You’ll probably never have to worry about building permits… until you embark on a residential remodeling project.

Your local building department is responsible for issuing home renovation permits. A building inspector has to review your home renovation plans and see if they meet your local building codes and ordinances. This is your way of guaranteeing that your project follows code and the construction is safe and consistent.

As a remodeling contractor is more qualified than you or a handyman to tackle this project, it’s best to avoid going DIY in an attempt to save money. If you do hire a contractor, it’s best to have them pull the permits for you. The law holds whoever is named on the permit responsible for the job and for meeting codes.

Why Are Permits Important?

There are several good reasons you have to get a permit for your home renovation:

  • Complying with local laws and building codes helps ensure your investment is not devalued due to violations.

  • It helps you avoid problems with your insurance company, which can happen if they find out you built it without inspections and permits.

  • You can avoid problems if you ever have to sell your property. Multiple listing associations are going to require you to disclose whatever repairs and renovations you made to your home. They will also ask for permits. Most companies that finance home purchases will turn down a property if a final inspection was not done. In many areas, if you don’t have a permit for a renovation, you will be required to remove it or leave it unoccupied.

  • If your property passed inspections and you secure permits, that means it’s safe. Without an inspection, you might be putting your household or anyone who buys your property at risk of accidents.

  • You adhere to the law when you get permits for your home renovation.

 Do All Changes Require Permits?

No. It depends on the scope of the project. In some areas, for example, you can replace your main entry door without a permit, but if you have to create a new wall opening for a new door, you will need a permit. Other projects that require permits:

Remodeling

  • Creating a new wall opening for a window

  • Adding a skylight to your roof

  • Installing a fireplace

  • Replacing your roof

Home Addition

  • Adding a new living space

  • Adding a garage

  • Adding a sunroom

  • Adding any room that affects the footprint of your home

Structural Changes

  • Adding a wall

  • Tearing down a wall

  • Adding a bathroom in your basement

  • Converting your garage to a living space

  • Adding to your roofline

There are many other home improvement projects that require inspections and permits, and there are also many projects that don’t. To find out whether you need a permit for the project you’re planning, it’s best to ask your contractor or visit your local building department.

Kingdom Restoration can help with your residential construction and renovation projects. We can also pull the necessary permits for you. Call us today at (941) 263-8715 or use this form to tell us more about your project.