When constructing a new house or undergoing a remodel, a set of construction documents must be processed by the local building department before work begins—unless the work was done without a permit. These historical documents are known as "building permit records."
Typically, these records are available for projects completed within the last ten years, although older records may also be accessible depending on local policies. For instance, Florida requires a minimum of ten years of records retention.
Consulting with a permit expediter like Tew & Taylor can help you navigate and obtain these records efficiently.
Availability of Building Permit Records
Some building departments have exceptional documentation. For example, in the Town of Palm Beach, records are well-maintained even for buildings constructed in the 1960s, the early days of the local building department.
While many older archives are kept on microfilm, today's technology allows for much more accurate and accessible records. As building departments increasingly process permits electronically, the span and accuracy of their archives are improving.
A permit expediter can assist in accessing these records, ensuring that you get the most accurate and relevant information for your project.
Accessing Building Permit Records
Building departments are government agencies and must adhere to public records request procedures.
In Florida, our corporate office state, these procedures are governed by the Sunshine Law, which mandates government transparency.
This law ensures that governmental procedures and records, including approved construction drawings and specifications, are accessible to the public. Other states have similar laws to facilitate access to these records.
Why Building Permit Records Matter
If you're planning a remodel on your recently acquired home, start by requesting available records from the building department. This provides a baseline for your project and helps verify if any work was previously done without a permit.
Discrepancies between the records and the actual building can indicate unpermitted work, which the new owner must bring into compliance. This situation is quite common, and having the proper records can save you from unexpected responsibilities.
A permit expediter can help you analyze these records and identify any potential issues before they become costly problems.
We hope this information is helpful. If you have additional questions about building codes, permit expediting services, or the construction process, feel free to contact us today. Follow our blog for more insights and share this information with others who might benefit from it!
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