Ever since the pandemic, more and more people have taken on home improvement projects to make their house into the home they desire. While these projects can be fun, exciting, and rewarding, some require a building permit through your local jurisdiction. Occasionally, a HomePro Inspections home inspector receives a question about the permit status of specific projects like kitchen upgrades, new decks, or additions. Despite the significance of this detail, our home inspection Standards of Practice do not encompass the research on project permits.
We may all agree that the permitting process can sometimes be complicated. Still, it is worth the time to ensure that your project is safe, complies with local regulations and building codes, and does not adversely affect the value of your home. Although we don't check for permits or code compliance, we let our clients know that we will report any errors in workmanship.
Plumbing and Electrical Building Permits Needed
Plumbing and electrical DIY projects are the ones homeowners tend to take on most often. Despite their apparent simplicity, improper work can lead to significant potential hazards.
· Electrical Systems
Building permits are required if your electrical systems project involves installing new wiring, adding additional outlets or lighting, or upgrading an electrical panel. Electrocution and fire are the most significant hazards associated with DIY electrical systems projects.
· Plumbing Systems
A building permit is generally required to replace water heaters, relocate or replace plumbing fixtures, add water supply lines, or alter drainage and sewer lines. Building permits ensure proper installation and prevent potential plumbing issues related to leaks or backups in the drainage system.
Exterior Projects Building Permits Needed
Because some exterior projects require permitting, it's always best to check with the local Building and Safety department. You are also responsible for making sure any underground utilities are located and marked before you begin.
· Patios and Decks
Building permits for patios and decks will ensure compliance with local safety codes. Decks involve load-bearing requirements and proper construction techniques. Building your deck to the latest building codes will prevent unfortunate accidents, such as collapses or railing failures. Patios should naturally drain away from the home's foundation and be flat and level enough to prevent tripping hazards.
· Fencing
Fencing requirements may include height limitations, setbacks, and access to utility easements. Some neighborhood associations may also have regulations that maintain aesthetic requirements for the neighborhood.
Heating, Ventilation, and Cooling Systems
HVAC system replacements or modifications typically require a building permit. A licensed professional must perform the work if you install or modify your HVAC system. Permits ensure that upgrades meet your local jurisdiction's efficiency and safety standards.
Structural Changes
Structural changes almost always require a building permit. Our home inspectors frequently observe structural problems in older homes that have undergone work without the necessary permit. Inadequately supported beams, notched floor joists, and undersized components are among the problems. These deficiencies can lead to the structure sagging and shifting.
· Basement Remodeling
Finishing or remodeling a basement space will require structural, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and safety permits. Too many basement DIY projects may lack adequate air returns, egress, electrical, and minimum headroom requirements.
· Additions
Building permits will ensure adherence to building codes and structural integrity when adding on to your home. Whether adding a bathroom or expanding your living space with a bathroom or addition, you will need to secure a building permit.
· Load-Bearing Walls
Removing or altering load-bearing walls will require a building permit to ensure structural integrity. This question is very common with first-time home buyers. With all the home improvement shows, people always want to open up living spaces, so they ask our home inspectors about moving or removing walls.
Summary
Always consult with your local building department or a licensed contractor to determine the specific permits needed for your project. By following the proper permitting process, you can confidently embark on your home projects, knowing they are in line with regulations and designed to enhance your home for years.
Over the years, our home inspectors have found electrical panels in bathrooms, pull-chain lighting fixtures, and switches installed in shower enclosures. Often, people finish off basements and do not install air returns in any of the rooms. Several years ago, I inspected a home where the basement was wired with 16-gauge lamp cord. The list goes on and on.
As part of a home inspection, our inspectors check to see that the furnace air filter is correctly sized, clean, and serviceable. If not, we recommend maintenance in our inspection reports.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN, area. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942, by email, or use our online “Schedule Now” feature to schedule an appointment.