All Forum Posts by: Eric Seo

Just wanted to provide an update on this.  I was able to submit my permit application online, but the typical 10 business day review period ended on 5/5/20 and we still have not heard anything back from L&I.  I have heard from others that they are experiencing delays as well.  Would be great to hear whether anyone has gotten a new permit issued for an application that was submitted electronically after the L&I office was shut down due to coronavirus.   

Has anybody submitted permit (or other) applications electronically after the construction restriction was put in place for Philly?  I have heard that L&I may be reviewing some electronically filed permit applications during the shutdown.  Although no work could be done until construction is permitted agin, I'm wondering whether anyone has any insight into whether they are still reviewing permits/plans for upcoming projects.  

So I got in touch with L&I and was told that this rule is currently in effect and that for non-owner occupied properties you either have to (i) submit plans (in which case you’re subject to the 10 business day review period) or (ii) submit a sealed engineer’s report that no structural work will be done (in which case you can still get a permit same day).  This applies to both alteration and demolition permits.  

This is an older thread, but just wondering if anyone has had recent experience with pulling an EZ permit for an investment property?  Just trying to get a sense for whether plans will be required for an upcoming project that would otherwise be covered by an EZ permit. 

Alex and David were correct.  Some of the windows were just under 24” from the floor, which is what triggered the requirement.  We were able to pick up some relatively inexpensive window opening guards that keep the windows from opening too far. They can also be removed by an adult in the event of an emergency.  Next time I will make sure that the window installers adjust the framing for any windows that don’t comply with the 24” requirement.

Thanks for the replies!

Is anybody familiar with building code requirements relating to window guards/stops in small multifamily buildings in Philadelphia?  I just had an inspection for a duplex renovation in Philly and one of the items the inspector noted is that we need to put something in place to keep the second and third story windows from opening more than 6 inches.  

Wondering if anyone has experience with this and what was used to address the issue. Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

I can’t speak to the nominal purchase price question, but for taxes, you can get the assessed value from the Atlas site and multiply that by the current tax rate (1.3998%).  Those are the only property taxes that have to be paid in Philly (and that’s what a lender would escrow for). 

Aside from property taxes, if you have rentals, the Net Profits Tax (https://www.phila.gov/services/payments-assistance-taxes/business-taxes/net-profits-tax/) and Business Income & Receipts Tax (https://business.phila.gov/overview-of-business-income-and-receipts-tax/) would apply.  

I agree with Mike that it shouldn’t take long if it’s a licensed contractor.  Not sure about HVAC permits, but plumbing and electrical can be EZ permits that get issued the same day.  

One thing to keep in mind is that the standards can vary for MFH vs SFH, particularly if you are going to be touching walls/ceilings. So if this is MFH, make sure to check with your contractor about requirements to submit drawings, etc. which can make the review period longer.

Thanks Mike.  I’ll check them out. 

I am looking for a reasonably priced window installer in Philadelphia to replace most of the windows in a 3 story row home in Philadelphia. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!