The building code is the law set by the local, state and federal governments around how buildings should be built. Building codes tend to be most specific at the local government level, where they may describe specific measurements for entrances, exits and other areas. Following the building code and making sure your contractors follow it is critical to home improvement success. How can you navigate the building code? What should you watch out for?
New Construction Contract Omits Vacant Lot Definition
A home buyer buys new construction expecting the next door lot to remain vacant per a verbal agreement with the developer. Later on, the home buyer learns that a developer plans to build on the vacant lot next to the new construction. One option is for the home buyer to buy the vacant lot next to the new construction. The home buyer wants to know his options and they're limited since the promise about the vacant lot was not in writing.
Pitfalls of Building New Home
Do you want to build your dream house? Poor worksmanship can derail your plans, but a good home inspection can help you. Just because a new construction meets building codes doesn't mean the work is done to your standards. Have a home inspection done at several points in the building process.
Report Bad Builders To Local Authorities
After buying a newly built home, a couple discovers many problems and has a missing builder. The local county commissioner will be a big help in getting the builder to make the repairs. If the builder is doing any new construction in the county, and if the commission finds a pattern of problems with the builder's homes, have the commissioner's office yank his building permits. That should put him in serious enough financial trouble to get his attention.