what is the general consensus on getting the proper construction permits?

[look 171]

John,

You could get specific permits for those things such as you described with the electrical outlets and plumbing. There is no permits for cabinets, countertops or finish flooring. I heard some of the home owners complain about how they want permits for cabinets now. I do not think that is true. The catch is if you have to move any part of the plumbing around the sink (or re-installation of the sink) and the trap/drain under there, then you must get a plumbing permit. Cheap really 50-60 bucks, over the counter or the net now. You can bet on the permit with the service panel. Really foolish for anyone not to get one. Plus, you have to deal with the meter and have DWP come out to connect you up. No way that will fly. Some cities around LA now require you to go under ground. They claim the transformer can't handle the additional power. So you have to pay for the installation of the new transformer and the hook up for your neighbors. That's BS and tons of money. You have to hire them to to the work. Can you say RAPE. Forget about that HVAC you want to install in your older 20s home. Instead of 10 grand, now its 80. Anytime you remove or raplace any plumbing or electrical, you have to get a permit. House supply line? for sure they get you for that. I can only speak for LA and a few of its near by cities. I don't go too far out of my general area.

You know so cal well? In the city of South Pasadena, if you repair a stucco patch of more then 2"(I think), you are require to get a permit. My stucco man told me that story just 3 weeks ago. They are the butt heads with the underground transformer.

Jeff

[look 171]

Noha is right. How bad do you want the house. don't take too long to scratch your head thinking. someonw will take it and out bid you as well around here. I am not jsut talking about a middle class area. It is going on a lot in and around LA. If the house is clean, then its gone with muti offers. Things tend to be a little slower above 800k.

How's that new house going there for you? Iknow you want to see pics, I will try to post it for you when I get a chance to find out how to do it. Its been a long one with the on going projects for clients. I rebuilt about 85% of the house. Not too much structural work beside the foundation.

Jeff