Spring is a popular time for building and renovation, and City Hall is reminding Winnipeggers that getting the right paper work before starting any new projects can help save money.
That's advice Shelley Boychuk Bieganowski wishes she had heeded before hiring a contractor to build a garage in her back yard.
She says she used a 24-year-old property survey instead of paying to have a new one done.
After Garage Masters finished building, Bieganowski got a $500 bill from the city, informing her that the building extended six inches farther than it should have.
"We try to talk our customers into getting new surveys if we can but they don't want to it's a costly thing," says Greg Rusk of Garage Masters.
"So we have to go based on what they've given us as the best information that's available."
The city says it is important to make sure you have the right surveys and permits before you build. They recommend getting a staking certificate.
Some examples of projects that require permits include: sheds over 108 sq. ft., swimming pools, and anything to do with plumbing, electrical, or structural alterations to a building.
A complete list is available on their website.
The city says you're tempted to risk it and go without a permit officials usually find out in the end, either during a sale or by a complaint.
They say paying for the right permit up front will cost you less than paying for an infraction later.
With a report from CTV's Rachel Lagac�
