A contractor discovers they need to modify their original building permit application after work has begun. The modification increases the project scope by 25%. What is the proper procedure under Florida regulations?
Correct Answer
B) Stop work and apply for permit modification before continuing
Florida building codes require stopping work and obtaining proper permit modifications before continuing when project scope significantly changes. Working beyond the permitted scope is a violation that can result in penalties and required corrections.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Florida building codes strictly require that all work must be performed under valid permits that accurately reflect the project scope. When modifications increase the scope by 25%, this represents a significant change that exceeds the original permitted work. Continuing work without proper permit modification constitutes a violation of building codes and can result in stop-work orders, fines, and potential requirement to tear out completed work. The contractor must halt all work immediately and obtain the proper permit modification before any additional work can proceed.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Continue work and update permit at final inspection
This approach violates Florida building codes by allowing unpermitted work to continue. Working beyond the original permit scope without authorization can result in stop-work orders, fines, and potential demolition of completed work that wasn't properly permitted.
Option C: Complete current work phase then apply for additional permit
This still involves continuing work beyond the original permitted scope, which is a code violation. Even completing the 'current phase' may exceed what was originally permitted, and any work beyond the original scope must stop immediately until proper modifications are obtained.
Option D: Notify building department but continue work
Simply notifying the building department while continuing work is insufficient and still constitutes a violation. Notification does not provide authorization to continue work beyond the permitted scope - formal permit modification approval is required before work can proceed.
Memory Technique
Use the acronym 'SPAM' - Stop work, Permit modification, Approval required, Move forward only after approval
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 1 - Scope and Administration, Section 105 (Permits) and Section 114 (Violations)
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