To Start a small business remodeling homes basements Etc. What type of degree do i need.Or do i need one?

Question

Im a Drafting student,i have a friend thats an architectural student.Im looking to transfer after i get my assoc. for construction or arch. long story short,while looking for a job i came across a few people wanting minor remodels of homes certain spaces etc.I thought i could start a small business i have more people asking now than initially expected.I just need to know some of the legall issues associated with this.What do i need Criteria wise,or can i just send my designs to like a county inspector or something for approval most likely at a fee..If someone could point in the right path id greatly appreciate it.

Answer 1

Depending upon state law, the design of most buildings — schools, hospitals, commercial buildings, manufacturing facilities, courthouses, government offices, to name a few — requires an architect. However, in most states, anyone can legally "design" a house, with some restrictions of size or dollar value as regulated by local laws.

Most likely, you will have to obtain a building permit (probable cost: $25 to $100 or more) from the town for each job--and that includes submitting plans with local building codes that must be complied with. Without any license your drawings will be more heavily scrutinized.