The start of a commercial building construction project is quite exciting, but it can be overwhelming very quickly. Most business entrepreneurship dwells on design, budget, and schedules without considering legal issues and approvals that can put everything on hold.
Any document that is not submitted or an application that is not completed can cost weeks or even months. Before breaking ground, you should understand the regulatory process, realistic budgeting, and the impact of commercial permits on your project. The better you are prepared initially, the easier it will be to complete your construction.
Understand the Goal Of Your Project
The first thing that you should do before calling contractors or architects is to find out what you are constructing. Is it a store, office, warehouse, or restaurant? Every form of commercial property has a variation of zoning laws, safety regulations, and building inspections.
An unclear project scope will result in design changes in the future, which may cause high costs as well as permit difficulties. Record your square foot requirements, layout requirements, parking requirements, and utility requirements. The more vivid you know your goal is, the easier it will be to be taken through a process by professionals.
Check Zoning and Land Regulations
Not all properties are acceptable in all forms of business. Zoning laws control the nature of commercial activity that is allowed to be carried out in a particular piece of land. Always ensure that the type of business you want to be involved in can exist within that zone before signing a lease or buying any form of property.
The process may be long-winded and unpredictable. Early checking of zoning will save you the hassle of investing in a property that may not be allowed by law to sustain your operations.
Understand Commercial Permits
Most construction, renovation, and structural alterations in Florida require a commercial permit. The Florida commercial permits guarantee compliance of your project against building codes, safety standards, and local regulations.
Collaborating with an expert for commercial permits can save a lot of the ping-pong with the local governments. On your project, you might require:
- Building permits
- Electrical permits
- Plumbing permits
- Mechanical permits
- Fire safety approvals
Hire Qualified Contractors
It is not necessarily the best decision to choose the lowest bid. Certified contractors are familiar with the local protocols, regulations, and documentation procedures. They are also informed on how to make submissions that will qualify as commercial permits.
Request licensing, insurance, and past commercial experience evidence. Residential constructions are simpler, which is why, for commercial construction, hiring the wrong person may lead to failed inspections and expensive rectifications. You get a partner with a qualified contractor to guide you through the regulations and ensure the project is still within the compliance levels.
Estimate More Than Building Costs
The costs of construction are not the only aspect of the financial picture. Florida commercial permits are usually provided with a certain fee system in accordance with the project size and scope. Not budgeting these costs may lead to a budget strain in the middle of the project.
You should also account for:
- Permit fees
- Impact fees
- Inspection costs
- Utility connection charges
- Engineering and architectural services
