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Building Permits & Zoning - Q
& A
| Q: |
How do
building codes work? |
| A: |
Building
codes are established by local authorities to set out minimum
public-safety standards for building design, construction, quality, use
and occupancy, location and maintenance. There are specialized codes for
plumbing, electrical and fire, which usually involve separate
inspections and inspectors.
All buildings must be issued a building permit and a certificate of
occupancy before it can be used. During construction, housing inspectors
must make checks at key points. Codes are usually enforced by denying
permits, occupancy certificates and by imposing fines.
Building codes also cover most remodeling projects. If you are buying
a house that has been significantly remodeled, ask for proof of the
permits involved before you purchase to avoid future liability for
fines.
Resources:
* "The Ultimate Language of Real Estate," John Reilly,
Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1993.
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|
| Q: |
Where do I
get information on remodeling? |
| A: |
Try
these sources:
* National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 4301 N. Fairfax
Drive, Suite 310,Arlington, VA 22203; (703) 575-1100.
* "Rehab a Home With HUD?s 203(K)," published by the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development, 7th and D St., S.W.,
Washington, DC 20410.
* "Cost vs. Value Report," by Remodeling magazine, 1 Thomas
Circle, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005. $8.95 per copy; call
(202) 736-3447 for credit card orders.
* "The Do-able Renewable Home," by the Coordination and
Development Department, American Association of Retired Persons, 601 E
St., N.W., Washington, DC 20049.
|
|
| Q: |
When are
building permits needed? |
| A: |
Building
codes are established by local authorities to set out minimum
public-safety standards for building design, construction, quality, use
and occupancy, location and maintenance. There are specialized codes for
plumbing, electrical and fire, which usually involve separate
inspections and inspectors.
All buildings must be issued a building permit and a certificate of
occupancy before it can be used. During construction, housing inspectors
must make checks at key points. Codes are usually enforced by denying
permits, occupancy certificates and by imposing fines.
Building codes also cover most remodeling projects. If you are buying
a house that has been significantly remodeled, ask for proof of the
permits involved before you purchase to avoid future liability for
fines.
Resources:
* "The Ultimate Language of Real Estate," John Reilly,
Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1993.
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Copyright 1999 Inman News Features
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