How to Choose a Permit Expediter: An Architect’s Guide

From building permits to environmental regulations, architects need to consider many technical details in their designs. Permits are issued to ensure a project’s plans comply with local and state code requirements. Obtaining these permits allows architects to continue moving on their projects with the peace of mind that they are meeting all regulations.

Permitting is complex and time-consuming. With intricate regulations constantly changing, minor errors and oversights can easily slip through causing significant delays. Working with a permit expediter removes these roadblocks and saves valuable time.

Permit expediters work with architects, local and state government agencies and stakeholders involved in the permitting process to obtain the necessary permits for a project. When working with architects and architecture firms, permit expediters are primarily used to make sure their permit applications meet all regulatory requirements.

Working with a permit expediter lowers the risk of errors on applications, saving time and avoiding legal repercussions. Their expert knowledge of local regulations helps gives them the knowledge they need to revise designs with logistical details in mind, understanding the costs to meet the client’s budget and meeting necessary codes. Learn more about the ways architects can benefit from permit expediting services by reading our blog.

When working with a permit expediter, it is important that they have knowledge of your specific type of project and the local regulations. Being aware of specific codes, who to contact about said codes and how to work with you to make sure your paperwork application is in compliance with local and state standards are crucial skills to look for in a permit expediter.

Evaluating a permit expediters’ experience with commercial projects will give insight into just how knowledgeable they are. A good permit expediter will have knowledge of local laws, ordinances and regulations, and will be able to get approval for clients without delays.

While permit expediters are there for clients to make sure the project stays on track with municipalities, things can easily get derailed. When problems in a project arise, you will always have a trusted partner to help get things back on track.

Building codes and regulations can vary from city to city or county to county. When hiring a permit expediter, it is important to ensure they have knowledge of the specific codes that are in place where you are located. Having all of the information related to your build will give you a better framework and allow the permit expediter to explain the process and properly fill out the permit application.

It is common for permit expediters to work with multiple individuals in multiple municipalities on multiple projects. With their breadth of knowledge, they are able to navigate code requirements quickly and easily so they can get to review the first time around.

While permit expediters can’t wave a wand to skip the permitting process, they can make sure it is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible. By submitting accurate permit applications, reviewing status tracking, and handling roadblocks and efforts quickly, they can help move your project along with ease.

The goal of every permit expediter is to reduce the number of rechecks by getting the application approved in the beginning. By reducing the number of required plan checks, negotiating fast review times, and utilizing their existing relationships, they are able to obtain permits and information more quickly than someone on their own.

An expediter’s track record for reliability and efficiency is important to consider when making your decision. Knowing how the permit expediter has worked with others in the past will give you a good idea of what to expect from them for the duration of your project.

Get to know who your permit expediter is and what their reputation is within the building community to know who you are working with. Evaluating their relationships with government officials and other architects or builders will show you the extent of their knowledge about regulations and permitting.

Communicating and collaborating with your permit expediter will ensure your project is set up for success. When you are on the same page, you can design the project you want while making sure it meets all regulatory standards and codes so there is no downtime waiting for approvals. Your permit expediter will set real expectations up front and keep you updated during review so you can better manage your project.

National expediters assist people all over the country with their permitting needs while local expediters focus on those in their specific area. While local expediters may seem more accessible, national expediters have a wider reach and can forge long-lasting relationships with their clients.

National expediters also have knowledge in specific areas, allowing them to take on both large and small projects, whether they span multiple municipalities or are located in just one area. This makes national permit expediters a great choice for large and small projects, as well as projects that span multiple municipalities.

At Scout Services, we serve 7,500 municipalities and can offer the local support you need even if your project manager isn’t located in your same city.

Finding the right permit expediter can be intimidating. So, if you need a guideline, here are some questions you can ask to make sure you are choosing the right one:

• What are your expectations for communication? Will we touch base weekly, daily, etc.?
• What is your length of experience?
• Have you previously worked on projects similar to mine in terms of size and complexity? How did that go?
• How familiar are you with codes in my specific location?
• What is your success rate in providing permits on time?
• Have you ever faced any major challenges or setbacks? How did you deal with them?
• How do you typically communicate with architects during the permitting process?
• How do you ensure the timely submission of permit applications?
• How do you keep up with and navigate local requirements? Online, in-person?
• What is the average cost of permits?
• How long does it take to get a permit approved?

Be aware that the answers to these questions may vary based on location and project.

Scout Services is dedicated to expediting your building permit process. You can request an estimate by contacting our team.

Scout Services works in any jurisdiction on any project size to secure commercial building permits for our customers. We ensure that all necessary documents and information are submitted properly the first time, keeping your project moving on the right track. Our understanding of the unique order of requirements and approval for each jurisdiction has enabled us to streamline submittals.

We work with architects, builders, sign installers, franchise owners, and general contractors on individual projects and multi-site programs across the United States*. With experience in various industries, including industrial and hospitality, we are able to help obtain many different permits, including commercial, sign program, and solar permits.

Contact us to request a quote and see how our permit expediting services can help keep your project moving smoothly. You will be assigned a permit specialist who will walk you through the permitting process from start to finish so you are always in the loop.

*Including Alaska and Hawaii. However, please note that Scout Services does NOT operate in the New York metro area.