Permitting Pitfalls

In today’s economic climate getting a permit can be as much of a challenge as getting the Job. Permitting authorities are facing unprecedented cuts to their operating budgets. This is due to several reasons such as the reduction of revenue caused by the drop in taxable real-estate value. The forecast does not look good for these authorities as economists continue to see slow growth in real-estate values. The authorities have cut staff to the bone. In some cases I see only one plan reviewer where their used to be 2 or more. This is leading to extended review times. Some authorities are offering expedited services at a premium added cost. However as these programs become popular review times will extend further even with a so-called expedited permit application.

So what are our options? Private provider can be a good option but it will add cost to the project. Depending on your timeframe and budget most clients will prefer to avoid these extra costs. Another option is through pre-construction drawing review; this requires a managed approach but will cut down on review comments. Pre-submittal meetings with the individual authorities, getting the design professionals in the room with the plan reviewers will greatly reduce review time and plan re-submittal. These options won’t work for every job but being ready for the obstacles ahead can reduce your frustration and the frustration of the client. Make sure you communicate with your permitting authority well in advance of plan submittal review, times can change daily.

At Hennessy I track our permits and follow them through plan review. Over the years I have become familiar with the staff and how each municipality works. This does reduce the amount of time a set of plans sits waiting to be reviewed. Because of my familiarity with their process I can help guide plans through review and reduce delays in revisions. Knowing your way around goes a long way in navigating a project through the current difficulties.

Recently Hennessy did some renovation work for the St. Pete Free Clinic Beacon House Men’s Dorm. This was a difficult project to permit with no budget being a nonprofit. The project had been in limbo for nearly a year before we were asked to help. Because of my relationship with the City and working closely with the designers we were able to overcome the obstacles’ preventing the project from being permitted. Within a short amount of time we were able to secure the permit and begin the much needed renovation.

We at Hennessy take great pride in helping our clients and design partners overcome challenges with their projects. We always work hard to insure a quality and timely project for our clients.

By John Poloney

Project Engineer 12 years with Hennessy