Why Do I Need A Building Permit?

August 24, 2022

Building permits ensure that newly constructed buildings adhere to the minimum safety standards, which are established for the protection of the building occupants. Official inspectors will inspect the building, during construction, and after, to ensure the standards are being met. A building permit is required before any new construction, repair, addition or alterations can begin. It is also required for demolition projects.

Do I Need To Hire A Professional Architect Or Engineer?
If your project is for a single-family home renovation, and you are the owner-occupant, architects and engineers are not needed, you can even prepare your own drawings.For all other permit applications that require plans or drawings, they must be prepared by a licensed architect or structural engineer. Some projects require a licensed professional to complete the work and to apply for a permit. In all cases, the project must comply with the Chicago Building Code or other Municipal Codes.

Do I Need To Hire A General Contractor?
Individuals that are owner-occupant of a single-family home or a residential building with less than 4 stories can be their own general contractor. You will need to sign the Certification of Responsibility for any carpentry or HVAC services. This certifies that you take responsibility for meeting the building codes and regulations and for correcting anything that does not meet the codes.

Licensed contractors are needed for all masonry, plumbing and electrical work, however the owner-occupier can complete this work after completing the appropriate part of the permit. Your building will be checked in case it has any building code violations or stop work orders on it, before your application is considered.