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Do we really need a Building Permit?

• Roberta Diachok Oct 20, 2020
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As an Interior Designer, I hear it time and time again…

"What? A building permit! Do we really need one? But it costs so much money!"

The simple answer is yes, you really do need one, but not for the reasons you may think.

The main reason for a building permit is not a money grab or a way to keep people employed. The real reason is to protect the public. To protect us in the event of a terrible catastrophe where there might be a fire or disaster. This is such an important issue that seems to be frequently overlooked.

On average each month I typically hear one or two stories about those who do not want to start the process of obtaining a building permit. As a Registered Interior Designer of ARIDO, a Building Qualified Interior Designer and Project Management Professional (PMP), I must uphold the integrity of the regulations created to ensure the safety of the public.

And I we do this by ensuring my clients and the public is aware that there is a process in place established by the provincial government which I must follow. As to the cost, there is a small fee, consultant costs, and some guidelines regarding a Permit Submission that your local Registered Interior Designer can help you follow.

Here is an easy Three-Step Guide to get you started in obtaining your building permit for your corporate premise, a back to base building landlord project, or when renovating your home:

1. Hire an Expert

A Registered Interior Designer can make this frustrating experience a breeze for you. They can provide you with information on upfront costs for the creation of the drawings required, confirm if engineering drawings are needed, advise on consulting fees, when an architect may need to be engaged, will follow up with the City to ensure the timelines are staying on track and advise on the permit costs. The money and time spend doing this early will save on potential insurance claims and will protect you or your employees later.

2. Apply & Wait

The Registered Interior Designer will apply for permit on your behalf ensuring all the proper paperwork is completed, will answer the city’s questions and after four (4) weeks for a typical Corporate Interior Retrofit project. Et Voila! You have the City’s approval to start construction! (Occasionally, we may experience longer wait times than normal but a Registered Interior Designer can advise you of potential delays in the process, especially if they have experienced them recently.)

3. Permit Received & Safety Established

Once the city provides the Building Permit, a Contractor with a WSIB & Insurance in place can begin construction, in collaboration with your prime consultant, your Interior Designer.

I look forward to continuing to see that safety is top of mind for everyday corporate, landlords, and homeowner decisions.