Duplex Condo....do I have to have a permit to close in my deck?

Question

I am purchasing a condo (duplex). Attached in the back, is a long deck that the length of the condo itself. Over the years, weather has did is damage. I was thinking of moving because I am needing just a little more room. (its just my son (4) and I). And with the way the housing market is, it would be hard to sell, plus I have a 5. something interest rate and its fixed. So what I thought about was closing in the deck and make it into a room. One would that be a hard job to do myself or with friends? Is replacing the deck as simple as it looks? Starting with the foundation and working my way up repalcing damaged boards? Do I need a permit or something to close it in? Its a two bedroom ranch style condo, attached is a townhouse.

Thanks so much!!!

Answer 1

First and foremost, condos usually come with their own "association" rules...just because you "own" one doesn't mean you can make changes without the association's "permission".  If you were to able to obtain permission then:

the second most important thing would be to heck with your local building department - all things are possible - BUT - without  required permit(s) being issued by the building department, not only would a "stop work" order be put in place if your neighbors complained, there'd be hefty fines to pay.

Also, that the existing deck "runs the length of the condo", implies that the owner of the other condo may be opposed to your idea, so, the neighbor(s) would also have a say.

So, in answer to the question about replacing the deck, the "foundation" is generally framed with either pressure treated lumber for ground contact and/or untreated lumber set in pier blocks with saddles.  Depending on the application, the pier blocks are either buried leaving the saddles exposed or, the blocks are leveled in at ground level leaving both the  block and pier exposed.   There are other means employed as well...

If your friends know nothing about carpentry/framing, no - it isn't as easy as it looks.

Replacing the deck boards is a more  viable option, provided there's someone with at least minimal carpentry skills...that's not to imply that a person with minimal level knowledge could add a room if permits and all other consideration apply.

I'm sure this wasn't what you wanted to hear - but better safe than sorry!

Answer 2

yeh, all the building permits, the plat drawing, the actual drawing, footers, backfill, slab, framing, electrical, plumbing, insulation and then finals for all those.  good luck

Answer 3

I have to assume your zoning and code enforcement laws would dictate a permit, unless you were just replacing a deck that was degrading. You're essentially creating a structural change, whether or not you have to replace the decking material.

Steven Wolf

Just my two "sense"