Project Planning

Permits

When you embark on either a new build or a home renovation project, it is important to apply for building or renovation permits. Not only does this process ensure that the work completed on your home conforms to the building code but it helps protect your investment and will not hinder the sale of your home if you ever want to sell. Our proven knowledge and expertise equates to solid relationships with both city planners and inspectors to help mitigate any issues in permitting and planning.

Did you know that there are 13 municipalities in Greater Victoria and they ALL have different permitting requirements, regulations and bylaws. Each municipality even has different bylaws per geographical location. It’s yet another reason why you need to trust in a professional firm who can help navigate the systems and procedures for your specific municipality. It really is a critical stage of your project development.

Discovery

During our initial Discovery Meeting we will prompt you through a series of questions to learn about you and your family, your lifestyle, must haves, nice to haves, concerns or questions. We will reference our own portfolio images and inspiration that you may have collected to guide the building design process. Together, we will define your style preference including your favourite finishes and features as well as your landscape/ outdoor living requirements to create a design concept that best matches your style and budget.

Engineering

Many projects require engineer approval for permit applications and their sign off to close the permit. We work with a team of trusted engineers to provide solutions that we implement based on their recommendations. We also acquire building permits on your behalf so you can feel confident that your project will always meet or exceed BC building code standards. Remember, we do it once, and do it right!

Zoning Analysis

A proper zoning analysis allows us to fully-understand what we are able to build on your property including the physical limitations of the building footprint, overall height and setbacks. With site survey information of your property, we are also able to determine if there are any environmental impacts, development permit concerns and whether or not a variance will be required for any proposed work.

Feasibility Study

You may have the most innovative and brilliant home design or renovation idea but is it even possible? A feasibility study is undertaken in the very early stage of a project and is typically done if there is some doubt or controversy. It helps establish whether or not the project is viable, may identify alternate options and can help with identifying possible barriers or issues that may impact budgets or timelines for the home’s completion. Flintstones can help you navigate this process and ensure that your valuable renovation or home construction dollars are well spent.

Variances

A variance may be necessary when the position of your existing house encroaches on the side yard setback or when you’re home is over the allowable height limit set out in the zoning bylaw. Presenting a great design solution as well as neighbourhood support to the Board of Variance always increases the likelihood of your application being approved. Knowing that you’ve engaged with an experienced company like Flintstones, will not only help you sleep at night but will ensure that you navigate the variance process smoothly and with the least amount of stress possible.

Hazardous Materials Assessment

Hazardous materials can include everything from asbestos, to lead paint, to mold or solid wastes. Asbestos was used in many commercial and residential materials prior to 1980, including duct tape, floor and ceiling tiles, plaster and insulation. Mold is another common contaminant that can be present in your walls, ceilings or millwork. Whatever the material, our specialized inspection and cleanup practices will remove the contaminant from your home once and for all, giving you peace-of-mind that your family is safe.

Budgeting

Accounting is completed by our full-time Chartered Accountant, not a tradesperson. We use timesheets detailing which parts of the project require work and for how long. We regularly refer to the original budget supplied at the beginning of a project to provide status updates on how we are progressing. Your budget won’t change unless there are requested add-ons or the scope or scale of the project changes. “Add-ons” can quickly add up, that’s why detailed estimating, proposals, permitting and material coordination is essential to a successful project and a happy homeowner.

ESSENTIAL FOR SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS