Permit Question Need Advice

[Ben C.]

Can you submit for permits on a house you are purchasing before you close? In NJ it can take 3-4 weeks to get building department approval. I’d like to submit for permits prior to closing so I can start construction right away after closing as opposed to sitting around for a month. Any insight would be great appreciated.

[Will Barnard]

I do not know NJ rules regarding permits but here in CA, the answer is yes, you may submit to plan check for permits and start the process of obtaining clearances and plan check corrections while you are in escrow to purchase. You may need to get an authorization letter from the current owner as well. Contact your local building and safety department and ask them their rules.