What a building permit record tells you
A permit record usually includes the address, the permit type, a short description of the work, the date it was issued, and sometimes the project value and the contractor or owner. Together these tell you that real construction work has been approved at a specific property.
Why permits matter before the work starts
Most permits are issued before or as work begins. Many projects need several trades in sequence: a new pool often needs fencing, concrete and landscaping; a new home needs nearly every trade. Seeing the first permit gives you time to reach out before the downstream work is awarded.
The problem: the data is scattered
Every city runs its own permit system. Some publish open data portals, some publish spreadsheets, some only offer a search screen. Checking them daily, comparing yesterday to today, and filtering for your trade takes hours each week.
A simple routine that works
Pick the markets you actually serve. Check new permits on a fixed schedule. Focus on the permit types that lead to your work. Keep notes on which ones you contacted and which turned into jobs, so you learn which permit types pay off.
Use the data respectfully
Permit records are public, but the people behind them did not ask to be contacted. Lead with something useful, follow local rules for marketing, and never pressure property owners.
