When planning to build a deck, one of the most overlooked yet critically important aspects is securing proper permits and ensuring code compliance. Many homeowners assume that permits is unnecessary paperwork that delays construction. Unfortunately, some contractors exploit this misconception by skipping permits altogether, leaving you vulnerable to fines, safety hazards, and costly future repairs.
At Decked Out Builders, we prioritize your safety, peace of mind, and the long-term value of your home by handling all permits and inspections from start to finish. In this blog, we’ll explain why permits matter, what can go wrong when they’re ignored, and exactly how we make sure every deck we build meets or exceeds local building codes.
What Are Building Permits and Why Do They Matter?
A building permit is an official approval from your local municipality allowing you to proceed with construction. It ensures that your project follows the minimum safety and structural standards designed to protect you, your family, and your property.
- Safety is guaranteed: Permits require inspections at different stages to confirm that the structure is sound and built properly.
- Legal compliance: Skipping permits can result in fines, forced demolition, or costly retroactive fixes.
- Home resale value: A deck built without permits can hurt your home’s resale value or even cause problems during a sale.
- Insurance protection: Unpermitted structures may not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance in case of damage.
Common Issues from Skipping Permits
Unfortunately, many contractors prioritize speed and cutting costs over legality. This results in decks that:
- Use substandard materials or unsafe framing techniques.
- Lack proper footings or support, causing premature settling or collapse.
- Have inadequate ledger board attachment risking detachment from the house.
- Fail to meet railing height and spacing requirements, creating fall hazards.
- Experience difficulties when homeowners try to sell or refinance their property.
How Decked Out Builders Handles Permits Differently
At Decked Out Builders, we handle the entire permitting process on your behalf to make it hassle-free.
- We Know the Local Codes Inside and Out
McHenry and Lake Counties have specific requirements for deck construction everything from footing depth to railing design to fastener types.
Our team keeps up to date with all local building codes and regulations. We design and build every deck to exceed these standards, so you’re protected and your project passes inspections without delays.
- We Pull Permits for Every New Project
No exceptions. Every new deck project starts with submitting detailed plans and permit applications to the proper authorities.
Because we handle this process, you never have to worry about missing paperwork or improper submissions. We ensure everything is filed correctly.
- We Coordinate Inspections and Approvals
Permits require inspections at various construction stages: foundation, framing, and final.
We schedule and attend all inspections, ensuring inspectors see the highest standards in construction and that any issues are addressed immediately.
What This Means for You as a Homeowner
By choosing Decked Out Builders, you gain:
- Peace of Mind: You can trust that your deck is safe, legal, and built to last.
- Time Savings: We manage the permitting process
- Long-Term Savings: Avoid costly fines, rework, or legal issues that unpermitted decks can cause.
- Enhanced Property Value: Your home’s deck will be a fully compliant, attractive addition that adds value.
What to Expect When You Work with Decked Out Builders
From your first consultation to project completion, here’s how we keep permits and code compliance worry-free:
- We review your property and design plans with permitting requirements in mind.
- You receive a detailed project proposal that includes permit costs upfront.
- We submit all necessary paperwork on your behalf.
- Our team coordinates all municipal inspections.
- You get a final sign-off certificate, proving your deck is fully permitted and code-compliant.
Don’t Risk Your Investment — Choose Decked Out Builders
A beautiful deck is a wonderful investment in your home, but skipping permits or hiring contractors who ignore codes puts that investment at risk. Don’t let headaches, fines, or safety hazards ruin your outdoor dreams.
At Decked Out Builders, we build decks the right way from permits to final nail.
Ready to get started on your safe, code-compliant deck? Contact us today for a free consultation.
