GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Linda Argo
January 5, 2006 Phone: (202) 442-8947
linda.argo@dc.gov <mailto:linda.argo@dc.gov>
BUILDING PERMITS MADE EASY FOR DC HOMEOWNERS
Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Launches Center that will Ease Residents through Home Permit Process
WASHINGTON, DC – The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs has developed an exciting new resource to help homeowners get building permits more easily in Washington, DC. The Homeowners Center will provide prompt and expert assistance to DC homeowners who are seeking building permits for home improvement projects.
The expert staff is ready to provide clear information about permitting regulations and the permitting process, inform homeowners about permit requirements for their specific projects, conduct plan reviews, and issue permits. All this is designed to make getting a permit as convenient as possible. On-site kiosks will help make the permit process easier for homeowners.
“Our new Homeowners Center is a great new addition to our city,” said DC Mayor Anthony A. Williams. “It’s a one-stop shop for residents who need help simplifying the permit process. The center is yet another example of making city government work better and more efficiently for District residents.”
The Homeowners Center will serve District residents by appointment and by walk-in. In addition, the Homeowners Center offers the Permit Wizard, a user-friendly computer program that will make paperwork a snap.
“DCRA has put a great deal of thought and care into developing the new Homeowners Center,” said DCRA Director Patrick Canavan. “We are committed to making the building permit process of District homeowners both smoother and easier. We have created a resource that will set the standard for helping homeowners.”
All home renovations, whether done by contractors or by the homeowner, must follow strict building codes to assure that the work is safe and that there are no fines for illegal construction. DCRA is dedicated to helping District homeowners who are seeking permits for their home improvement projects. The Homeowners Center is a one-stop-shop for owners to learn about the laws related to renovations.
DCRA’s Homeowners Center is located in Suite 2102 at 941 North Capitol Street Northeast. It is open to the public 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Homeowners Center will serve homeowners by appointment and by walk-in.
The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs opened the Homeowners Center on January 5, 2006. Mayor Anthony Williams was on hand for the launch, and was joined by representatives from Citibank, the DC Building Industry Association, the International Code Council, the Fannie Mae Foundation, and other community partners and supporters.
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The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs protects the health, safety, economic interests, and quality of life of residents, businesses, and visitors in the District of Columbia by issuing licenses and permits, conducting inspections, enforcing building, housing, and safety codes, regulating land use and development, and providing consumer education and advocacy services.