In a previous article, we discussed the things you need to do before the actual planning can take place. This includes clearly defining your goals for the home addition project and considering what type of home addition you’d like to pursue. After these steps, you’ll likely have a better idea of what exactly you want to achieve with your home addition. But before you can start the actual project, there are additional steps you need to take to ensure the project goes well.
Check in with Your Local Zoning Department
Zoning regulations can vary greatly from one municipality to the next, so it’s important to find out what the rules are in your area before you start making any plans. The last thing you want is to invest time and money into a project only to find out that it doesn’t meet the requirements for your zoning district.
The first step is to find out what zoning district your property is in. You can usually find this information on your property tax bill or by doing a search on your municipality’s website. Once you know what district you’re in, you can look up the specific regulations for that district.
Most zoning ordinances will have regulations about things like lot size, building height, and setbacks. You’ll need to ensure your proposed addition meets all of the requirements for your zoning district.
If you have any questions about the regulations, be sure to ask someone at the zoning department. They should be able to help you interpret the ordinance and make sure that your plans comply.
Consult a Reputable Contractor
Adding on to your home is a big undertaking, and you want to be sure that you are prepared for every step of the process. One of the most important things you can do is consult with a reputable contractor. A qualified contractor will be able to help you create a plan that meets your needs and budget, and they will be able to oversee the construction process to ensure that everything goes according to plan.
There are a few things you should keep in mind when you are looking for a contractor. First, you will want to make sure that they are licensed and insured. This will protect you in the event that something goes wrong during the construction process. Second, you will want to ask for references from previous clients. This will give you an idea of the quality of work that the contractor is capable of. Finally, you will want to get a written estimate from the contractor before you begin the project. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs down the road.
Once you have found a reputable contractor, you will be able to move forward with confidence, knowing that your home addition is in good hands.
Accomplish All Necessary Permits and Paperwork
In order to complete a home addition, you must obtain permits from your local building department and, in some cases, additional permits from other state and federal agencies. Depending on the scope of your project, the process of obtaining permits can be complex and time-consuming.
You may need to obtain a variety of different permits or approvals. These can include but are not limited to building permits, electrical permits, plumbing permits, mechanical permits, and any additional permits or clearances required by other governmental agencies.
Once you have identified the permits and paperwork needed for your project, the next step is to apply for them. This can be done in person, online, or by mail, depending on the requirements of your local building department. You will need to provide detailed information about your project, such as plans and drawings, as well as proof of ownership of the property. It’s also important to note that there may be fees associated with obtaining permits and paperwork.
Final Thoughts
Planning a home addition can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By taking into account all of the necessary steps, such as checking in with the local zoning department, consulting with a reputable contractor, and accomplishing the necessary permits, homeowners can ensure that their home addition will be a success.
Plan your home addition with the help of Terra Inc. Construction. We are an El Dorado County-based building contractor – constructing fine residential homes, additions, and remodeling projects. As a home remodeling contractor, we guarantee our quality and workmanship. Get a free consultation now!
