What parts of a home remodel do you need county permits for?

Remodeling a home requires more than knocking down walls. There are many things to consider when you want to remodel a home like how much will it cost, will you hire a contractor, or whether or not you will need a permit to add on to parts of your already existing home. Obtaining permits is just a part of the process but what parts of a home remodel do you need county permits for and which ones are you ok not having one? It can be a confusing process but an important one none the less.
Whether or not you need a permit to remodel your home will depend on two different things:
1. What kind of remodeling project you are planning on doing
2. Where you live
Many people begin to remodel their homes without inquiring as to what permits are needed before they do so. And many of them end up having to change their plans because they neglected to get the needed permit before they started the work. Do yourself a favor and research what type of permit you need before you start the process. It will not only save you time but most likely save you some money as well. It turns out that there are more things that need a permit than one would think and also a number of things that you might think need a permit but don't. It pays to do your homework. Let's take a look at the four types of permits you will need for remodeling or building a home.
- A building permit: If you are doing any type of construction work such as adding one to your home then you are going to need a building permit. There are certain guidelines that each city has in terms of how much you can add on behind, in front, and to the sides of your home and certain boundary lines that cannot be crossed. A building permit will also be required if you are knocking down walls, putting up fences, retaining walls, a carport, or an bonus room above the garage.
- An Electrical permit: You are going to need an electrical permit if you are planning on installing, changing, or repairing any of your electrical wiring in the home. And unless you are an electrician it is a good idea to hire someone to come in and do the work for you. A professional and licensed electrician should have access and know what types of permits you will need for your specific type of remodel and if they don't they should know where to find out what they need. And electrical permit will also be required if your altering the wiring on any other structure around the home or anywhere on the property.
- A plumbing permit: A plumbing permit is required for any type of plumbing installation your are changing, reconstructing, altering, repairing, or adding into your home. This includes but may not be limited to the gas, sprinklers and your water supply.
- Mechanical permits: Mechanical permits may be required for things such as installing a new furnace or central air into your home. The company that installs these types of things in your city or state will have a better idea of where to go to find out if your city or state requires the permit or not or they may already have everything you need to fill out and find out. Hiring professionals can sometimes be more money up front but can save you valuable time and money, especially if a permit is needed.
Know what parts of a home remodel you need permits for is an important step that shouldn't be neglected. Forgetting or just not obtaining permits can result in serious fines and even having your house taken away. So take the time to contact your local city office and obtain a list of required permits that you will need to remodel your home.
Like this article? Then Digg It
or
add it to your Del.icio.us Bookmarks!
Tags: parts_of_a_home_remodel_you_need_permits_for home_remodel home_remodel_permits county_permits home_remodel_county_permits remodel_permit city state building_permit electrical_permit plumbing_permit mechanical_permit professional _home
