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.
Q:
Where
do I get information on remodeling?
A:
Try these sources:
* National Association of the Remodeling Industry,
780 Lee St., Ste 200, Dex Plaines, IL 60016; (800)
611-6274; nari.org.
* "Rehab a Home With HUD?s 203(K),"
published by the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development, 451 7th St., Washington, DC
20410; call (202) 708-1112; hud.gov.
* "Cost vs. Value Report," by Remodeling
magazine, 1 Thomas Circle, N.W., Suite 600, Washington,
DC 20005; remodeling.hw.net. $8.95 per copy; call
(202) 736-3447 for credit card orders.
* "The Do-able Renewable Home," a booklet
published by the American Association of Retired
Persons, available online at homemods.org.
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.
Copyright
2006 Inman News Features
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