Do You Need a Building Permit to Remodel Your Property?

All new construction and renovation projects require approval & building permits from local authorities. Your project must be approved before you can start the work. It does not matter whether you are planning to replace the countertops or have decided to install new fencing around the house. In most states of the US, you will need a building permit for all small and significant renovation tasks, and there is a small fee for getting that permit.

You might be surprised to know how much it costs to get a complete renovation project approved by local authorities. For a complete home remodel, the building permits can cost you hundreds of dollars. It may seem tempting to forget about those permits and just remodel the house as you want, after all, it is your house.

However, you cannot do it.

Every change in your home structure is recorded. If you are planning to sell the house, the prospective buyers can search for the repairs made. It is crucial that all changes be approved otherwise the property inspectors will question your intentions and lenders might raise legal issues.

The question is, when do you need a building permit? Is it required for every renovation project?

Which Home Remodeling Projects Require a Building Permit?

You do not need a permit for every sort of project, but generally, these types of tasks require the approval:

• Structural Changes
• Electric Repairs
• Plumbing Work
• Mechanical Tasks

Extending the Space

Addition of a room, basement, bathroom or a wall will always require a building permit, no exception. Any extensions must also be approved before remodeling. If you are planning to add space to your house or if you are planning to expand kitchen/bath, you’ll need approval. This is done to ensure that your home is structurally safe and there is no illegal construction going on.

Roof Repairs

Replacing a shingle or two is not an issue, but major roof repairs must be registered with local authorities. These projects include modifying the roofline, roofing material or changing the pitch. The roof above your head, if not repaired properly, can make the entire house unstable so it is important to call professional contractors, get the project approved and make sure the work is done according to local guidelines.

Replacing/Fixing Heating Systems

Adding or repairing a fireplace requires a building permit. Because of fire issues, you cannot replace your old heater without the permit. Installation of a new air condition might also require a permit.

Sewerage

Plumbing fixtures always require a building permit. In case of sewerage issues, you are repairing the pipeline. A minor mistake can create safety issues for everyone involved in the local society.

If you are replacing the entire plumbing system in your house, then you are undertaking a significant renovation project, and you cannot proceed further without a remodeling permit.

Installing New Windows

If you are going to install windows that are bigger than the size of current windows, well, then you need a building permit. You will need to create holes to adjust the new windows, and this step requires professional work and authority approval.

Similarly, installing a new fence (mostly above 6 feet) requires a special building permit. Most societies do not allow you to create a fence that is 6+ feet high.

Electrical Work

Replacing electric wiring should not be considered a ‘DIY’ project. Other than replacing light fixtures, each project should be handled by a professional contractor according to the guidelines established. Repairing or changing the wiring system without a building permit can have severe consequences. In case of the sale of a house, the sale may be postponed, or you may have to replace the entire wiring system at the time of sale.

Contact us for more information.

Resources:

https://www.redfin.com/blog/2014/10/which-home-improvement-projects-require-a-permit.html

https://www.thespruce.com/permit-for-your-renovation-project-1822428