“Do I need a building permit?” or “I didn't know that I needed a building permit!” These are statements I hear on a regular basis from homeowners.

So, what type of work does in fact require a permit?

In a nutshell, cosmetic changes such as paint, carpet, trim, a new outlet (in an existing box) or a new toilet do NOT need a permit. But as soon you buy lumber and start framing walls, decks, roofs, you will need a building permit.

For example, let’s say you put in a new bathroom. That will require at least one new outlet, new plumbing pipe, an exhaust fan and most likely some new walls and insulation (if on an exterior wall). A small project like this would require a building, plumbing, mechanical and electrical permit. Needing several types of permits can seem overwhelming and exhausting. My advice is to get all of your permits at once and be done with it OR ask your contractors (if using them) to get their own permits.

Also, verify with your local building department what they actually require for permits. Depending on where you live, your city or county may not require them. I recently heard that some counties down in south states dont even require permits for a new house.

Pro tip: make sure your contractors post their permits on the jobsite so you know they got them!

Why spend the money on a permit when your project may seem so minor? Well, I would be lying if I said that I bought a permit for every project I did and I’m a building inspector. It really comes down to safety, insurance and continuity. I believe that most people want their family to live in safe environment as well as anyone else that may reside in the residence 20+ years from now. A permit and proper inspections ensure that the minimum standards are met for construction. It also provides a public record within your county or city showing that you followed local code. Should an insurance company ever need to get involved or if you sell the property, public record will show that proper permits were pulled and inspections completed, limiting any liability.