Common LADBS Mistakes That Cause Delays
Navigating the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) can be one of the most time-consuming parts of any construction project. Whether you’re planning an ADU, addition, remodel, or new build, small mistakes during plan check or permit submittal can lead to months of avoidable delays.
At Land Works Consulting, we see the same issues come up again and again. Below are the most common LADBS mistakes that slow projects down and how to prevent them.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Plan Sets
One of the biggest causes of LADBS corrections is submitting plans that don’t fully match across disciplines.
Common issues include:
Architectural plans that don’t align with structural sheets
Missing dimensions, notes, or details
Inconsistent square footage or room labels
Plans not reflecting existing site conditions
Even minor discrepancies can trigger multiple rounds of corrections.
How to avoid it:
Before submittal, plans should be reviewed holistically architectural, structural, Title 24, and site conditions all working together.
Missing Required Documents at Submittal
LADBS requires specific documents depending on the project scope, zoning, and location. Missing just one can stall the entire review process.
Frequently overlooked items:
Title 24 energy reports
Soils or geology reports
Existing conditions documentation
Fire department clearances (when applicable)
Owner authorizations or affidavits
How to avoid it:
Each project needs a tailored submittal checklist not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Zoning and Code Assumptions
Many delays happen when plans are designed based on assumptions rather than verified zoning and code requirements.
Examples include:
Setback violations
Exceeding allowable height or FAR
Incorrect ADU classifications
Parking miscalculations
When zoning issues are flagged during plan check, revisions can be extensive and time-consuming.
How to avoid it:
A zoning and feasibility review should happen before plans are finalized not after submittal.
Poorly Prepared Correction Responses
Receiving LADBS corrections is normal but how you respond matters.
Common mistakes:
Partial or vague responses
Ignoring certain comments
Revising plans without clearly addressing the correction list
Resubmitting without a coordinated response letter
This often leads to repeat corrections and longer review cycles.
How to avoid it:
Correction responses should be clear, organized, and fully coordinated across all plan sets.
No Active Follow-Up with LADBS
Submitting plans is only part of the process. Without follow-up, projects can sit untouched in queues longer than necessary.
Issues we often see:
Missed resubmittal windows
Delays in routing between departments
No escalation when plans stall
How to avoid it:
Active permit management tracking status, communicating with reviewers, and following up strategically keeps projects moving.
How Land Works Consulting Helps Prevent Permit Delays
At Land Works Consulting, we manage the permit process from start to finish so your project doesn’t get stuck in the LADBS system.
Our services include:
Permit strategy + feasibility studies
Zoning and code analysis
Complete permit submittal management
LADBS correction responses
Ongoing city coordination and follow-ups
On-site support and inspection coordination
Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, architect, or developer, our goal is simple: reduce delays, avoid rework, and keep your project on schedule.
Need Help With an LADBS Permit?
If your project is stalled or you want to avoid delays before submitting Land Works Consulting is here to help.
📍 Serving Los Angeles, LA County, Glendale, Pasadena, and surrounding cities
Contact us to get started today