Help with permits and finishing rehab

[Gary Komenaka]

Hi, I’m in Honolulu, HI and halfway through the rehab of a condo/Air BnB the city inspector came out and is requiring a bunch of permits which our handyman hasn’t been able to get. Meanwhile a year later, this project is bleeding $$. Does anyone know a GC or someone else who can possibly expedite the permitting process and help complete the rehab? Thanks in advance!

[Isi Nau]

Hey @Gary Komenaka This is always a bummer!  Who contacted the inspector?  If it was the AOAO, you may want to check with them if there are any fines or citations.  These could add up over time, especially if their lawyer is involved in writing letters and reviewing the case.  They charge $300 an hour and have little incentive to work fast.   :)

You'll want to hire a permit expediter to help move the permits along, although this isn't a magic bullet.  Honolulu permits are ridiculous.  I have an expediter we've used if your interested.  You'll also likely need an architect for the drawing.

Since it's a small property the scope of the renovation was probably small, and if it's after the fact permits, you could likely get away without hiring a GC, but you'll need to hire licensed guys to sign off on the different phases of the permit.

Good luck!