Home Building Checklist

  1. Grant Deed:
    You need the latest Grant Deed for the property showing the correct owner together with any recorded easements affecting the property.
  2. Site Plan:
    The site plan should show the lot APN#, the dimensions and total area together with elevations drawn to scale and showing the home located in its proper place. The site plan should also locate any easements, setbacks, house envelope, driveway and flatwork, power, septic or sewer for the site and the location of buildings on adjacent properties.
  3. If Septic:
    If there is a septic system planned, there will need to be a perc test; these results should be submitted as part of the permitting package.
  4. City Sewer:
    If there is a municipal sewer system, there will be sewer connection fees and installation costs for the line that connects to the home. The cost of the connection will depend on the site conditions and the distance to the connection point. It is likely some of these fees will need to be paid at the time a permit is pulled.
  5. Drainage:
    You will need to submit a drainage plan as part of your package when you apply for a permit. A drainage plan will require a topographical map of your site. The drainage plan will show the new contours of the site after it is graded and how on-site water will be eliminated.
  6. A Boundary Survey:
    A recorded boundary survey will be required as part of your permitting package. Later, prior to working on the site, the lot and home site will need be marked by a survey crew.
  7. Soil Tests:
    A soils test is required in Los Angeles County and it is a good idea where there are expansive soils. This will depend on the conditions at your site.
  8. Will Serve Letter:
    A “will serve” comes from the local municipal water company in the area of your lot unless you have your own well. As part of your permit package, you need a “will serve” letter that says the local water company is ready to supply water for your home on the site you have in mind.
  9. Copies:
    You will need a minimum of 5 sets of house plans (and garage if needed) with a wet stamp by a civil engineer. Sets include all house plans, structural calcs, energy Title 24 calcs, and installation manuals for any equipment at the site or home.
  10. Impact Fees:
    You can contact the local county or municipality in your area for information about the fees for processing a permit application and other impact fees. The impact fees are primarily for county services your home will utilize when it is built. They include: Planning and permitting fees, Building and Safety Fees, School Fees,
    Fire Department Fees, Street improvement fees, etc.

Exactly which impact fees you will need to pay vary amongst all jurisdictions. Check the site’s  local municipality or planning department. Ask if they have a one stop option to give home owners an accurate estimate of all their fees.