A remodel can take time and when you have the right general contractor, it makes remodeling easy. Here are a few tips when you want to get a permit to remodel.

The permit and inspection process gives you, your neighbors, and the City assurance that specific standards are met when expanding, altering, or repairing your property by complying with State Codes, Local Codes and Zoning Requirements. These standards are based on well-established health, safety, and environmental considerations intended to protect the integrity of the building, the safety of its inhabitants, and the welfare of the public. Projects not completed according to code can affect your home’s insurability and potential sale. City building records are available from our department upon request. Prospective buyers can use these records to see if permits were obtained and if compliance was achieved for specific projects.

Permits from the Inspection Services Division are required prior to removing and/or installing construction materials on your property. Samples of required permits for interior remodeling include the installation of new cabinets, wall coverings, insulation and the creation of new rooms. Permits are also required for the modification, installation, or replacement of electrical, plumbing, or heating devices.

The property owner is responsible for ensuring that a permit is obtained prior to work being started. Contractors can also apply and obtain permits on behalf of the property owner. Under no circumstances can construction or demolition start prior to obtaining the Building Permit and posting the placard in a front window or door visible from the road. Once a permit is obtained, the work must be started within six months or it will expire. If work is started within six months, the permit is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Commencing work without a permit is subject to a double fee or $100 plus the normal permit fee, whichever is greater. When unpermitted work is discovered, a Stop Work Order will be issued and a permit that accurately describes the work must be obtained before any work may resume.