PermitFlow vs. permit expediters

If you want to avoid costly delays in the permit application process, you might consider investing in permitting services. Two options to assess are PermitFlow and traditional permit expediter services.

Keep reading as we break down the differences between PermitFlow and permit expediters, including their pros and cons, pricing, and features.

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PermitFlow vs. permit expediters: What’s the difference?

PermitFlow is intuitive workflow software that helps users identify the optimal building permitting process and required application forms for a given project, and then easily complete the necessary paperwork to prepare and submit a robust application package.

In contrast, a permit expediter is someone you hire to help you obtain a building permit and navigate the application process. Permit expediters are usually local experts who understand the project’s local building codes and specialize in obtaining certain types of permits.

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How PermitFlow works

PermitFlow is easy-to-use cloud-based software that you can access from anywhere to streamline every part of the process, from permit research to permit management and monitoring.

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PermitFlow offers an easy six-step process:

1. Request a free quote. Submit a quick project intake form and get an accurate quote with estimated approval timelines from PermitFlow’s team of experts.
2. Prepare your application. Complete the necessary permit application paperwork all within PermitFlow. The process is digitized to minimize errors, save time, and reduce costs.
3. Submit your application. Submit via PermitFlow to avoid having to decipher municipal websites. PermitFlow handles the local nuances of each submission whether it’s online or in-person.
4. Track your application. Track each submittal and get notified instantly with any municipal responses. PermitFlow monitors everything for you and updates time estimates accordingly.
5. Easily make corrections. Access municipal comments and corrections directly in the PermitFlow platform. Triage, address, and resubmit all in one place.
6. Get approved. Effortlessly pay any remaining fees, receive your permit, and get started on your project.

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How a permit expediter works

Permit expediters are service providers who generally work locally. They may work independently and operate their own expediting businesses, or be employed by a construction company.

Whether they operate solo or as part of a larger organization, permit expediters are expected to be well-versed in their jurisdiction’s local laws and building codes. Many also have relationships with local building department employees.

If you opt to hire a permit expediter, you will likely bring the expediter on as a contractor for your project.

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Pricing

Pricing for both PermitFlow and a permit expediter depends on the scope of your project.  

PermitFlow pricing is calculated based on factors like the type of permit you need and the jurisdiction your project is in. Plus, PermitFlow offers discounts tiered on project volume and spend. Ultimately, their team is committed to getting you the best results for the best price.

The cost of a permit expediter varies wildly depending on the company you choose, where the project is located, and the type of permit you need.

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PermitFlow vs. permit expediter cost

In most cases, PermitFlow will be cheaper than hiring a permit expediter because it doesn’t require working with someone one-on-one who may bill hourly or charge hefty flat rates that don’t account for various factors.

In some situations — particularly straightforward projects in smaller towns — the ROI of hiring a permit expediter may not actually pay off.

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Pros & cons

Before choosing permit software or a permitting service provider, assess the pros and cons of each one.

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PermitFlow pros & cons

Pros:

• End-to-end platform that manages everything in one place.
• Cloud-based software that you can access from anywhere.
• Save hours of time and shorten municipal review cycles by as much as 60%.
• Nationwide coverage.
• Can be used for any project in any location.
• The PermitFlow team includes architects, structural engineers, permitting experts, and workflow software specialists who understand the ins and outs of permitting.
• Integrates with Procore and Autodesk.

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Cons:

• May require basic knowledge of technology to navigate the software.

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Permit expediter pros & cons

Pros:

• A traditional service provider that is generally easy to find in any given region.
• May have connections with local professionals and building department officials who oversee permitting.
• Will save time compared to preparing and submitting the application in-house.

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Cons:

• Unnecessary in certain situations, like straightforward projects in smaller jurisdictions.
• Costs can add up quickly depending on how the permit expediter bills you.
• May lack expertise if they work for a larger company that provides other services.
• Limited knowledge for multiple jurisdictions.
• Usually only works on projects within a certain geographic area.
• Expediter may be juggling several other projects, leaving them unable to devote the proper time and attention to yours.

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Which permit service is best?

For most builders, PermitFlow is the better choice than a permit expediter because it empowers you to effortlessly manage multiple projects whether in a single municipality or across multiple states.

You can think of PermitFlow as the TurboTax of construction permitting. It’s a user-friendly platform designed to walk you through the complicated permitting process.

You can do everything from the PermitFlow platform, including:

• Permit submissions
• Tracking your permit applications
• Municipal back and forth
• Application revisions 
• Issuance and fee payments

Plus, PermitFlow makes it easy for everyone to access the same information, so all stakeholders stay aligned. 

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Discover the PermitFlow advantage

Stop wasting time trying to navigate and decipher municipal websites. Instead, opt for PermitFlow’s end-to-end permit software.  

With PermitFlow, you’ll:

• Save time
• Reduce errors
• Increase transparency

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