When undertaking a huge task like renovating your property, you can come face to face with an endless array of issues. One such issue that cannot be ignored is having to adhere to local and state compliance regulations for renovations. This is where you may need some expert insight.
Since Urban Complex GC is well-versed in multi-family renovations, we have outlined in this blog all the ways you can stay compliant throughout your property renovations. Let’s take a closer look!
How To Stay Compliant During Property Renovations?
Here are the top seven ways outlined by the EPA to stay in compliance with local and state laws during renovations:
1. Get A Renovation Permit
Renovation permits are necessary for upholding legal compliance, whether it be local building codes, zoning laws, environmental safety standards, or public safety regulations. Without a proper permit, you can be prohibited from completing your property renovations and, in worst-case scenarios, even taken to court.
If you are unsure whether or not your endeavor requires a permit, here is a list of renovations for which you need to acquire a permit:
- In case you plan on making major structural changes.
- If you plan to tinker with the electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems of the property.
- If you plan on doing exterior work on the property.
To get a renovation permit, you may need to check the local requirements, submit detailed plans for your property renovations, and pay the fee for the permit. After this, your property in question will be visited by local authorities throughout the project for general inspections, only to get the final approval once your renovations are complete. You can also hire a fully licensed multi-family renovation contractor like Urban Complex GC to handle all the legalities for you.
2. Comply With Occupational Protective Regulations
According to 1926.28(a) regulation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), you are responsible for making sure any construction worker hired for renovations is wearing proper protective equipment. This equipment includes:
- Disposable coveralls and shoe covers
- Chemical resistant gloves
- Safety goggles
- Face masks
- Hard hats
The reason for these measures is that most property renovations can result in the spread of PCBs or polychlorinated biphenyls, which are extremely toxic chemicals that can severely damage your immune system. Another important protective measure you need to take is to ban any form of drinking, smoking, or eating on the premises of the property renovation sites.
3. Communicate Clearly With Occupants
If you are planning to renovate multi-family homes or apartments with occupants, you need to communicate your plans clearly. This will keep you from catching any stray complaints. Here is everything you need to convey:
- Health and safety adherence
- Site access limitations
- Length of renovations
- Type of renovations
- Goals for the renovations
4. Make Sure To Keep The Work Area Secure
The work area for your property renovations needs to be kept off-limits from the general public. You can use various methods to do so, including the use of lock fence gates, barrier tape, construction cones, clear signage prohibiting entry, and a system for limiting entry to authorized personnel only.
5. Prevent The Spread Of Dust
Dust from property renovations can not only cause serious respiratory issues but it also can spread harmful carcinogens like PCBs. The best way to ensure public safety and adhere to the EPA regulations is by isolating the work area by using heavy plastic sheeting and building an enclosure to only allow authorized personnel access.
You may also need to seal off any open vents to keep the dust inside and lay down the sheeting on the ground for ease of cleanup. Additionally, try to use tools and equipment that generate the minimum amount of dust and debris.
6. Leave The Work Area Clean
The work area needs to be cleaned properly at the end of every day, especially at the end of the renovations. According to the EPA, every surface needs to be vacuumed, all plastic sheeting must be removed, and the work area must be scampered with by a general-purpose cleaner.
7. Hire A General Contractor
The best to adhere to all these regulations is by hiring a general contractor for your multi-family renovation project. Urban Complex GC is the best general contractor for apartment renovations in the USA, and our services are designed to stay in compliance with local and state regulations.
To Wrap Up
Staying compliant with local and state regulations during your property renovations is crucial to avoid any legal issues and ensure public safety. From obtaining renovation permits to communicating with occupants, implementing occupational protective regulations, and hiring a qualified general contractor like Urban Complex GC, there are various ways you can stay on the right side of the law. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to expert professionals for guidance and assistance, and make your property renovation project a success!
