Even if your next home improvement project seems small, you might be surprised to learn that it falls under building permit requirements. Permitting rules vary widely depending on where you live and the scope of your project. But here’s the thing: failing to follow them can create costly setbacks.
So, before you grab your toolbox, here’s what you should know about what home improvements require a permit and why it matters.
Home Improvements That Almost Always Require a Building Permit
Some projects are nearly guaranteed to require permits for house renovations, no matter where you live. According to Redfin, here are some of the most common:
- Fencing installation and major repairs
- Window installation or replacement, especially if size or location changes
- Plumbing and electrical work, such as rewiring or rerouting pipes
- Structural changes, including removing or adding load-bearing walls
- HVAC replacements or upgrades, like installing a new water heater or furnace
- Additions and remodeling projects, including sheds, garages, or room expansions
Example: If you want to remodel your kitchen, permits may be needed not just for walls or layouts but also for updating plumbing lines, adding outlets, or changing ventilation systems. This is a classic case of what remodeling requires a permit, and it’s more extensive than many homeowners realize.
When to Double-Check Permit Requirements
Local building codes ultimately decide whether your construction requires a permit. It’s wise to verify with your municipality before starting if you’re planning:
- Removing or adding walls
- Converting spaces (e.g., turning a garage into an office or basement into a rental unit)
- Changing your home’s plumbing or piping system
- Re-roofing your home
- Demolishing part of the house
Some projects even need specialized permits. For instance, installing an underground sprinkler system might require a separate plumbing permit.
Scenario: A homeowner decided to turn their attic into a bedroom without a permit. Later, when selling the home, the unpermitted conversion caused legal delays and forced costly retroactive inspections.
The Risks of Skipping a Permit
It’s tempting to think you can skip permits to save time or money. But cutting corners can create bigger problems:
- City penalties, you may face hefty fines or be forced to halt your project.
- Tear-down orders, completed work could be demolished if it can’t be proven to meet code.
- Resale issues, unpermitted renovations can reduce your home’s value and derail a sale.
Example: A homeowner added a bathroom without a permit. When selling, the buyer’s inspector flagged it, and the city required costly retrofits before the sale could go through.
When it comes to permits for house renovations, the old saying “It’s easier to ask for forgiveness than permission” does NOT apply. In fact, the opposite is true.
Capping It Off
If you’re ever unsure about what home improvements require a permit, reach out to your local permitting office. Being proactive not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also protects your home’s value in the long run.
And while permits can feel like red tape, they’re designed to ensure your projects are safe, up to code, and durable for years to come.
That same principle applies to protecting your home after the work is done. Just as a building permit safeguards your renovation, a home warranty from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10) can help protect your budget when covered parts of important systems and appliances break down unexpectedly.
With the right permits in place and a powerful warranty behind you, you can take on home improvements with confidence, knowing your budget is protected today and tomorrow.
