Construction Equipment Rental in Grand Rapids, MI

About Construction Projects in Grand Rapids, MI

Before you start a construction job in Grand Rapids, Michigan, you need to know how to do business in the city. After all, every city requires paperwork and insurance before you can break ground. Find out what kind of permits, licenses, and insurance coverage you need for a construction project in Grand Rapids.

Building Permits

To keep people and property safe, the city of Grand Rapids follows strict building codes and construction regulations. No matter what kind of building project you’re planning, the city requires you to obtain a building permit before you start. You’ll need one for constructing, moving, replacing, or repairing a building or its systems.

Grand Rapids offers several types of permits. These are some of the most common types:

• Re-roofing or re-siding a single-family residential building
• Installing a pool
• Constructing a deck
• Building or demolishing a small residential property
• Installing a fence over 30 inches
• Altering plumbing or electrical systems on any property

Building Inspections

In Grand Rapids, you must schedule a building inspection after each major part of any construction project. The inspector makes sure that the work matches the plans in the permit. Make sure to schedule an inspection at least 24 hours in advance. Inspections cost $85 per hour, and you’ll owe extra fees for weekend inspections or delaying the process.

Contractor Licenses

Contractors need licenses to do most construction jobs in Grand Rapids. To obtain one, contractors have to pass an exam and apply for a license through the state of Michigan. Then they must register in Grand Rapids. This ensures that only qualified individuals build, fix, and demolish structures in the area. The following types of contractors must have current licenses to work in Grand Rapids:

• Residential Builders
• Electricians
• HVAC and Mechanical Contractors
• Plumbers
• Insulation Contractors
• Swimming Pool Installers
• Tile Installers
• Roofers
• Masons

Contractor Coverage

In most cities and states, contractors need to have liability insurance or bonds. These types of coverage protect the contractor and the property in case of an accident. With the right insurance and bonds, you won’t go bankrupt if an injury takes place or if property damage occurs.

The state of Michigan doesn’t require a certain amount of insurance. However, local brokers recommend that contractors and small construction businesses have between $500,000 and $1 million in general liability insurance. This amount of coverage should protect your company and put your clients at ease.

Construction Equipment in Grand Rapids

Whether you’re doing a big job or a small project, you need the right equipment. Buying lifts can cost big bucks and lead to storage and maintenance hassles. Instead of buying outright, consider renting the right machine for the job. These types of aerial equipment are easy to rent on a per-job basis, and might include:

• Boom lifts
• Forklifts
• Man lifts
• Scissor lifts

If you do business in Grand Rapids, you should never take on a job without the right paperwork. Get the equipment you need and secure the right permits, licenses, and inspections before you begin to work.