-bearing capacity of the foundation or the stability of your home. If you have had a professional contractor inspect your home, they will tell you whether you need a repair permit. Generally, structural repairs need permits, while most non-structural repairs, such as sealing cracks, can be done without permits.
Structural Repairs
Structural foundation repairs always require a permit because they directly change how your home is supported. These repair solutions are designed to stabilize, reinforce, lift, and level a compromised foundation and involve extensive work. Common examples include beam replacement, underpinning, helical piers installation, concrete slab stabilization, and foundation wall reinforcement. Because these solutions restore your home’s support system, a permit is mandatory to make sure the methods being used are safe and reliable.
Non-Structural Repairs
Non-structural foundation repairs do not require permits because they are mostly considered minor repairs or maintenance. These cosmetic fixes address less serious issues, such as moisture intrusion or improving the appearance of foundation walls. Common repair solutions include carbon fiber straps, crack sealing, epoxy injection, and waterproof paint, which have minimal impact on the structural stability of your foundation.
How Permits Protect Homeowners
Foundation repair permits are not just a formal process; it is a safety protocol that protects homeowners in the following ways:
- Ensures work meets building codes and is inspected: The main purpose of mandating permits in building construction or repair is to ensure adherence to building codes.
- Adds protection for resale: A proper record of the permit proves that your foundation repair was done in compliance with building codes. When you sell your home, buyers and lenders will feel confident about investing in your property, knowing that it is structurally secure.
- Provides liability coverage in case of issues: When you have a permit for your foundation repair, it becomes easier to get liability coverage in case of future damage.
- Protects against fines or legal problems: Completing work without a permit can result in fines. In some cases, you may even be forced to pause the work or undo the construction, which can cause significant financial loss.
Red Flags to Watch For: If Your Contractor Isn’t Getting a Permit
If your contractor is not getting a permit, you may want to question this decision and your hiring choice. When a contractor suggests skipping the permit process, it is an obvious warning sign that the contractor is not the right choice for your project. This usually indicates that they are not licensed or are trying to cut corners by avoiding the permit process. This can result in substandard repair work that fails soon after the repairs are completed. It can also get you in legal trouble. Some potential drawbacks of working with such contractors include legal fines, stop-work orders, compromised structural stability and safety, and reduced property value. Make sure to steer clear of repair contractors who lack transparency and do not comply with regulations.
How Lamunyon Handles Foundation Repair Permits
As a licensed foundation repair contractor, here is how we handle the permit process:
Managing the Permit Process
Our team handles the entire permit application from start to finish. We gather all the necessary information and project details and submit them to the local building department on your behalf for approval.
Ensures Compliance With Local Building Codes
We design our repair process in such a way that it meets all the requirements set forth by local building authorities. Our solutions comply with local building codes, guaranteeing the quality and safety of our repair work.
Provides Peace of Mind With Inspections and Approvals
We carry out regular inspections throughout each project and prepare for any official inspections. This helps us secure final approval and avoid any delays.
Builds Trust by Being Transparent With Homeowners
We prioritize transparency at every step of the way. We clearly outline our permit process, ensuring your peace of mind and trust in us.
Costs and Timeline Considerations
Obtaining permits for foundation repair may cost extra and require additional time for the approval process. The cost and the timeframe depend on the type of your project and how your local authority operates. The fee is typically based on the project’s valuation, ranging from $50 to $1000 or more. While this may seem like an additional step, its cost is minimal when compared to the potential financial loss you may have to bear without a permit.
Contact Lamunyon for Quality Foundation Repair
A foundation repair permit is an essential part of your repair project that ensures compliance and your home’s structural integrity. Permits are usually mandatory for structural repairs. Therefore, when hiring a contractor, make sure they handle the permit process for you so that you don’t have to worry about legal or safety concerns. If you are looking for a trustworthy foundation repair specialist, contact Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair. We are here to help you address your foundation issues with compliance and tailored solutions. Schedule a free inspection today.
