So, You Want to Know When Your Building Was Built? Let's Get Down to Business (or Pleasure)
Alright, so you're curious about when your LA abode first saw the light of day, huh? Let's dive into the thrilling world of building permits and historical records. I know, it sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry, but trust me, there’s more to this than meets the eye.
Your Building: A Time Capsule (Maybe)
Think of your building as a time capsule. It's seen it all: flappers dancing the Charleston, Elvis shaking his hips, and probably a few too many Kardashian reality shows. Deciphering its age is like solving a historical mystery, without the dead bodies and dramatic reenactments.
But why does it matter? Well, knowing your building's age can be surprisingly useful. It might help you understand its quirks (like that wonky plumbing or the creaky floors), determine its potential value, or simply satisfy your inner history buff.
Uncovering Your Building's Birth Certificate
Step 1: Gather Your Clues Before you start digging through dusty archives, arm yourself with information. You'll need your building's address, and ideally, the names of previous owners. Any old photos or documents could also be goldmines of information.
Step 2: Consult the Oracles of Information Now comes the fun part (said no one ever). Your first stop should be the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). They have a treasure trove of building permits and records. Be prepared to do some online sleuthing or, if you're feeling adventurous, visit their office.
Step 3: Get Creative (or Desperate) If LADBS comes up empty-handed, don't despair. You can try contacting the local historical society, checking old city directories, or even hiring a professional building historian. It's like being a detective, but with less danger and more paperwork.
Potential Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)
- Recordkeeping Woes: Let's face it, bureaucracy isn't always the most efficient. Records might be incomplete, inaccurate, or simply nonexistent.
- Building Alterations: Your building might have undergone major renovations or additions, making it tricky to pin down its original construction date.
- Time is Money: Hiring a professional can be costly, so weigh the benefits against the expense.
How to...
- How to find old building records in LA? Start with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.
- How to determine the age of my building if there are no records? Consider hiring a building historian or consulting local historical societies.
- How to read old building permits? Some online resources and historical societies can provide guidance.
- How to find the original plans for my building? Check with the LADBS or local architectural archives.
- How to estimate the value of my building based on its age? Consult with a real estate agent or appraiser.
So there you have it. Uncovering your building's birthdate might be a challenge, but with a little patience and determination, you can crack the case. Happy sleuthing!
