Don't Let Your Project Become an As-Built Nightmare
An as-built permit is required when a structure has already been built without the proper permits or inspections. Getting that work approved after the fact often means hiring engineers, exposing finished construction for inspection, and paying for corrections. It usually costs far more than permitting the project correctly from the start. Here is how it happens and how to avoid it.
When planning a construction project, it's easy to think permits can wait until later. Unfortunately, taking that shortcut can lead to one of the most expensive and frustrating situations a property owner can face: as-built permitting.
What is an as-built permit?
An as-built permit is typically required when a structure has been built without the necessary permits or inspections. Whether it's a detached garage, deck, room addition, electrical upgrade, installation of a manufactured home or construction of a single-family residence, patio cover or patio, or even excavating, unpermitted work can create significant challenges for homeowners and contractors alike.
Why as-built permits are so expensive
Unlike a standard building permit, the as-built process often requires licensed professionals (such as engineers) to evaluate the existing structure and verify that it complies with current building codes. Hidden components such as foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems may need to be exposed for inspection, potentially resulting in demolition, repairs, and costly upgrades before approval can be granted.
Beyond the expense of engineering and corrective work, unpermitted structures can complicate future property sales, refinancing, insurance claims, and additional improvements. What may seem like a time-saving decision can ultimately cost far more than obtaining the proper permits from the start.
How to avoid an as-built permit
The best way to avoid an as-built permit is simple: plan ahead and secure the necessary permits before construction begins. Understanding local requirements and coordinating with experienced permit professionals can help prevent delays, unexpected costs, and unnecessary stress.
Permit Pushers, LLC: Permitting Made Easy
Since 1994, Permit Pushers, LLC has specialized in permit expediting and project coordination, helping homeowners, builders, and developers navigate the permitting process throughout Arizona and beyond.
Our services include:
Custom and manufactured homes
Additions and remodels
Garages, workshops, and accessory structures
ADUs and outdoor living projects
Solar and sign permits
Planning and zoning assistance
Permit research and due diligence
Project tracking, permit, design professionals' coordination and management
Our goal is to help clients identify permit requirements before construction starts, keeping projects on schedule and helping avoid costly as-built situations.
After more than 30 years in business, we've learned that the easiest permit to manage is the one handled correctly from the beginning. If you're planning a project, let Permit Pushers help you build with confidence, not corrections. Because when it comes to construction, the best strategy is simple: plan first, permit first, and build with assurance.
Frequently asked questions
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An as-built permit is a permit obtained after a structure has already been built without the proper permits or inspections.
Instead of approving plans before construction, it verifies that work already completed meets current building codes, which often requires inspection of the existing structure before approval. -
You typically need one when work was done without the required permits or inspections.
This can apply to a wide range of projects, including detached garages, decks, room additions, electrical upgrades, manufactured home installations, single-family homes, patios and patio covers, and even excavation. -
The as-built process often requires licensed professionals such as engineers to evaluate the existing structure and confirm it meets code.
Hidden components like foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems may need to be exposed for inspection, which can lead to demolition, repairs, and upgrades before approval is granted.