Building permit process expedited for tornado victims rebuilding their homes
Date published: 5/15/2008
By Kafia Hosh
Permitting process expedited for those affected by tornado
Stafford County is expediting its building-permit process to help tornado victims rebuild their damaged homes. County building officials can determine whether permits are required for repairs and also provide information on the types of permits required. Residents can visit the customer service center at the Berea Fire and Rescue Station or call 540/658-4221 for more information. The center will be open through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
To obtain a building permit:
Request pre-permit inspection with a Stafford County building inspector. Complete pre-permit inspection to assess the condition of house.
If the home sustained minor damage, obtain a permit at the Berea Fire and Rescue Station; complete the permit application to include the building-inspector instructions (where applicable); complete work and request inspection.
If the home sustained moderate or major damage, contact a licensed professional engineer or architect to perform home inspection and make recommendations; obtain a permit at the Berea Fire and Rescue Station; complete permit application to include recommendations from an engineer or architect and attach any necessary drawings (e.g. roof truss sealed drawings); perform work in accordance with recommendations and the requirements of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and request required inspections during the course of the work.