Expanding a home or business through a construction addition is an excellent way to enhance quality of life, adapt the property to evolving needs, and even increase its market value. However, behind every addition, whether it’s enclosing a balcony, adding a new room, extending a kitchen, building a Residential Protected Space (RPS), designing a pergola, installing a pool or jacuzzi, or any other type of structural extension—lies a complex professional process. This process requires obtaining a building permit and meeting strict engineering and safety standards. Involving a structural engineer (constructor) from the very beginning ensures practical, professional, and safe engineering planning, while fully complying with all the necessary regulations for successful project execution. Here is everything you need to know:
A construction addition refers to any expansion or modification of an existing building area, whether external or internal, that requires a change to the original building plan. This may include, among others:
In every case where the structure undergoes a physical change, it is essential to ensure compliance with the Planning and Building Law, valid zoning plans, and all relevant engineering standards.
According to Israeli law, a permit for a construction addition is required in any case involving a significant structural change. A permit application will typically be reviewed in the following situations:
Obtaining a permit for a construction addition involves several key stages:
A structural engineer is the professional responsible for the static design of the building and ensuring its safety. In construction additions, their role includes, among others:
B.R.N. Engineering was founded in 1992 and has been involved in a wide range of projects in Israel and abroad, with unique expertise in structural design for all types of construction additions. The company’s founder and chief engineer, Michael Langer, brings extensive knowledge and experience in professional planning across a variety of additions, including room expansions, Residential Protected Space and protected spaces, pergolas, jacuzzis and in-ground swimming pools, as well as other engineering solutions and services.
At B.R.N. Engineering, we work in close collaboration with architects, interior designers, and contractors, providing an end-to-end solution, from the planning stage through to final approval. Our goal is to ensure that every construction addition meets the strictest standards and serves you reliably for many years to come.
The security situation in Israel has led many citizens to add Residential Protected Spaces (Mamad) to buildings lacking proper protection. Constructing a standard-compliant Residential Protected Spaces requires careful load planning and the preparation of detailed engineering plans in accordance with Israeli standards and the guidelines of the Home Front Command.
RPSs can be added to private home yards, apartment buildings, and/or by reinforcing an existing room within the house.
Please note: Following the “Iron Swords” war, the Home Front Command introduced temporary relief measures allowing a fast-track process for building RPSs.
The key update is an exemption from obtaining a local authority building permit when adding a Mamad to structures of no more than two floors, or to housing units without another unit directly above or below them.
RPSs can also be added to buildings with more than two floors; however, in such cases, a full permit is still required.
Contact B.R.N. Engineering today at 050-6785187