Permits & Inspections are Good for You

The permit and inspection process ensures that appropriate construction codes are followed for repairs, additions, and new construction. Virginia requires that all new structures comply with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC), which sets standards for the structural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection aspects.

Plan Review, Approval, & Permit Issuance

Prior to actual construction work, a detailed construction plan must be reviewed and approved by the appropriate Inspection Services Division: Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fire Protection. A permit for each relevant category of construction is required. Issuance of a permit means the plan has been reviewed and approved by specialized and highly competent state or county engineers. View the permitting process as a quality check on the intended work.

Inspections

Inspections occur at various phases during construction, and are scheduled after a particular category of work has been completed and before the components are covered over. Plumbing and electrical inspections need to occur before walls and ceilings are covered, for instance. The inspection process is a quality check on the actual work.

Who May Obtain a Permit

Permits are only issued to properly licensed contractors, architects or engineers. A permit may be issued to a homeowner provided that the dwelling is a single family house, townhouse, or condominium unit. As a practical matter, Oakmark arranges for the permits and schedules the inspections.