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Building Permit and approval for Partial Completion

1K views 9 replies 5 participants last post by  Nailbags 
#1 ·
Hi All,

I am trying to finish my basement, but I don't have the fund to complete everything at one time. My plan is to finish it in phases. (e.g. phase 1 - framing, electrical, and plumbing, phase 2 - drywall and fixtures, etc.)

Is it possible to apply building permit for phase 1 and get the framing, electrical, and plumbing approved without actually totally complete the basement?

Of course I will have to reapply the permit again when I am ready with phase 2.

Thanks!
 
#4 ·
Thanks for the input Anti-wingnut!

For electrical, I plan to put temporary light fixtures (not decorative ones), electrical outlet, etc.

For plumbing, I will put the pipes to the correct location and cap them without fixtures.

No drywall - that is probably phase 2.
 
#6 ·
renovation

It depends on where you live. It also depends on whether you are doing asll the work yourself or bringing someone else into the picture. The permit is to ensure you or a contractor know what to do ... by code. There is more to plumbing than just running the lines. (proper slope, traps, venting, etc.) Same with electrical. Proper type of wire, number of outlets per run, breaker size, etc. all have to be considered. In my area, the permit is the first thing to get and an extension can be added, if need be. Do it right the first time or it may cause extra cost and headaches.
 
#7 · (Edited)
Thanks for the comment, Mark Harvey!

I live in Prince William County, VA. I am doing it myself and I do know what I am doing.

Can you please clarify what you say below, specifically an "extension"?

the permit is the first thing to get and an extension can be added, if need be.
It is my understanding that a building permit is a 'must' to work on the house. Then, depending on what I am working on, then a permit (e.g. electrical, plumbing, or mechanical) is requested with the building permit.

The problem is that in my county, a current code that govern the bulk head height in Prince William County that states "Beams and girders spaced not less than 4’ (1219mm) on center may project not more than 6” (152mm) below the required ceiling height (i.e. 7')." is changing this coming July where even the bulk head height must be 7'. If this code takes affect, my basement will never be finish able. So, I've been talking to an inspector and his advice is to submit all permit (i.e. building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical) at the same time by July. All permits will expire in 6 months unless there is 'activity'.

So, This changes my plan. This will speed up the schedule. :(
 
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