We are of course a concrete finishing company, but because finishing concrete can be a part of construction jobs, we thought we’d review the process and types of permits needed to finish basements. Let’s start by going over the four types of permits that might be required depending on the type of job and how complex it is. (For popular basement uses click here.)
Building permit: A building permit is needed for architectural and structural construction
Electrical permit: An electrical permit is needed for electrical installations
Mechanical permit: A mechanical permit is needed for any heating or air conditioning elements to be installed besides ductwork.
Plumbing permit: A plumbing permit is needed for installation of any elements or appliances that have to do with plumbing and gas piping systems.
Contact your local building department for more detailed information about the fees for building permits. Once a building permit has been issued, the separate permits for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical can be issued. These permits will have additional fees based on the equipment listed on the applications for the permits. (For more information on finishing basements click here.)
The Process: The process really varies depending on the city and state that you live in, but we will go over some common guidelines that may be encountered. Typically, on renovations of basements it is critical to clarify the existing and new construction either graphically or by notation on the building construction plan. This can be done by labeling the different spaces or rooms in the basement with new and existing walls or partitions indicated. If a room could be easily converted into a bedroom the room will usually be carefully reviewed for bedroom requirements, this will most likely happen even if the room is not identified as a bedroom on the drawing.
Once the drawings are completed and submitted with the building permit application the review will begin. A permit number and plan tracking number are typically assigned once the permit application and drawings have been logged in. The building permit application will be returned to the applicant and the applicant will need to get signatures of approval from the corresponding offices required for the permit to be issued. There are usually signature lines next to the corresponding departments for the required signatures on the building permit application.
Once the building permit has been issued, the separate permits for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical can be issued. These additional permits typically don’t need to undergo a review process like the building permit application does. They can be obtained by a licensed contractor or the homeowner. At the time of inspection is when the code compliance is determined. It is the responsibility of the applicant to look into requirements from other agencies or jurisdictions regarding what could be impacted by the basement remodel proposal. It is suggested to contact the local agencies to check for this information, i.e. fire department, sewer district, subdivision trustees, municipality, etc. (To see sample code requirements for finished basements click here.)
There are so many creative and custom options for finishing concrete, but first and foremost important is the concrete itself. At Custom Concrete Creations we have state of the art equipment and a properly trained team with years of experience. Custom Concrete Creations is a premier contractor serving the Omaha area as well at the Midwest. Give us a call or send us an email for your custom concrete finishing needs today!