Now what is a Building Permit (BP) exactly?
 In fancy terms, A building permit is an approval recognized by law from your City for you to start or continue construction; whether that's an alteration, reconstruction, demolition, removal, relocation, changes to the occupancy of any building or structure, or other work related to construction. 

This is to ensure you comply with safety, health, and building and zoning requirements of your City and your Province or State, and any other regulations set in your area, like design guidelines, if it’s a requirement of your City.

What happens if you don’t get a permit?
 What it boils down to, if you’re caught, you can receive construction delays at a minimum and at its worst, possible legal action and the removal of the work that was completed.

If you haven't read it and you're interested in learning about what happens when you choose to not get a building permit, read this article.

What are the benefits of a building permit?
 In broad terms, a permit ensures that qualified professionals review drawings, plans, and other requirements to confirm that necessary codes and bylaws are being followed.

But the big one, your home's value can go up and liabilities can go down. For example, permitted suites should give you more income than illegal suites and insurance is covered for any damages to the addition, renovation or new build, like fire or flood.

Who should submit your building permit?
While Contractors or Architects / Architectural Designers may insist, I believe homeowners should fill out their own application form. The reason is you will always be kept in the loop. Whether that’s being included in the communication or be the only line of communication (generally via. email) and you pass on the information, either way you are a key part of the team. However, it's a great idea to add the Architect/ural Designer and or Contractor as the representative(s) so they are also kept in the loop.