When do I need a permit?

NARI guides homeowners on remodeling project must-dos

Are you considering a home improvement project? The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) reminds homeowners to understand the rules regarding building permits before embarking on common remodeling projects.

Although building codes vary from state to state, a permit is generally required for remodeling projects that involve changes to the building's existing footprint, electrical system or plumbing. Adding new windows to existing walls usually requires a permit. You are likely to need a permit for any project that goes beyond a simple repair or aesthetic upgrade, such as:

  • adding supporting walls or taking down load-bearing walls,
  • an in-ground concrete pool or a porch/deck,
  • replacing the roof,
  • backyard shed or
  • concrete sidewalks, driveways and slabs

“There are two major reasons why a homeowner needs a permit on projects,” says Michael Harris, president of BRY-JO Roofing & Remodeling in Richardson, Texas, whose company won a National CotY Award in the Residential Addition Under $100,000 category.

“The first is because when a permit is filed, city officials will inspect the work completed at different stages to ensure the work complies with current safety and health building codes. The second and most significant reason is it protects the homeowner’s investment they are making to improve the property.

For instance, during a primary bathroom addition completed by prior owners ten years before—without proper permits—BRY-JO discovered plumbing, electrical and framing that was non-compliant and even dangerous, including the removal of two load-bearing beams, which was causing the second-floor room above the bathroom to start pulling away from the home.

Engineered beams were installed in the bathroom and on the exterior wall to support the second story. The city required two concrete piers below the slab foundation to support the slab. All the electrical and plumbing had to be pulled out and rerun.

“Uncovering this information early on, we were able to incorporate as much detail as possible in our estimate and advise the homeowners we would likely uncover some additional surprises, which added more than $8,000 to the bathroom renovation,” Harris says. “They were happy with the final results and relieved that their home was not only beautiful, but safe to live in.”

However, when work is done to refresh an existing structure, a permit is usually unnecessary. For example, updating the appearance of the existing kitchen cabinet doors with laminate layering does not require a permit. Other remodeling updates such as flooring/ceiling coverings, painting/papering, tiling or carpeting and interior wall decorations can usually be done without a building permit. However, even if a permit isn't required, certain projects may require licensed professionals for structural, electrical and plumbing work. If unsure, homeowners can check with their local city or county government office.

Permits need to be obtained before the project gets underway. If city officials spot a project without proper permits, work could be stopped until they are obtained, leaving you without a functioning kitchen or bathroom for weeks and a hefty fine.

If you are using a professional contractor, it’s recommended to have them pull the necessary permits. City officials will likely to have a long list of questions that contractors are best qualified to answer.

“While it may be tempting to forego the permit, a remodel or addition done without one can be a problem if the homeowner decides to sell or refinance,” says attorney Patrick Noaker, from Noaker Law firm, a member in the NARI Minnesota chapter.

If the appraiser’s total of the home's square footage differs from county records, it triggers a search for a permit. If not found, the bank may decline to issue a loan on the house. In today’s housing market, illegal construction is a risk for the lender. A fire insurance carrier, for example, may refuse to honor a claim.

"If there is a wiring problem that causes the home to burn to the ground, the homeowner's insurance company could refuse to cover the loss," Noaker says.

For more information about permits, find a remodeler in your area.

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