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First time and first post. I've been thinking of getting a one car garage build in my backyard and are having all kinds of issues with contractors and building dept. I've called 3 contractors and all they want to know is how much I want to pay and how fast I'm giving them my money. Everytime I asked questions, they tend to steer me to other directions so I've gave up so far on all 3 of them. Then I thought let me find out fromt he people in the building dept, they should know best. Wow, what a surprise, they were useless and very rude. I then gave up on them too. No matter how much I hate to go through this, I still had to do this so I'm looking for help here.
So, here I hope I can get some answer to my questions.
Steps on how do I go about planning this at least the planning on my own. For example, how to get plans, permits, get plan approve, etc. Note, when I bought my house, I have this pieces of paper that show a diagram of a garage but I'm not sure if that's plan or not. It does have the drawing of the garage, size,
Contracting, any prefer builder in my area that anyone can endorse.
You can either hire an architect to draw the plans up or hire a general contractor who will have his in house people draw up plans. Once that is done you will have to deal with the building dept to obtain the permits for the garage. I am afraid that is not what you need to hear but that is how it will proceed.
If you get the architect on your own, then he or she can probably recommend a contractor that they work with. It may be more expensive that way and you will probably have to file the plans yourself. One word of caution: Find someone that has worked in the TNH before and knows the codes .....it will save a lot of headaches later. I am unable to suggest someone as my job was done so long ago.
Thank you nuts2uiam, I guess I'll have to check out a few more contractors and see if I get some better service. Still hoping for some recommendation from anyone from TONH.
Did you go to the Buildings Department in Manhasset? I found a person named Andy to be the most helpful. You'll definitely need a permit. Get the form (also available online) and check to see what you need. At the very least, you will need a current survey and the proposed plans/drawings. Also be prepared to have your plans delayed at least 6 months while getting the proper permit. Work with an architect familar with North Hempstead building department. Also, if you have any other unpermitted work previously done on the house, be prepared to address them and get a permit for that as well (HVAC, finished basement, etc.). Hope that your plans meet the code and you don't need to get a variance.
Good luck with finding a contractor. Make sure they are willing to work with the building department and get all the inspections necessary. Most of the time, a reputable contractor wants some money up front, then at certain markers along the project, with final payment upon successful completion of the project.
Start with an architect.....let me know if you need a referral.
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