Owners get break on building permits
By Bobbi Mlynar
Originally published 01:19 p.m., July 8, 2008
Updated 01:19 p.m., July 8, 2008
Q I notice that if homeowners say they’re putting on roofs by themselves, the cost for a permit is a lot cheaper. I know some of these people can’t put on a roof. How can they do that?
A It’s allowed through an exception to city ordinances governing construction in Emporia. The exception, however, is not as broad as it may appear.
Emporia’s chief building inspector, Martin Peres, said, in general, anyone doing construction work in Emporia is required to be certified, licensed and bonded.
The exceptions are: a homeowner working on a single-family dwelling in which he or she lives, or a landlord doing work on a single-family dwelling or duplex.
Those property owners also may act as general contractors for roofing and other work.
“If you hire someone to do it, then that individual or firm is required to be a licensed contractor,” Peres said. “An owner-occupant (or qualifying landlord) may act as the general contractor when all subcontractors are licensed, as required by this code.”
All contractors are required to have a $5,000 surety bond on file with the city.
“The purpose and intent and reason behind the bond is, should a contractor fail to comply with the codes, then the owner can simply sue against that bond,” he said. “So, in essence, (bonds) offer consumer protection, somewhat.”
An owner doing his or her own work also may be assisted by a family member or members, as long as the owner is on the job site, he said. The code for many years has been interpreted as allowing that option.
Permit costs, based on the total cost of the project, are less for owner-construction projects.
“Most likely you will only absorb the cost of the materials, so you’re not going to have that labor cost,” Peres said.
He added that owners can make what are considered “cosmetic” improvements without taking out building permits.
Those exempted improvements include, but are not limited to, painting interior and exterior; floor coverings such as carpet, linoleum, and tile; storm doors and windows; and guttering.
“There’s a considerable amount of work they can do without a permit,” Peres said.
He added, however, there also is a considerable amount of work that cannot be done without a permit.
“I would strongly encourage, if anyone has any questions at any time, notify the office or come into the office,” he said. “We’re as close as the phone.”
The number to call is 343-4274.