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Frequently Asked Questions

Owning Your Home - Q & A
Building Permits & Zoning

Q: How do building codes work?

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.

Resources: * "The Ultimate Language of Real Estate," John Reilly, Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1993.

Q: Where do I get information on remodeling?

A: Try these sources:

• National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 4301 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 310,Arlington, VA 22203; (703) 575-1100.
• "Rehab a Home With HUD?s 203(K)," published by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 7th and D St., S.W., Washington, DC 20410.
• "Cost vs. Value Report," by Remodeling magazine, 1 Thomas Circle, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005. $8.95 per copy; call (202) 736-3447 for credit card orders.
• "The Doable Renewable Home," by the Coordination and Development Department, American Association of Retired Persons, 601 E St., N.W., Washington, DC 20049.

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.

Resources: * "The Ultimate Language of Real Estate," John Reilly, Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1993.