Co-owners:

A number of M-72 storage units have changed hands over the last couple of years. New owners typically want to make changes to a new property; maybe it's time for a friendly reminder that building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits are required whenever modifications to the limited common element (storage unit interior) are contemplated. Keep in mind that buildings 5800 and 5802 are categorized as “Commercial” construction. There are significant differences between commercial and residential building codes.

Here's a short history: In the Spring of 2016, a Long Lake Township code enforcement official was “cruising” through our campus and noted that modification to the interior of a storage unit was underway. The co-owner of the unit was unable to produce a construction permit; the result was a $500 fine and a stop work order.

The Association Board then received a request from the Grand Traverse County Building office for an inspection of all M-72 Storage Units. The resulting inspections verified that few building permits for the many modifications observed in the units existed.

The county code enforcement office then advised the Association Board it contemplated voiding occupancy permits for Buildings 5800 and 5802. The permits issued in 2005 were for the two buildings, not individual units. This meant co-owners wouldn’t have access to their units until all 19 storage units were certified in compliance. We won’t bore you with the bloody details, but it took over a year and extensive negotiations before all permitting and inspections for the two buildings were completed and certified as meeting code.

The County initially required that storage units must comply with the Americans with the Disabilities Act (ADA) for Commercial buildings. This requirement was eventually waived because Association property is not open to the public. Appropriate signage is now prominently posted in the Condominium.

Finally, the Board was required submit a request for a change in the originally permitted Building Type IIB certificate to Type 5 which allows wood construction. The change required preparation of appropriate documentation and drawings by an architect and payment of more fees. Final approval for Building Construction Type 5 was granted via a letter from the County Code Office dated August 8, 2017.

Bottom Line: Obtaining permits for modifications to limited common elements is relatively inexpensive and painless when compared to the alternative. If you have questions, ask a Board member for advice.

Here are your contact points for construction permits in Grand Traverse County: This includes mechanical, building, electrical and plumbing permits.

1. Grand Traverse County permit office: 2650 Lafranier Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686. (231) 995-6044. We’ve found them to be helpful and your primary contact point for permits.

2. Long Lake Township code enforcement and planning: 8870 North Long Lake Rd. Traverse City, MI 49685 Phone: 231-946-2249, Fax: 231-946-4573 These offices are also involved in permitting matters and must be consulted. The staff understands we are not a construction experts and very cooperative.