Who is responsible for obtaining the building permit?

Building permits can be obtained by the homeowner or a licensed contractor. The person or persons performing the work must obtain the permit. It is a violation of state law if a contractor commences work without first obtaining a permit under his/her state contractors license. The owner/contractor or an authorized agent is the only legal person who can sign the building permit application.

In addition to the above, the City of El Cerrito must verify that the responsible party being issued the permit conforms to the Worker's Compensation Laws of California. Questions regarding this provision can be answered by calling the Building Division at (510) 215-4360.

How can a reputable contractor be located?

There are many local reputable contractors. Building contractors applying for permits within the City must be licensed by the Contractor's State License Board. Under this licensing the contractor is bonded and must carry workman's compensation insurance for their employees.

When a contractor is selected, ask for references and investigate them. Check with Contractor's State License Board and the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against the company. The Contractor's State License Board can be reached at (800) 321-2752.

Applications for permits are obtained from the Building Division. When applying for a permit certain information is required to complete the permit application:

• Description of the work
• Location of the project
• Legal owners name, address and telephone number
• Valuation of the proposed work
• Other information as may be required

Larger projects such as new dwellings, room additions, extensive remodels, commercial projects, requires the applicant to submit all necessary documentation for the plan check review process. Drawings submitted for plan chep>Smaller scale projects having no structural alterations or modifications can usually be handled over the counter and/or submitted and reviewed within a reasonable time frame.

All permits issued require an inspection during and/or at completion of the work. Scheduling inspections is the responsibility of the permittee. The type and number of inspections required varies depending on the project. This information can be obtained at the time the permit is issued. The approved plans and the inspection card that is issued must be on the job site and available to the inspector at the time of inspection.