3 Important Considerations when Renovating a Historic Building

Historic building renovation is no simple feat – in fact, it’s the exact opposite. These buildings typically need quite a bit of TLC and may come with more than a few hidden costs and unexpected surprises.

However, fear not! With some patience and careful planning, you can restore any historic building and begin using it for an all new purpose in no time.

Before starting the process of historic building renovation, it is necessary to do quite a bit of research. You can also use the three tips here to help with the process.

1. Acquire the Needed Licenses and Permits

Before doing anything, it is necessary to review and acquire specific licenses and permits. In most cases, if you hire the right construction company, they will handle this for you. However, in other cases, the building owner will be required to obtain the needed building permits before any work can be done.

If the building has been designated as historic at the local, state or federal level, then additional permits may also be required to remain in compliance with the regulations that governs the historic designation in place.

2. Stay Compliant with all Regulatory Requirements and Codes

Historic building restoration has to abide by the state and local regulations to avoid costly violation fees. These regulations and codes are usually put in place not to be a source of annoyance (though they often are, but to ensure the safety and comfort for those using the building.

When it comes to historic properties, codes protect and preserve the historic character of the structure from its Kansas City roofing system down to its foundation, while still accommodating modern standards. It is a good idea to research the local and state codes before getting started. Keep in mind, an inspector can stop by at any time and by ensuring all codes are met, you can avoid fines.

3. Find the Right Kansas City Construction Company

Perhaps the most important thing you can do is find the right construction company to handle your historic renovation project. Many old building have special stone features, floors and live edge tables and other natural wood features on the inside and out. Not all construction services can handle this work, and as a result, it is up to the building owner to ensure they find a company with the experience, ability and know-how to handle the job.

It is a good idea to look at past projects to help ensure that the desired results for historic renovation projects are achieved. In the long run, this will also help the building owner help avoid fines and other expenses related to the work not being done properly.

When it comes to the historic renovation of any project, there are several considerations to keep in mind. With the three tips here, anyone who wants to restore a historic building will have a good place to start. The worst thing you can do is just jump in without finding out all the specifics of this type of work first. Make sure you are informed and hire a quality construction company to achieve the best results possible for your historic renovation project.