8 things to know before starting a backyard renovation
A comprehensive guide outlines eight critical steps for planning a backyard renovation, emphasizing the importance of groundwork over aesthetics. The article stresses that permits, utility locates, drainage, soil tests, and proper sequencing are essential to avoid costly mistakes. It advises checking local building codes and HOA rules, calling 811 before digging, ensuring proper drainage and grading, confirming property lines and easements, testing soil, knowing USDA hardiness zones, building hardscaping before planting, and obtaining multiple contractor quotes with verified licensing and insurance. The guide highlights that unpermitted work can lead to legal and financial issues, and that proper planning saves money and time.
Key facts
- Most permanent backyard structures require a permit, and skipping it can cause problems during home sales.
- Call 811 before any digging to locate buried utility lines; it's free and legally required in some states.
- The ground within 10 feet of a house's foundation should drop at least six inches for proper drainage.
- Confirm property lines and easements before building to avoid disputes and costly removals.
- Soil tests reveal pH, nutrients, and texture, guiding plant choices and amendments.
- USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map updated in November 2023, shifting half the country to warmer zones.
- Build hardscaping before planting to avoid damage from construction traffic.
- Get at least three written quotes from licensed, insured contractors, and verify licenses and insurance.
Entities
Institutions
- USDA
- International Residential Code
- HOA
Locations
- United States
- California
- Nevada
Sources
- Quartz —