Depending upon the extent of your home remodel, you may need a building permit. Don’t worry, any reputable contractor has pulled plenty of permits and likely has fantastic relationships with inspectors as well. 

If you’re adding square footage, for example, your renovation will require a building permit. Major plumbing and electrical work also trigger a permit. And building permits mean that plans need to be submitted and approved by the town. 

“When electrical or plumbing work is to be done, a licensed professional must be added to the permit as well. Permitting offices do this for safety reasons to comply with the state’s department of insurance regulations as well as to calculate taxes.” Divitia Realty

How Much Will Building Permits Cost?

Are you worried about the associated costs for pulling permits? According to Home Advisor, building permit fees can run anywhere from $424 to $2,234. Contact your local zoning department to find out more.

“If you intend to take on a building project or remodel a home, permits are serious requirements upheld by state and local authorities to ensure compliance with building code safety.” Home Advisor

It’s not recommended that the homeowner pull permits, unless they are also acting as the general contractor. You want a reputable contractor to be on record for the construction. Fly-by-night contractors often ask the homeowner to submit plans, but that may indicate a lapse in their license or insurance. Be careful with that. 

Should Building Permits Be Avoided?

Short answer, no. Long answer, still no.

We do not recommend DIYing a large remodel and avoiding building permits. This kind of thing is a matter of public record. When it comes time to sell your home, inspectors may verify the remodel was permitted. 

“Also consider whether you’ll be selling your home in the future. Home real estate inspectors often check public records to make sure new work has been permitted, and if you did work on your home without any necessary permits, it could hurt your prospects.” The Spruce

Many municipalities also have code enforcement officers looking for unpermitted work. If an inspector arrives, your project may be red-tagged and put on hold. Oh, and there will be fines and penalties! Yikes!  Additionally, work cannot begin again until building plans are submitted, approved, and the appropriate permits are pulled. Depending upon the work that has been done, some deconstruction may even be required. You don’t want to risk that kind of a change in the schedule.

Get Your Estimate Today!

We take your construction and home remodel seriously. So, when you’re ready, let’s schedule an appointment. We’d be honored to be your contractor of choice.