Building and Demolition Permits
A building or
demolition
permit is one of the first steps to be taken when planning an
addition. The municipality keeps a record of permits and the
associated plans to use for community planning, taxation, but most
importantly emergency planning and access.
The building inspector carries out an inspection of
the
addition to ensure that it meets the standards set out by the Ontario
Building Codes, municipal bylaws, fire codes, and health
regulations. Three inspections usually occur as the building
progresses:
Rough in-at this point the building
is just a frame with a roof. Windows and doors should be
installed, but no insulation or drywall. This provides the
inspector with full access to electrical and plumbing
systems. Electrical service and wiring is installed, but no
fixtures. The plumbing system will be installed, but no
fixtures. The plumbing system will need to be pressure tested
before further work can commence.
Completion-The addition must be
inspected prior to habitation.
Post Completion-This
inspection is to ensure that any deficiencies or commissions to the
original plans have been addressed and brought up to code.
Each municipality has its own by-laws regarding
additions. Your local building inspector or contractor will be
able to provide information on:
- obtaining permission from neighbours
- minimum/maximum size requirements
- demolition permits (if you are removing
or partially
removing an existing structure)
- distances from lot lines or waterfront
- health inspections (when adding
substantially to the
home or increasing the number bedrooms)
- plumbing permits and approved plumbers
- required distances from well and septic
systems
- access to town provided water and sewage
The cost of a
permit is
generally based on the square footage of the proposed addition,
averaging out to about $0.35 per square foot. Most municipalities
have a ceiling on the cost of permits. Failing to obtain a permit
prior to the start of work can mean work stoppages, demolition or
removal of the building, and fines.
Health
Inspections
Certain types
and sizes of
additions require a health inspection to be carried out prior to
building. This is essentially to determine if the existing septic
system will be large enough for the requirements of the new
addition. This helps to prevent system overloads which can lead
to early failure of the septic system as well as messy backups that can
damage foundations and interiors. It also helps to protect future
owners from costly upgrades when the use of the home changes.
The main
purpose of
any foundation is to support a structure. Instability in this
support can lead to damage to the supported and attached structures and
discomfort to the occupants.
The foundation types most recommended for
additions
generally consisted of concrete footings poured below the frost
line. Drainage tile is laid outside the foundation and tied into
the main drain for the home. The foundation walls are then
attached to the footings and tied into the existing foundation walls as
it is built up to the desired height. Since the height is usually
level with the height of the main floor, the depth of the basement may
vary from 5' to 10'. A height of 24" or more above surrounding
ground level is best to prevent snow build up and runoff from seeping
through the plate and walls of the addition.
Insulating the exterior of the foundation with
Styrofoam serves a dual purpose. It helps to keep out the
external cold/heat and retains internal heat such as ground heat and
radiant heat from underfloor ducting. Leaving heat ducts exposed
this area warms the space and keeps floors comfortable.
Special consideration needs to be given to
additions
that will house bathrooms and kitchens. Additional heat ducts may
be needed to prevent pipes from freezing.
Soil
type
Footing components for all foundations must be
four
feet below ground level. This reduces the possibility that the
footing will sink and cause damage. This is particularly
important
as the foundation, walls, and roof are tied to the existing
structure. Boggy soils may require an adjustment to the
concrete used to pour the footings to improve the strength.
Municipal
Information
For more
information on
building and plumbing permits in your area, please contact the
municipal office or the building inspector.