At Home Living: Building a Home Step 4: Let's dig in

A builder is hired. The location is set. The plans are drawn and ready. As the foundation is dug and the walls constructed, what should an almost-homeowner expect in this stage of the home-building process? Plus, how do you stay marriedor at least speakingto your loved ones, and stay friends with the builder, as the stress of construction begins to increase?

Early in the process, adopt a habit of good communication with your builder, Ivan Weichert of the Topeka Home Builders Association advised. Dont stew over something you thought was going to be different and wait until the final few weeks to bring it up or ask for it to be redone. Also, review financial issues and changes on a regular basis all through the project to avoid surprises near the end for you or your builder.

Before any work can begin, a building permit must be obtained from the City of Topeka. Dave Lundry with the City of Topeka Development Services Division, explained, An application is made for a building permit at the Development Services Permit office. Site and construction plans are submitted and reviewed for compliance with the adopted codes of the City of Topeka. This process generally takes about three days. After this review has passed, the building permit is issued to a general contractor licensed with the City of Topeka.

Along with the permit, inspections are performed by the Development Services Field inspection staff throughout the construction process. These inspections make sure the work is being done in compliance with local, state, and federal codes. Lundy said, We have seven certified inspectors all of whom hold a master license in their trade and/or have ten-plus years of experience in the construction industry.

The ten inspections required for the home construction, and when they take place, include:

1. Footingwhen excavation is complete, with rebar tied and in place, and ready for concrete.

2. Sewer, water and underground installationswhen installations are in place and ready for backfill.

3. Foundation wallwhen the wall is formed with rebar tied in place and ready for concrete.

4. Wall bracing and deck ledger attachmentwhen all braced wall lines are complete and braced wall panels completed.

5. Mechanical, plumbing and electrical rough-inwhen all wiring, plumbing and ductwork are installed. Prior to covering with sheetrock or insulation.

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At Home Living: Building a Home Step 4: Let's dig in