Episode 105: WHEN Your Permit Gets Stuck
Summary
If you are doing any kind of improvement work at one of your properties, there is a chance you need a permit. The larger the improvement, the bigger the chance you need a permit. But what kind of permit? And what happens when that permit gets stuck in review? In today's episode I discuss the painful silence, waiting for a building permit to get approved, and no updates for a long time. How do you know where it is stuck? How do you get it unstuck and ultimately, how do you get your permit approved? I share some of my tricks of the trade to getting permits to approval.
Listen to full episode :
This Week’s Blog Post:
Introduction to Permit Delays
Hello, I'm Dr. Jennifer Salisbury, and welcome back to "My Life As A Landlord." Today, we dive into a common but frustrating issue for landlords and property developers: permit delays. Whether you're in the U.S. or Canada, navigating the permit process can be daunting, especially when your permit gets stuck. This episode focuses on understanding the intricacies of permit delays, including identifying the type of permits affected, diagnosing the causes of delays, and exploring strategies to manage and mitigate these setbacks.
Understanding Permit Statistics and Costs
First, let's look at some statistics that shed light on the scope of building permits. In the U.S., for instance, over 1.4 million building permits were issued in September 2024 alone, despite a decline from previous months. The process varies significantly by location, with the average time to obtain a building permit ranging from two weeks nationally to over a year in places like Honolulu. The costs also vary, with fees ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the complexity and location of the project.
The Permitting Process and Where Things Can Go Wrong
Permitting can get complicated depending on where your property is located. In U.S. cities like Honolulu and San Francisco, and in Canadian territories, the wait times can be extensive due to various factors including bureaucratic inefficiencies and high demand. Identifying where your permit is stuck is crucial. It could be with specific departments like zoning, environmental control, or public health. Understanding the hold-up allows you to address the specific issues, whether they involve additional documentation or correcting application errors.
Strategies to Manage and Expedite Permit Approvals
Navigating permit delays requires patience and a strategic approach. Here are some tips to manage and potentially expedite the process:
Stay informed about the specific requirements and timelines in your locality.
Maintain regular communication with permit offices and ensure all your documents are accurate and complete.
Utilize online systems to track your permit status and follow up promptly on any requests for additional information or corrections.
Consider hiring a permit expediter or consultant if you're dealing with complex or multiple permits.
Taking Action When Permits are Delayed
When faced with a stuck permit, proactive measures can make a difference. If your permit seems to be in limbo, reaching out directly to the relevant department can help clarify the status and what’s needed to move forward. It’s also beneficial to visit the permitting office in person if possible. Such direct engagement often prompts quicker responses and can help push your permit through the final stages of approval.
Conclusion
Dealing with building permits is a challenging aspect of property development and management, but it's crucial for legal compliance and the success of your projects. By understanding the permit process, staying proactive in communication, and strategically navigating delays, you can reduce the impact on your projects and keep them moving forward. Remember, every day your permit is stuck is a day lost in potential earnings or project progress, so take charge and be persistent.
Thanks for tuning in, and I hope this episode provides you with the insights and tools needed to effectively manage permit delays. Join us next time on "My Life As A Landlord" for more tips and stories from the world of real estate and landlordship.