Many municipalities have zoning restrictions that require attention before any alterations can take place to an existing structure. If you're going up, you might not have to worry about a zoning board. But, if you're going out, get ready.

• Find out what your setbacks and building lines are in your neighborhood or community. The more you know, the better you will be able to know what you can add on.
• Don't assume anything. Just because your neighbor is 2 feet from the property line, doesn't mean you can be there too.
• Be careful with what you tear down. If you remove a section of the structure that's already over the setback, you might have to reapply for a variance to build where you were.
• Try to steer clear of front additions. Many municipalities are very hesitant to grant a variance to the front setback.
• Get the facts first and ask as many questions as you can. I went over the application with the city manager, but still forgot to include a revised site plan. That easy mistake almost cost us a month.
• The city will usually send letters to all adjacent property owners, but I found it was a good idea to talk with each of them personally to ensure they understood what we were doing and why.
• Have a contingency plan. I went in with plan B in case plan A was not approved. Many municipalities will not allow you to reapply within six months if denied. Ultimately, my plan B was accepted. Without it, I would have been out of luck.