Building Permits

What’s the deal with building permits? Do I need one? Why do I need this? Simple answer....YES! You absolutely need them and if there are signs that your house has been worked on, you should want to know that the appropriate building permits were pulled.

During most home inspections, we can quickly figure out whether or not your home as been worked on. We can also figure out whether or not the work done has been completed by qualified trades. There will be obvious signs in workmanship that will stand out and allow us to understand what is going on. If things look sloppy and unprofessional, chances are your home could have been worked on by unqualified trades and furthermore, building permits were most likely not pulled. Permits means the work on your house has been properly prepared and completed by professionals; this also includes having the work inspected by city code inspectors as the project moves along.

People seem to associate building permits with only large expensive renovations, but it’s not the permit fee that costs the money, it’s the design fee. Properly prepared and stamped architectural drawings can cost big bucks, where the city building permits for these drawings may only cost $100-$200.

Building permits are granted by your local municipality and most municipalities differs as to which permits are required and when. Generally, you will need a permit for most renovation work, especially when it comes to removing walls and changing floor plans. You also need a permit for most plumbing, electrical and HVAC work. If you are only changing decorative finishes, you do not need to apply for a building permit.

If you suspect your home may not of had permits pulled for past renovation work, get your home inspected! Not just by a home inspector! The home inspection will give you a general report of the entire house and all its system and components, but if you think your electrical is compromised, bring in a qualified electrician! If you think your HVAC is compromised, bring in a qualified HVAC contractor!....and so forth. Your biggest concern should be the overall safety of your home. Permits are GOOD!

House CSI