Construction Equipment Rental in Oakland, CA

About Construction Projects in Oakland, CA

Construction work in Oakland, California, is always happening. This growing area is an exciting place to live and work. Contractors in Oakland must follow all rules around construction. If you don’t follow the steps in order, you could get fined.

Building Permits

The first step for building in Oakland is getting a permit. A permit ensures that the planned work is safe and meets building codes. Permits are given by the Office of Planning and Building. You need permits for:

• New construction
• Demolition
• House moves
• Major repairs
• Additions
• Alterations
• Electrical work
• Plumbing work
• Mechanical work

You need permits for both residential and commercial jobs. Turn in the permit application to the Office of Planning and Building website. All permit applications are handled online. You can also check the permit status on the website. If you need a plan check, turn the plan into the Office of Planning and Building in Oakland. The plan check takes 4-6 weeks. Special engineering could take longer to check. The staff will also give plans to the Fire Services agency to check the fire safety system. This takes 1-10 days.

California also has strict building codes. Review codes 8, 19, 21, 24, and 25 to see the requirements.

Building Inspections

An inspector will check to make sure that the work matches the approved plans for construction. You can schedule an inspection at least one business day in advance. During busy times, it could take several days to get an appointment. You’ll need several inspections until the job is done. City inspectors must check certain things, including:

• Concrete or grout
• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
• Framing
• Stucco
• Insulation
• Shower walls
• Waterproofing
• Roofing
• Fire protection
• Shafts
• Gas and electrical
• Water and sewer

When you schedule an inspection, you need:

• Permit number
• Property address
• Requested Date
• Type of inspection
• Contact information

You can schedule a building inspection online, by phone, or in person.

Contractor Licenses

Contractors working in Oakland need a state-issued contractor license. When applying for a license, you need:

• An Oakland business license
• At least four years of experience and skills
• Proof of insurance

Contractors also have to pass the state business and law exams. California has three kinds of licenses. Engineers get a Class A. General contractors get Class B. Specialty contractors get Class C.

Contractor Liability Coverage

A contractor working in Oakland has to have insurance. It protects the equipment and job site. The state of California has a minimum amount of insurance coverage. This is $1 million aggregate for up to five employees. Companies with more than five employees need an extra $100,000 in coverage for each person. Workers’ compensation is also necessary. This insurance protects your employees if they get hurt while working.

Construction Equipment Rental in Oakland, California

If you need extra items for construction, think about renting them. Aerial equipment is expensive so renting it can save you money. Examples include manlifts, boom lifts, forklifts, and scissor lifts. With the right equipment, you can take on more work.