Step 18: Building Permits

A building permit is an official approval issued by the local government agency (City of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting “DPP”) that allows you or your contractor to proceed with a construction or remodeling project on your property. It is intended to ensure that the project plans to comply with local standards for land use, zoning, and construction. These standards are intended to ensure the safety of current and future owners and occupants and to provide enforcement of zoning and land-use policies.

http://www.honoluludpp.org/

Specific issues that the building permit process may address include structural integrity of the framing work, zoning, sanitation, water, and sewer lines, fire protection, and electrical service. 

Buildings are Required for: 

1. To erect, construct, alter, remove, or demolish any building or structure (including fences, retaining walls, and swimming pools).
2. For any electrical work over $500 (Sec. 18-1), or plumbing work over $1,000 (Sec. 18-31.1(b). All work shall be performed by licensed electrical/plumbing contractors. 
3. To construct or alter any sidewalk, curb, or driveway in public rights-of-way. 
4. A sign permit is required to install, construct, alter, relocate, or reconstruct any sign. A temporary permit is required to erect any tent or similar structure to be used for religious or commercial purposes, such as rallies, festivals, or carnivals. 

Due to the requirements for permits, the below disclosure is 

Building Permit Disclosure. “Buyer and/or Buyer’s contractor, architect, or other expert(s) are advised to review, among other things, the Property’s building permit file, which may indicate whether structural modifications, additions, and/or other items modified and/or changed were done with properly issued permits and if these building permits were inspected and signed by the appropriate county officials. Buyer understands that the Brokers are not qualified to give opinions on these matters, including, but not limited to, proper examination and analysis of the permit file contents.”

Previous, Step 17: Seller's Disclosure Statement

Next, Step 19: Additional Research

Steps to Buying a Home

HAWAII STARTS HERE | JOE CASTANEDA (R)

Joe is a realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty. He majored in finance and has experience as a former mortgage loan originator. He has helped buyers both with new project loans and going through the process of applying and obtaining units in new projects. He uses his finance, mortgage, and real estate knowledge to help home buyers find the right properties to fit their needs. Contact Joe by phone or email at (808) 351-8394 or JoeC@BetterHawaii.com.