Who should obtain permits?

[Trollcifer]

Here is a quote from the contract:

"Our price does not include obtaining any permits, however this contract appoints us to be the authorized agent of the owner to obtain any permits as required, on the owners behalf. The permit fees, municipal fees and/or conservation fees (if any) are payable by the owner. Any municipal deposits required for curbs, sidewalks, and/or grading are made by the owner."

Sounds like PB is just trying to indicate that I'm responsible for permit costs, correct? Just want to make sure they're not trying to absolve themselves of the liability in case something is missed. Is there something else I should inquire about with regards to permits?

 

[Bama Rambler]

They get them and you pay for them! That's how it reads to me.

You should get a list of the required permits from the AHJ so you know what you have to have beforehand.

 

[doobs41378]

I got my permits( building and electrical ) and I paid for them. Contract stated permits were not part of the price.

 

[davelinde]

Usually you hold final payment until final inspection is passed which keeps the PB on the hook.
If they work in numerous jurisdictions it's not unreasonable for them to just pass along the fees to you since they seem to be getting less predictable and costing more each year. One thing to ask would be about a re-inspection fee... we got hit with reinspect fees when a contractor failed an inspection. His drawing didn't match what he built and he needed to make a note on his drawing and resubmit it. We ended up paying that fee even though it seemed to be his fault.

 

[bigdav160]

Where do you live?

Believe it or not, not all areas of this Country have permitting or inspections.