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Bahamas – Property Building and Renovation

Planning Permission in the Bahamas

In the Bahamas, it is necessary to apply for planning permission to build or renovate a property. The procedure is as follows:

  • Obtain a project from an architect or building designer
  • Submit the project to the Ministry of Works for approval
  • Once approved, obtain a building permit from the Ministry of Works

Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, and Preservation Orders

If your property is listed or located within a conservation area or preservation order, there are additional rules and regulations to follow.

  • Listed buildings require approval from the Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corporation for any alterations or renovations
  • Conservation areas and preservation orders may have restrictions on the type of changes that can be made to the property’s exterior

Finding Reliable Builders in the Bahamas

When looking for a builder in the Bahamas, it’s important to find someone reliable and trustworthy. One way to do this is to look for builders who belong to a professional organization.

  • The Bahamas Contractors Association (BCA) is a professional organization that represents builders and contractors in the Bahamas. They can be contacted at info@bahamascontractors.org or +1 242-356-0264.

Permits and Licences

When building or renovating a property in the Bahamas, there are several permits and licenses you may need to obtain.

  • Building permit: Required for any new construction or major renovation
  • Electrical permit: Required for any electrical work
  • Plumbing permit: Required for any plumbing work

Finding a Local Architect in the Bahamas

If you need an architect to design your project, you can find one through the Bahamas Society of Architects.

Buying Land in the Bahamas

If you’re buying land in the Bahamas, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of.


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  • Make sure you have planning permission before purchasing land
  • Check the boundaries of the land to ensure they match the land registry
  • Be aware of any environmental or conservation restrictions that may affect the land
  • Check for any outstanding taxes or liens on the land