Please read the updated operating procedure as of November 24, 2020.
The Building Inspections Department is following current CDC guidelines when performing its duties (both in the office and in the field). Note the following procedural changes:
Email/Phone Communication Only: All communication will primarily occur by phone or via email until further notice. Due to COVID 19, meetings will need to take place by phone or by a virtual platform such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
Submittal via Drop-Off Box: We are currently not open to the public at our counter, however there is a drop-off box located just outside of our office where permit applications, amendments, and other paperwork can be submitted. Please leave any and all information that you feel necessary with applications. Fees will be calculated at a later date (you will be contacted with the required fee amount and procedures for payment) or feel free to call for an amount prior to submittal. A valid email address is necessary on all permits to receive a response. If there is not a line for an email address, please leave your email address at the bottom of the application.
Proffer Payments: To avoid any delays in issuance of a C.O., cash proffer amounts should be requested at least five (5) days prior to the request for a final inspection. Proffer payments will not be accepted until final inspections have passed.
Inspections: Inspectors may refuse to inspect portions of buildings occupied by individuals diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus, exposed to others with the virus, or display symptoms of illness. Anyone on an inspection site is asked to stay at least six (6) feet away from County staff and have limited communication with them while they are on site. Virtual inspections are now available. Any inspection that requires interior access of an occupied structure will need to be performed via a Zoom meeting or postponed until further notice.
Third Party Inspections: Anyone wishing to have inspections performed in the event that Powhatan County has to close for an extended period will need to have their preferred inspection agency approved prior to any closing. Please forward this information, in email, to the Building Official at ddunivan@powhatanva.gov. Powhatan County Community Development Department expects to remain open as long as possible during this pandemic.
Thank you for working with us during this unique situation, so that we can continue to provide services and ensure the safety of staff and the public. Please check back frequently to view any updates that may take place to ensure the protection of County staff.
