1) How important are signs?
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) web site has a very good article on this. Click here to read more.
Signs are the most cost effective and affordable means of advertising for most businesses, and signs are always available to advertise, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. When compared to any other advertising media, on a per cost viewing basis, signs are arguably the least cost / view.
2) Do I need permits for a sign?
In 99% of cases, on premise signs fall under the jurisdiction of either a City or County entity, sometimes both, who have established sign codes which dictate the type, height, and size of sign approved for that specific area. If the tenant falls in a enforceable jurisdiction, yes, sign permits are required. A licensed sign contractor (e.g. Momentum Signs) will need to obtain permits.
3) When is a permit required? Why do I need to get a permit if I am a new tenant in a shopping center?
All businesses doing business in the City or County need to have what is called a Certificate of Occupancy or Building Permit. Those need to be filed and applied before a Sign Contractor can obtain a sign permit. Any new electrical device, e.g. new sign on the wall, even though it may be for the same tenant, and an old sign permit is still valid, will require a new sign permit. Any structural change to a pylon or monument sign will require a new permit. In most cases, the City will require the same set of documents as would be needed for a totally new sign, before permits will be issued. Click here for more information on permits and sign administration in the City of Houston.
4) Can I have a logo on my sign?
Most landlords have a sign criteria which specifies the letter size and style. Furthermore, they will also specify if a logo can be incorporated into the sign.
5) I don't have a logo. Can you design one for me?
Yes, our services are turn key. We will design a “sign friendly” logo, one which will look good on your letterhead as well as translate to a meaningful and visual display on your storefront. The logo and design will remain the property of Momentum Signs, unless the sign is purchased from Momentum at which point Momentum will release the ownership rights of that logo.
6) What are Electronic Message Centers?
Electronic variable message centers are computerized programmable electronic visual communication devices. They are capable of storing and displaying multiple messages in dozens of formats and at varying intervals. Similar to reader boards, they allow their owners to change copy frequently, but without the cost of replacing missing or broken letters, and without the physical labor involved in changing copy. The SBA web site has more information on EMCs.
7) What are easements? Why can't I install my pole sign where I want to on my property?
Before a City entity will issue permits to install a ground sign, it is necessary to prove that the placement in question does not violate any easements on the property.
Wikipedia defines easements as an interest to use real property in possession of another person for a stated purpose. An example of an easement may be a sewer line easement, utility easement. Easements may be aerial in nature too. In essence, an easement on the property usually implies that unless consent to encroach is provided by the entity in possession of the easement, a sign structure will not be permitted within that easement.
8) How do I find out if I have easements on my property?
In most cases, a properly conducted land survey will show meets and bounds, and also indicate any easements on record. If a land survey is not available, we can contract with third party companies, who for a fee, will perform an easement search, specifically for sign easement purposes. Services include locating recorded easements, provide a copy of easement documents, provide a map with location highlighted.
9) How does the sign design process start?
To begin with, we try to integrate the sign design with an architectural element or nature of the business. Reference measurements and photographs are obtained during the initial survey, landlord criteria and sign ordinance is reviewed to ensure sign can be approved. A scaled rendering is provided to the client showing how the sign will look when completed.
10) What is the typical time frame to get my sign?
It all depends on the project and the information provided. If we already have a initial design, budget, and realistic parameters from the client, the time frame to design the project is considerably shortened. However, if we start from scratch, and work our way through various revisions and cost factors, the process does take longer. From the time we have all approvals in hand, 4 weeks are adequate to fabricate and install most wall signs and 6 – 8 weeks are typical for ground pylon signs. However, this time frame does not take into account any delays due to permit, easement or landlord approval issues.
11) How much will my sign cost?
Each sign is a custom designed and manufactured product. No two signs are identical. As such, it is virtually impossible to give someone an accurate quote until the design has been established. Click here to get started on a quote.
12) What warranty does Momentum Signs offer?
Most of our products are warrantied for at least 1 year for any manufacturing defect, which includes all lamps and ballasts, (which are usually exempted by other manufacturers). Digital LED message message units are warrantied for 1 year, parts and labor, and 4 additional years parts only.
13) What if a sign company quoting my job is not licensed?
A non licensed sign company cannot obtain permits from a City or County Entity. As such, any work performed by them is illegal. Any signs installed by such a company may be subject to fines, penalties and removal if the signs do not conform to established sign ordinances.
14) What if a sign company quoting my job is not insured?
Consult your own insurance company. In most cases, the landlord or your insurance company will insist on a Certificate of Insurance before allowing a vendor to work on their property. This is essential to protect your interests in the event of any accident or injury.
15) I need some repair work on my sign. Can I get my handyman to do the repairs?
Only a licensed Journey Man under the supervision of a Master Sign Electrician is permitted to work on an electrical sign.
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