Once you’ve chosen a piece of land for a new construction project or decided to add a new property to an existing plot, it’s time to start preparing the land. Construction is an expensive and time-intensive project, and a little bit of proper preparation ahead of time can save hundreds of thousands of dollars in unnecessary work.
Of course, the best-laid plans can still result in legal issues. If you’re in that situation now, call Florida Construction Law Group at 305-227-4030 to find out how we can help.
Conduct a Survey and Evaluation
First, oversee a thorough survey and evaluation of the land. This gives you an understanding of any issues you may run into based on the environment and layout of the land itself. Identifying potential issues and boundaries can save a lot of time and money down the road.
Have a Thorough Plan and Timeline
By the time you’ve gotten to this stage, you should have a comprehensive plan for the construction project and a timeline that specifies clear milestones. With a completed survey, you can determine what you’ll want to be removed from the land—trees, shrubbery, and so on—and what you’ll want to keep. This step involves a team of designers, architects, and contractors. Each of these groups brings a separate skillset to the table, ensuring that potential concerns or problems aren’t overlooked.
Verify Access to Utilities
An important part of this process is verifying that the building will be able to be connected to water, electric, gas, and sewer service. If you’re building an additional structure on land that has an existing structure, you may assume that the second building will enjoy the same access. This isn’t necessarily the case, and you’ll want to double-check before you start. You may also want to verify that the property will be able to access Internet service.
Clear the Land
Construction companies spend a substantial amount of time getting property ready for building, and a big part of that is debris removal. Rocks, trees, shrubs, dirt, and other unwanted materials must be cleared away before building can begin. Before this happens, check with local waste removal laws to find out how you have to dispose of natural materials. Failing to adhere to local laws could result in hefty fines if you dispose of waste inappropriately or in the wrong area.
Verify Local Laws and HOA Requirements
If the property you’re building on is part of an HOA or any other association that may affect what you can do with your land, have an attorney go through your HOA covenants and restrictions. Many have specific requirements about what you can and cannot build on your land. Whether you’re building on the previously untouched property or adding an accessory structure, make sure you’re actually allowed to do so without getting hit with fines.
Facing Issues With a Contractor or Construction Company? Choose Florida Construction Law Group
You have important goals you want to accomplish with your property. Make sure that legal issues don’t keep you from reaching them. Schedule a consultation with Florida Construction Law Group now by calling us at 305-227-4030 or filling out our online contact form.
