Nature unleashes its fury in the form of tornadoes – a whirlwind of destruction that can level communities in mere moments. The science behind their formation is a mystery, yet we know they are a spinning column of air that descends from a thunderstorm to the earth’s surface. These tempests can be as wide as two miles and ravage the land for miles on end.

However, as a contractor, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations for reconstruction following a tornado to aid in the rebuilding process swiftly and safely.

So, let’s move forward.

1. Assessing the aftermath: The initial phase in obtaining permits post-tornado is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the damage. This entails assessing the structural soundness of the buildings, identifying any potentially hazardous materials that may have been unleashed, and getting a sense of the scale of the destruction. It’s crucial to keep detailed records, as this information is utilized to determine the necessary permits for the reconstruction process.
2. Reconstruction work specifications: When submitting permit applications and based on the kind of work, contractors must furnish comprehensive blueprints and specifications for the reconstruction work. These must comprise details of the materials to be utilized, the techniques that will be employed, and any safety protocols that will be put in place. It is noteworthy that these plans and specifications may have to go through a review and be granted clearance by local building officials prior to commencing any work.
3. Securing the necessary permits: After conducting a damage assessment, contractors must secure the necessary construction permits. This typically includes permits for building, electrical, and plumbing. The specific permits required will depend on the scope of the damage and the nature of the rebuilding. In certain cases, a zoning permit may also be necessary. Moreover, to streamline the process, utilizing a permit expediting service can prove beneficial.
4. Follow building codes and regulations: Besides procuring the necessary permits, contractors must also abide by all local building codes and regulations. This includes making sure the work conforms to all fire, safety, and accessibility standards. Familiarizing oneself with these codes and regulations is crucial, as non-compliance can lead to penalties and fines. In addition, contractors should ensure the work meets all applicable environmental laws and regulations. For example, if you are building on a brownfield site or in flood-prone areas, additional precautions may be necessary.
5. Get help from a permit expediting company: Permit expediting company helps contractors and builders obtain necessary permits in a timely manner. This service can be especially useful after a natural disaster when rebuilding efforts are often urgent and time is of the essence.

The Final Point

That’s set to wrap up this guide. So, if you are a contractor searching to rebuild after a tornado, hurricane, or another natural disaster, it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure the safety and quality of the rebuilding process. It’s also paramount to have a clear plan and budget in place before beginning any rebuilding efforts. However, you can refer this blog for additional help.

You can call PermitUsNow at 1.844.PERMIT.4, we are committed to pulling permits for our Architect, Contractor, and Project Owner clients without delay, eliminating their frustrations with the permitting process. Plus, we make it easy for you to work with us. Simply: 1) Email us your plans, 2) Follow up on our feedback for any missing items, and 3) Let us get your permitting done for you. So, send us your plans today and we’ll free you up to focus on doing what you love – building your customers’ dreams. #BuildSafe