Obtaining a building permit is an important step between completing the plans and beginning construction. Alvesco Construction helps organize the required construction documents, submit the building-permit application and respond to requests from the local building department.
Because every project and municipality is different, permit requirements and review times may vary. Our goal is to prepare a complete application, keep the homeowner informed and move the project toward approval as efficiently as possible.
Preparing and Submitting the Permit Application
Once the construction contract has been signed and the required initial payment has been received, Alvesco Construction handles the building-permit application process on behalf of the homeowner.
Most Massachusetts cities and towns now accept permit applications through an online permitting system. Alvesco Construction will prepare and submit the application, upload the required documents, pay or coordinate the municipal permit fee and communicate with the building department throughout the review process.
Depending on the municipality and type of project, the required documents may include:
• The completed building-permit application
• The signed construction contract
• Architectural and construction plans
• A certified plot plan or property survey, when applicable
• Alvesco Construction’s contractor licenses and registrations
• Proof of general liability insurance
• The required workers’ compensation affidavit
• Structural calculations, energy documentation or other supporting information
• A dumpster or street-occupancy permit, when applicable
• The municipal building-permit fee
Alvesco Construction handles the submission and coordinates any construction-related corrections, clarifications or additional documents requested by the municipality. When information must be provided by the architect, engineer, surveyor or homeowner, we will communicate what is needed and coordinate with the appropriate party.
Licensed electricians, plumbers, gas fitters and other licensed professionals obtain their respective trade permits when required. Alvesco Construction coordinates these professionals and their permits as part of the overall construction process.
Once all required approvals have been issued, Alvesco Construction will coordinate the construction start date with the homeowner. The project will then proceed according to the signed contract, approved plans, agreed scope of work and payment schedule.
Permit Review and Approval Time
After the complete permit application and all required documents have been submitted, the local building department will begin its review. Massachusetts building officials generally have up to 30 days to review and take action on a building-permit application. This does not guarantee approval within 30 days if additional plans, corrections, approvals or supporting documents are required.
Permit applications are generally reviewed in the order they are received. Many straightforward residential permits are approved within approximately two to three weeks, depending on the municipality’s workload, the complexity of the project and whether the original submission is complete.
If the building department requests additional information, revisions or approvals from another municipal department, the review may take longer. Alvesco Construction will monitor the application, communicate with the municipality and coordinate the required response with the architect, engineer, surveyor or homeowner.
Once the permit is approved and issued, Alvesco Construction will coordinate the construction schedule and anticipated start date with the homeowner.
Once Your Permit Is Approved
Once the building permit has been approved and issued, Alvesco Construction will coordinate the anticipated start date with the homeowner and begin preparing the project for construction.
Learn what happens next, from site preparation and utility markings to excavation, foundation work, inspections and the remaining construction phases.
