I’ve noticed that most of your columns refer to consulting with code enforcement officials and getting building permits when undertaking building projects. Is it necessary to check with them every time I decide to make an improvement on my home?
Signed, RMF
Dear RMF,
Many small projects done in or outside of the home do not require a permit or warrant code enforcement action. So the short answer to your question is no, but I would err on the side of caution when debating permit issues.
Here’s why:
Safety and historical data records are two primary reasons why code enforcement offices exist. Our homes hide a significant amount of work completed by everyone that ever pounded a nail or installed an electrical outlet before we ever opened the front door. This is why you should be concerned about whether previous work completed met acceptable safe building standards before you ever bought your house. By the same token, you should be concerned as a responsible homeowner or landlord about the safety of the dwelling you or your tenants will occupy.
Building permits are typically required for the demolition of a structure, for new structures, or significant modifications to the existing structure, in the form of additions to the primary structure or a substructure on the property (a shed, pool or fencing). Additionally, household (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) modifications warrant the application of a building permit. The permit process enables code enforcement to note requested alterations to your property in accordance with local zoning laws, alerts the officer to brief you on federal mandates (e.g. “Dig Safe” waiting periods for underground utilities review), planning departments and inspection criteria. While professionals in the trades are usually on top of code requirements or have the experience to know when a permit is needed, many homeowners are unaware that such a department exists in their community.
That said …
Before you get the first “itch” to undertake some projects, make arrangements to visit the community code enforcement officer. Have them pull the file for your home to review. He or she will likely provide you with a list of permit-required projects and you can set the tone for a good working relationship for all the projects you’ve been dreaming about. This way, you’ll be more prepared to submit plans for approval.
As a landlord, you are ultimately responsible for correcting pre-existing hazardous conditions left by a previous owner regardless of whether they may have been created without a permit application or the inspection that follows. The liability of those conditions rests with the current landlord. A permit and subsequent inspection of the corrected hazards significantly reduces that liability. Check with your local housing offices and your insurance carrier for more details on this topic.
Kaile Warren of Windham is CEO/Founder of the national handyman franchise Rent-A-Husband. Kaile is also a national home improvement expert for the CBS Early Show, HGTV and Parade Magazine and appears locally on WCSH’s 207. When not on the road or working he spends his time teaching his white shepherd, Maintenance, how-to ... Send your questions for Kaile to editor@themaineswitch.com.