Permitting process [STX]

Can't really comment on STX, but on STT it is pretty much the same amount of time as before the storms as long as you have all of your ducks in a row.

I would take the plans to the permit office yourself once they are signed and ask staff about the next step.

Looking to rebuild a wood deck that got obliterated by Maria. Replacing with a full concrete structure. Drafting plans to be signed off by a structural engineer. Same footprint / no variances.

Any ideas how long the permitting process takes post-Maria?

Why bother w permit? Is there any type of enforcement when not getting a permit especially since you replacing existing structure?

I know VI is different - but it could catch up.

In FL now, you cannot sell a house with unpermitted improvements if your buyer is financing with a mortgage. If you have unpermitted improvements, you have to pull a permit and have the work inspected prior to the sale. If it can't pass inspection, you have to bring the work to standard to pass inspection or you cannot sell.

Since this focus on permitting is being driven by the lenders, it's not farfetched to think this could be required in the VI as well at some point.

Replacement such as your porch can be a bit different but I would definitely talk to your structural engineer and/or your contractor about permitting the work. Rebuilding from wood to concrete is a structural improvement.

Since this focus on permitting is being driven by the lenders, it's not farfetched to think this could be required in the VI as well at some point.

Perhaps the VI will catch up...in 20 years!

My point exactly. FL looks back at least 20 years now. Even if you bought property with unpermitted work, you inherit the responsibility from the previous owner/s to acquire the appropriate permit and have the subsequent inspection to close the permit or you cannot sell your house to anyone who needs a mortgage.

Serious deal killer.

Since this focus on permitting is being driven by the lenders, it's not farfetched to think this could be required in the VI as well at some point.

Perhaps the VI will catch up...in 20 years!

I doubt there is a documentation if the porch was wood or concrete. It’s VI for Gods sake.

..... but you would be legally obliged to disclose this as a post-hurricane structural replacement/improvement to your property on the owner disclosure form if you were to sell your home.

I doubt there is a documentation if the porch was wood or concrete. It’s VI for Gods sake.

There is No sellers disclosure form In VI.

The WI gal i bought had only one respone to my questions like “when was the last time cistern was painted?
“I don’t know.”

They are well versed in taking advantage of 5th amendment. 🙂