Building permits. They strike fear into many a builder, renovator and developer. They’re a necessary step to meet regulations but all too often we see them become the hurdle that seems to grow in stature for a project. No one wants to add time and money to their build so let’s do it right…from the very start. Here are our seven steps to getting your building permit processed… painlessly!
Find out what building permit or planning permit you will need
We understand that the exciting parts are getting into a design vision, floorplans and product selections for your build. However, knowing where you stand on what’s permitted for your site and whether your initial concepts are within the parameters of the planning scheme is essential. We recommend engaging us early in your project plans to perform the due diligence to ensure you have the lay of the land and the possibilities for your vision.
Consider the cost of the pre-construction permit process
When you’re planning your build budget, you need to consider more than just the construction costs. The first expenses will actually be in pre-construction and that includes reports, documentation and applications. If a planning permit is required, then that needs to be budgeted for in terms of both time and money. Be across it early to avoid budget blowouts and the pain of delays.
Design a build that will meet Tasmanian building regulations
It might sound obvious but in the excitement of designing it can be easy to push the envelope too far or lose sight of the parameters a build must meet for your site. There’s an advantage to having designers and engineers sitting next to each other as they work on your plans, as we do here at HED Consulting. They each bring creativity and problem-solving to every angle and challenge whilst knowing the regulations across Tasmania. An experienced, multi-disciplinary team like HED can anticipate any hurdles, which often means we hit the goal of achieving permits painlessly.
Do the necessary engineering reports early
In step one above we can advise if your project will need soil reports, energy reports, bushfire hazard reporting or civil engineering. If you want a painless permit process without unnecessary delays and surprise costs, then preparing these reports early is our recommended strategy.
Prepare your building permit documentation correctly
There are a lot of details that are required for permit applications, from the construction drawings to the administrative paperwork. Our aim is to cover every possible question that may be asked for a painless permit application with minimal RFI’s from your council (requests for further information). Our expert knowledge and experience mean we can often anticipate what may be needed and stay ahead of it.
Deal with the RFI’s (requests for more information) promptly and accurately
At HED we take the mindset that RFI’s can be a good thing! We see them as part of the conversation and an opportunity for the council, TasWater or the surveyor to tell us what they need to get your project moving. When a long list of questions comes back from the council in regard to your permit application, it is understandably overwhelming. The key is not to panic or feel defeated but to work through the requests systematically. In this rapidly changing world, we’ve seen most of it before and love to put on our problem-solving hats to give clients back control. Our best tip for dealing with RFI’s is to take time to read them carefully, avoid making assumptions and engage a professional, where needed.
Process your building permit the easy way with experts
Whether it’s your first build project or your 100th, it pays to let pre-construction experts deal with the necessary step which is building and planning permits. No two permit applications are the same so it’s a hard step to learn as you go. Get it wrong and the delays and costs can become insurmountable. When you get it right, it means you’re in control from the start and can swiftly move into the exciting part of the construction- bringing your design vision to life.
At HED Consulting we are the rare breed of engineers and designers who thrive when we’re deep in the pre-construction permit process. When you get that approval stamp on your project, it’s a green light for Tassie construction that makes our work worthwhile. Speak to us today to get ahead of your next project and process that permit painlessly with our team in your corner.
Contact in**@****************om.au or call 03 6146 0334
