Building, project permits protect the homeowner

When contemplating plumbing, electrical, or structural work in your home, it is wise to touch base with the city building department about permit requirements.

A permit protects you, assuring that the work has been done according to building code. It assures you that the contractor and sub-contractors are properly licensed. For example, if unlicensed work was done and you have to file an insurance claim because of a problem, your homeowner insurance company may not approve the claim if the work was done without a permit.

Permits are also important if you are selling. A buyer’s home inspector will check to see if any work done had a permit. Trouble may occur if a permit is obtained but the work was not completed and the permit closed out.

The title company or law firm handling a closing will also check to see if any permits filed for have been properly closed out. Open or unclosed permits may delay a closing.

Importantly, when it comes time to sell your home, you will be able to show that all work was properly done by permit and inspected by the city building department. The buyers will feel comfortable that your home is safe.

Inspectors will come over to inspect at different points along the renovation/ construction project to make sure that from beginning to end the work has been done to code.

By Kathy Schroeder