Why You Need to Pull Permits When Doing a Remodel
Why You Need to Pull Permits When Doing a Remodel
Before you begin any home remodeling project, it’s important to understand your local permitting regulations and how they may impact your plans. You can think of a permit as a kind of permission slip that ensures your home stays in compliance with city standards and codes. Permits aren’t just about meeting code; they also help make sure that your construction project doesn’t have any negative effects on the properties around you. When you’re planning a home remodel, there are lots of considerations that go beyond the aesthetic details. From structural elements like load-bearing walls to electrical components like outlets and switches, nearly every aspect of a structure is governed by local codes designed to keep occupants safe. When you pull permits for a remodel, these details are all taken into account so that you can move forward with certainty.
Why You Need to Pull Permits When Doing a Remodel
Why You Need a Permit for a Remodel
The short answer: You don’t want to break the law. It’s true that in some places, you have to have a permit for a brand new home, but almost every jurisdiction has rules governing remodels as well. In most places, you need a permit for structural alterations as well as for electrical work, and sometimes more than one permit is required. Local jurisdictions have their own rules for determining when a permit is required. Most places have adopted the International Residential Code, which spells out the rules for home construction. These codes require a permit for any project involving the structure and related elements like the roof, the foundation, the plumbing system and the electrical system.
Structural Changes Require a Permit
If you’re remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, you might not need to get a permit, but if you’re making changes to your load-bearing walls, you’re going to need to pull a permit. There are a few ways you might be able to get away with not getting a permit. In some cases, if you’re just replacing an old counter with a new one, you may be able to get away with not pulling a permit. However, if you have any doubt, err on the side of caution and get your permit pulled. If you make changes that alter the structure of your home, you need a permit. If you’re adding or removing load-bearing walls, adding a second story or making any other changes that could have an impact on the strength of your home, you need a permit.
Why You Need to Pull Permits When Doing a Remodel
Electrical Changes Require a Permit
Electrical work often requires permits even if you’re just replacing a breaker or upgrading the wiring. This is because electrical work has to conform to code, and no two jurisdictions use the same code. Electrical work often requires a permit because many regulations pertain only to electrical work. Some jurisdictions require permits for all electrical work, and others make permits mandatory only for work that involves things like new circuits or rewiring. Local codes vary, so it’s important to check with your municipality to find out what the rules are.
Breathing and Venting Changes Also Require a Permit
If you’re adding new ductwork or making changes to the way the air flows in your home, you’re probably going to need a permit. This is true even if you’re simply upgrading your central AC or furnace. If adding new ductwork or making changes to the way the air flows in your home; you’re going to need a permit. If you’re making changes to your HVAC system; you’ll probably need a permit. There are a few ways you might be able to get away with not getting a permit. In some cases, if you’re simply replacing an old duct with a new one; you may be able to get away with not getting a permit. However, if you have any doubt, err on the side of caution and get your permit pulled.
Conclusion
When it comes to home remodels, permits are your friend. Beyond simply ensuring that you meet code; permits also allow you to have some peace of mind that you’re not negatively impacting your neighbors. Depending on your project, you may need several permits from different departments. When you’re getting ready to begin a remodel, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Depending on the scope of your project, you may need more than one permit.
1 Trackback