Can interior designers sign building permit drawings??

Hello!

I am a registered interior designer here in Washington, DC. I have a friend who wants to renovate their basement (new finishes, fixtures, probably a bathroom and a wet bar). As an interior designer (just recently passed the NCIDQ exams) can I sign drawings that are going for permit review.

Do I need to apply for a building permit for that matter? I've checked the website of our local government here in DC and I'm not getting any help (you wouldn't be surprised if your a DC resident). I can even get a list of what they need for a building permit application!

Any help, advice would be greatly appreciated. I don't want to commit to a job that I might get myself in deep s_it.

Thanks again!!

It's totally dependent upon the 'state' laws. Here in Florida a registered interior designer cannot 'design' load bearing or life safety features but they can sign and seal for permit. As for plumbing and electric, you might develop 'schematic' plans that show only fixtures and have the licensed contractors provide 'shop drawings' prior to THEM pulling the permit.

Check with your licensing board, IIDA, ASID or a local construction law attorney.

Does she plan on being open to the public or is the area to be personally used for her studio?

If you do not have your degree in hand, you are not able to do much of anything on a commercial basis at all. There are building code laws that require permits, bonded & licensed contractors, sub contractors plus buying at wholesale requires a business license in most states if not all.


If the area is not going to be open to the public, you must have building permits for any alterations, additions that are STRUCTURAL. Followed up with an inspector.

Your friend must research and see if the area she wants to do this is zoned to operate personally in house or to the public also. Good luck!

Creatively TRB Studio