Construction Laws That You Should Know Before Building a House

No matter the state or city where you plan to build a home, there are various construction laws and regulations that must be observed for success. While those laws may vary from one state or city to another, they are all aimed at making sure that the construction process and house are safe for both the workers, occupants, and the public. Nevertheless, the following are the key construction laws that you should know before building a house. 

Lot Approval 

The fact that you own the land does not mean you can use it in any way you desire. Before construction, check the assessor’s parcel number (APN) of the land and make sure that the lot is approved for building houses. You should only proceed with constructing a house on the lot if it is an approved building site. 

Zoning Laws 

Zoning laws mainly relate to how the land can be used and, the types of buildings allowed on the lot. Check with the local zoning office about any regulations or restrictions that would hinder you from putting up a house on the desired land. You should also get the zoning permissions before commencing construction. 

Building Codes 

Building codes cover the physical structures erected on the land and their features. Similar to other countries, the building codes for the U.S rely on the standard International Building Code. Some of the codes relate to fire prevention while others also cover aspects like plumbing and electrical installations. 

Building Permits 

A building permit is a necessity for house construction and, you must submit all the house plans to the local authorities for approval before any work can begin on the site. Your contractor should be the right person to get the building permits based on the expected construction activities. 

Overall, there are various laws for home construction that you should be familiar with before building a house. However, lot approval, building codes, building permits, zoning laws, and local ordinances are the main construction laws that can significantly affect your project. 

Reasons to Finish Basement Construction

Unfinished basements not only give the home a bad impression but, could also pose safety risks. They are usually dark and dingy with somewhat rough surfaces. In case the basement of your home is not finished at the time of occupancy, completing it would be a great idea. The following are some of the reasons why you should consider finishing the construction of your business. 

Offers Additional Living Space 

If you have young adults at home, they will no doubt need some extra space to hang out. Besides, you may also want some extra space outside the living room to unwind. You could even decide to turn the space into your home gym. For those who love exquisite entertainment, you could also turn the basement into a theater. Finishing the basement construction can provide the additional living space to meet all those needs. 

Adds Value to Your Home 

Finishing the construction of your home’s basement will go a long way in improving its physical appeal and overall value. It is an investment with great returns that you will realize sooner or later. If you are planning to sell the property sometime later, finishing the basement could be an incredible option to attract a top dollar on the home. 

A 2017 survey showed that homeowners who invested in new basement constructions recovered up to 70% of the costs at the time of resale. Upon the completion of your home basement, you can also opt to rent it out to a tenant for some extra income. 

Options for Home Remodeling

Finishing your basement also offers you alternatives for remodeling the home to your needs and lifestyle. You can always design and furnish the spaces to bring out the desired appeal for your home. Depending on your needs, you can remodel the basement into an indoor workout station or recreational space. 

Indeed, there is so much more than you can still achieve by finishing your home basement construction. Whenever you are ready to begin the construction, be sure to find a professional construction company for the job.  While writing this article I found another article which was well written. Check it out here.

Preventing Basement Leaks- Tips from Professional Builders

Basement leaks are common structural faults experienced in many homes today. Leakages can occur along the walls and joints or from underground. Without immediate and proper solutions, basement leaks can impact severe water damage to the foundation and home. The following are some of the best tips on how to prevent basement leaks. 

Waterproof the Exterior Walls 

Applying water-proofing to the external walls of the foundation will help to prevent cracks that may develop after construction. 

Place Plastic under the Concrete Slab 

Commonly known as visqueen, placing plastic sheets under the concrete slab will ensure that moisture does not seep into the foundation. 

Install a Drainage Board / Insulation on the Exterior Basement Walls 

An insulation or drainage board serves two purposes. First, it helps with preventing ground-water from getting trapped against the foundation walls. Besides, it also offers R-value to concrete and block foundation walls. 

Silicone the Joints of the Basement Walls 

If your basement is built with concrete, applying silicone along the joints will prevent gas from seeping into the floors from underground. 

Install Internal and External Drain Tiles Linked with Bleeders 

Bleeders are pipes that pass across the footing, connecting the internal and external drains. The benefit of having a bleeder is that it will allow water to bypass any obstructed pipes, thereby preventing water damage to the basement. 

Pass a Diagonal Corrugated Pipe under the Basement Floor 

This option is only suitable for larger basement foundations. Running a diagonal corrugated pipe under the floor, linked to the sump crock will help to prevent leaks that occur whenever the water table rises. The pipe will collect the water under the basement and allow it to flow into the sump crock. 

Do not wait until your basement starts to leak to begin looking for ways on how to mitigate the issues. The tips discussed above can help you to prevent the problems and preserve the integrity of your home over time. 

What to Look for in a Home Building Contract

So, you’ve decided it’s time to bring your home ownership dream to life. You’ve chosen your home design and layout and have an experienced contractor ready to start the work. The last thing you need to handle is signing the construction contract so the work can begin. No one seems to enjoy spending hours reading the fine print in those long, boring documents. Don’t make the mistake of signing a home building contract before you review every detail and understand what’s contained in the contract. Here are the important provisions in a home building contract. 

The Scope of Work

A construction contract is important as it reflects the understanding between you and the contractor, ensuring that all your needs are met even as the contractor gets paid for the job. Your contract should, therefore, describe in detail the work the contractor is expected to and have agreed perform. Ensuring this is written will prevent any confusion or misunderstanding during the construction process. The contractor’s work often includes complying with all existing project plans and building codes, obtaining permits, and furnishing the labor and materials. 

“Time is of the Essence” Clause

It’s important that you protect yourself against your building project going off schedule. The only way to do so is to ensure your home building contract clearly states the commencement date, the schedule of work that must be followed, and the target completion date. Unforeseen circumstances such as labor strikes, poor weather, inspection delays and other issues can affect the schedule in some cases. This may warrant an extension of time but the contractor should have a clear plan on how to keep project on schedule. 

Payment Terms

Your contract must clearly state the progress payment method and schedule to avoid building disputes following disagreements with payments. How much, when, and how will you pay your contractor? There needs to be a steady stream of money to the contractor so they can build your home in a timely manner, without interruptions. 

Termination Clause

Don’t assume that everything will play out well. Either of the contractual parties may feel the need to discontinue or rather end their obligations under the agreement. But they have to do it by mutual consent. The contract should have a termination clause, therefore. 

Dispute Resolution Clause

No matter how friendly a contractor may seem or how careful the contractual parties are in drafting the contract, disputes may arise. You don’t want to end up in court every time there’s a small dispute. This clause should state the dispute resolution methods the parties may use in case of a conflict. Whether litigation, arbitration, adjudication, or meditation, make sure a dispute resolution clause is incorporated in your contract. 

Changes to Scope of Work

At times the permitting authorities may require that some changes be made in the scope of work after the construction has begun. You may also decide to make some chances. It’s, therefore, important that the home building contract accounts for such possibilities by requiring written work orders that both you and the contractor sign. 

Your contract should also contain express warranties, cost estimates, the indemnity clause, and no damage for delay clause. Take time to read and review the above provisions and terms so you can be confident and secure in regards to your construction project.