In the United States, it feels like you need a permit for everything. Some permits can be easy to obtain, while others can be a little trickier. One type of permit that many people struggle with is building permits. To obtain one, you need to have knowledge of building codes, and experience in construction.

You don’t have to go through the building permit application process alone, however. There are agencies you can turn to for support, as well as things you can do to increase your chances of being accepted. This post explores eight tips you can use for navigating the permit process. 

Hire Professional Support

The first thing you should know is that you don’t have to navigate the process alone. It is entirely possible to outsource to a permit expediter in Orlando or any other city or state in the country. A permit expediter can work with you to ensure your permit application is professionally written and includes all necessary and relevant information. 

More than that, a permit expediter can leverage their experience and knowledge to reinforce your application and make it more likely to be accepted. If the authority you are applying to sees you have an expert behind you to support you with your application and broader project, they are much more likely to accept you than if you were applying on your own. Find the most experienced expediter you can, which you can do by reading reviews and asking for recommendations. 

Research Local Requirements

If you are going to apply on your own, as in without a professional’s support, the first thing you need to do is research local requirements. Find out what local regulations and zoning laws are, so your application doesn’t conflict with them. You also need to identify the specific type of permit that you need, since there are many different types of building permits. Applying for the wrong one can lead to limitations being imposed on your project. 

As well as researching the different types of permits, make sure you look at their corresponding costs. The permit you apply for needs to be affordable. You can find out how much permits cost with relative ease. The price is usually mentioned in the application form. If you have any doubts, queries, or concerns, get in touch with the local planning office, and they will be able to answer questions for you. 

Prepare Your Documents

Make sure that you prepare all site documents and blueprints, so you are able to answer any questions your local planning or permit office has for you. They will likely send somebody to meet with you, and if you are unable to answer their questions, they will probably reject your application. An expediter will work with you to make sure your documents are in the best place possible, so hire one if you are struggling to organize everything yourself. 

As well as gathering documents, make sure they meet all building codes. If there are differences in your documents and the local building codes, your application will probably be rejected. You can hire an architect or an engineer to help you with the formulation of documents and general project planning. 

Hire Other Professionals

As stated in the previous section, making sure your documents conform to local building regulations and codes is absolutely essential. If your documents do not, acceptance is unlikely. Expediting services aren’t the only professionals you should consider working with–you may also want to hire an architect, engineer, and a contractor. 

When you are looking for professionals to hire to support you with your project, you need to prioritize quality above everything else. Make sure the professionals you hire are the best of the best, which you can do by only working with those that have five-star ratings on Google Review and Trustpilot. You can also ask other local building firms or developers for recommendations.

Submit Your Application

Before you submit your application, you need to make sure that everything is correct. Don’t submit an incomplete application. An incomplete application could have a negative impact on your chances of success, even if you get in touch and let them know you have made mistakes and would like to amend them. In all likelihood, any mistakes made will lead to rejection, which means you will have to redo your application. 

When you submit your application, you must ensure all fees are paid. If you do not pay fees at the time you submit your application, it will probably be denied. Follow the payment instructions given on the application.

Communicate with the Planning Office

As stated above, if you have any queries or concerns, you should communicate with the planning or permit office. They will be able to help answer any questions you have, and effectively address problems you are experiencing with your application.

If you do not feel confident getting in touch and asking the planning office questions, you could always ask the expediter you hire to do it for you. They may even be able to answer questions themselves, saving you the hassle of getting in touch with the planning office and showing your inexperience. 

Prepare for Site Inspections

Site inspections are unavoidable. The planning or permit office will send somebody to the site to make sure your project is viable. If you do not prepare for site inspections, however, there is a chance your site could look like it isn’t ready, which could delay things.

The last thing you want is to look unprepared. An expediter will be able to advise you on the condition your site should be in, as well as what you need to do and say at the time of your first inspection.

Expect Some Delays

Finally, make sure to factor delays into your project. The process of applying for a permit can be long and drawn out. There is no guarantee that you will get your permit right away. You might have to wait weeks or even months.

One of the main benefits of hiring an expediter is that they can expedite the process, ensuring you get your permits fast. By hiring an expediter, you don’t have to worry about unnecessary delays, and you can get to work as soon as possible. 

The permit process can be long and drawn out. If you are interested in applying for one, definitely get in touch with an expediter. An expediter can hasten your permit’s acceptance and advise you on other areas of your project. Use the guidance given above to find the right expediter for you.