Stages of coordination and permits for office building construction

Constructing an office building is a complex process that requires detailed planning and strict adherence to legal regulations and procedures. A crucial element of this process is obtaining the necessary approvals and permits to ensure the legality of the construction and compliance with legislative requirements. Below are the key stages of this process that help prevent delays and ensure the project's successful implementation.

1. Preparatory Stage: Land Plot Analysis

Before beginning construction, it’s essential to evaluate the selected land plot:

• Verification of Ownership: Ensuring that the land is legally owned or leased by the client.
• Land Use Designation: Confirming whether the land’s designated use permits the construction of office premises. If not, its designation must be adjusted per legal requirements.
• Geodetic Surveys: Assessing the physical characteristics of the land (terrain, soil quality, presence of underground utilities).

2. Development of Project Documentation

At this stage, a building design is created to comply with national building codes and standards. Key tasks include:

• Developing the architectural design, which outlines the layout, appearance, and functional zones of the building.
• Performing engineering calculations for systems such as electricity, water supply, ventilation, heating, and more.
• Conducting an environmental impact assessment to evaluate how the construction might affect the surrounding environment.

The project documentation must be approved by the client before it proceeds to the expert review stage.

3. Passing the Expert Review

The expert review of project documentation is a mandatory step in obtaining construction permits. It includes:

• Verifying the project’s compliance with building norms and standards.
• Assessing the environmental impact of the construction.
• Conducting an economic analysis of the project budget.

A positive conclusion from the review is essential for the subsequent approval process.

4. Obtaining Urban Planning Conditions and Restrictions or a Building Passport

To initiate construction, urban planning conditions and restrictions (for large-scale projects) or a building passport (for smaller projects) are required. These documents specify:

• The allowable parameters for the building.
• Any restrictions, such as height limits or setbacks from the property boundaries.

These documents are issued by local urban planning authorities.

5. Obtaining the Building Permit

The primary document allowing the start of construction is the building permit. To obtain it, the following must be submitted to the State Inspection for Architecture and Urban Development of Ukraine (DABI):

• An application form.
• A copy of the legal documents confirming land ownership or lease.
• The project documentation with a positive expert review conclusion.

The permit is issued after verifying the completeness and accuracy of the submitted documents.

6. Construction Monitoring

During the construction phase, compliance with all technical requirements and regulations is critical. Monitoring includes:

• Author Supervision: Performed by the project designers to ensure construction aligns with the project plan.
• Technical Supervision: Conducted by the client or an authorized representative to oversee work quality.
• DABI Inspections: Periodic inspections to ensure legal compliance during construction.

7. Completion and Commissioning of the Building

After construction is complete, a certificate of readiness for operation must be obtained. For this, the following documents are submitted:

• An application form.
• The completed construction works report.
• Documentation confirming the building’s compliance with the project.

Once the certificate is granted, the building is officially considered complete and ready for use.

Conclusion

The process of obtaining approvals and permits for office building construction is multi-layered and requires careful attention at each step. Adhering to all procedures ensures the project’s success and compliance with safety and comfort standards. Engaging professional consultants and legal experts can significantly simplify the process and help avoid potential mistakes.