recent building permits…
Michigan has 1,310 building permits on file right now, with 516 new permits filed in just the last 30 days. That's steady construction activity across the state, and it means there are real opportunities to find new work if you know where to look. Detroit leads permit activity in Michigan. The renovation permit type dominates the market with 1,021 permits on file, followed by 289 other permit types. This tells you something important: most of the work happening isn't new construction. It's rehab jobs, upgrades, and repairs. That's where roofers, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and electricians find the most consistent lead flow. Contractors who monitor permit data gain an advantage. You can identify jobs in your service area before they're publicly bid out, reach property owners and GCs while they're still in the planning phase, and build relationships that turn into repeat work. The permits are filed. The projects are real. You just need to know how to find them.
Building permits are your primary source. When a permit is filed, the project is officially underway. By monitoring permits in your service areas and trade types, you get early notification before general contractors send out bids to multiple vendors. Filter by permit type (renovation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing) and city to focus on the work that matches your business. Then reach out directly to the contractor or property owner listed on the permit. This direct approach works better than waiting for bid requests.
Detroit is the most active city in Michigan with 1,310 permits on file. This concentration of activity makes Detroit a prime area for contractors to focus lead generation efforts. Monitor Detroit permits regularly and consider expanding your service area or staffing around the activity level you see there. Other Michigan cities will have permits as well, so search your specific service territory to find local opportunities.
Renovation permits are the dominant permit type in Michigan with 1,021 permits on file, representing the majority of construction activity. Other permit types account for 289 permits. This breakdown means renovation work is more abundant than new construction in Michigan right now. If you're a roofer, electrician, plumber, or HVAC contractor, renovation projects are where you'll find the most leads. These jobs involve roof replacements, system upgrades, and code compliance work that requires specialized trades.