Additional information
Special warning regarding homeowner repair permits
When a licensed contractor obtains a building permit, the contractor is totally responsible for the construction (including the work performed by subcontractors) to meet all codes. If the construction fails to comply with all codes, their permit bond can be used to repair the code violation.
When an owner obtains his or her own building permit, he or she becomes totally responsible for the code compliance of the construction project including subcontractors and not the contractor – even if a contractor is hired and the construction does not comply with all codes.
If you have hired the services of a contractor, require the contractor obtain the building permit.
The repair and inspection sequence for flood damaged properties:
- Once you have your building permit, the next step is to secure the services of a licensed electrical contractor and a licensed HVAC contractor to inspect electrical and HVAC equipment which may have been submerged in flood waters.
- Do not install drywall or cover the electrical or HVAC systems until the following has been completed.
- The licensed electrical and HVAC contractors will obtain electrical and HVAC permits associated with the repair and replacement of any submerged electrical, HVAC systems or any part thereof. The licensed contractors will complete their work and call Codes for inspections and approvals.
- After the Electrical and Mechanical work has been inspected, insulation must be installed in the exterior walls and floors to meet the requirements of the adopted energy codes. Walls must be insulated with R-13, and floors must be insulated with R-19.
- After installing insulation and before hanging the drywall, you will call the Codes Department’s Building Inspection Division (862-6550) and request a “framing inspection”. Upon receiving our approval of the framing inspection, you are then free to hang the drywall and complete the remainder of the repairs.
Homeowner guidelines for addressing mold:
- Be aware that mold might be present if your house was flooded.
- Wet items such as furniture and rugs should be taken outside to dry out.
- Remove all drywall that has been submerged.
- Use fans and dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from your home. Fans should be placed at a window or door to blow the air outwards rather than inwards, so not to spread the mold.
- To remove or prevent mold growth from hard surfaces use commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water.