PART 1 - PREPARING YOURSELF FOR WINDOW INSTALLATION

Before beginning any project, it’s a good idea for homeowners to familiarize themselves with the different types of permits that need to be secured to ensure that they are complying with the rules and the law.

FOUR TYPES OF PERMIT

Below are the different types of permit that apply to various home improvement projects.

Building Permit - Required for ALL construction work including room additions, patio covers, walls or fences, carport or garage enclosures, and accessory buildings more than 200 sq. ft.

Electrical Permit - Required when installing, altering, reconstructing, or repairing electrical wiring on any structure, building, or swimming pool, among others.

Plumbing Permit - Required for installing, altering, reconstructing or repairing any plumbing, gas, lawn sprinkler supply, and water heater systems.

Mechanical Permit - Required for the installation, alteration, reconstruction, and repair of a furnace or air conditioning system or equipment, except for window and portable units.

PART 1 - PREPARING YOURSELF FOR WINDOW INSTALLATION

IMPORTANCE OF PERMITS -- AND PITFALLSOF NOT FOLLOWING THE REQUIREMENTS

Performing home improvements without acquiring the necessary permits can bring serious consequences that can cost you a lot of time and money. If you or your contractor fails to obtain the permits needed to meet strict residential code requirements, you may be liable and will need to answer to violations. Homeowners and contractors may be charged with fines and penalties -- that normally exceed the cost of the permits. Worse, authorities may order the tearing out of the work that has already been done, and then you have to do it all over again once the necessary permits have already been acquired.

“WHY WOULD I NEED A PERMIT? I HAVE INSURANCE!”

Not all code violations will affect you instantly, but do not think you can get away with murder (totally). If serious problems, due to the home improvement projects that didn’t have the right permits, arise, your homeowner’s policy may not cover the damages. For instance, if electrical work without proper permitting sparked a fire, your insurance provider may decide not to provide compensation.

PART II - DOES YOUR PROJECT NEED A PERMIT?

Not everyone knows about building and home improvement permits and when they need one. Those who decide to start and go on without attempting to learn about it may face several problems in the future. Now, here’s a guide to the projects that require a permit -- and those that you can go ahead with right away.

PROJECTS THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT

• New Window InstallationReplacing existing windows normally doesn’t need a permit, but cutting new holes for new units, including skylights and doors, generally does.

• Fencing Installation or RepairNot all fence construction or repair requires a permit. You need to check with your city or municipality regarding height restrictions. If you need to exceed the restrictions, you will most likely need to secure a permit, or else your fence will be cut down to meet height requirements.

• Plumbing and Electrical WorkInstalling or replacing plumbing systems and connections generally needs a permit. The same rule applies with electrical wiring installation and replacement -- even the seemingly simple tasks such as installing new outlets, switches, and even ceiling fans and overhead lighting. However, there are smaller, related tasks that can be done without permits, too, so make sure to check with a professional.

PART II - DOES YOUR PROJECT NEED A PERMIT?

• Heating Maintenance and ReplacementAltering the ventilation system, fireplaces, ducts, and water heaters all need a permit. Meanwhile, filter changes, motor lubrication, and equipment cleaning can be done without one.

• Siding InstallationSome cities and municipalities require a permit for siding projects so make sure to check your local government codes and requirements.

• Structural Renovations, Additions, and Major RemodelingRemember -- any project that will eventually alter your home’s current footprint will need a permit.

PROJECTS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE A PERMIT

Thankfully, not everything needs a YES from your city’s building permits department. Below are projects that you can perform any time without worrying about being fined.

• Flooring installation (hardwood, carpet, linoleum, or vinyl tile)• Painting and wallpapering• Installing new countertops• Minor electrical repairs• Minor plumbing work such as faucet replacement• Landscaping

PART 1 - PREPARING YOURSELF FOR WINDOW INSTALLATION

When planning home improvement projects or remodeling, you may need one or two permits for you to be able to pursue with the project without worrying that the local code enforcement department will come and take down whatever it is that you’ve already done. Below is a basic guide that might help you get around with acquiring permits for your project.

WHO: Generally, if you are hiring a contractor, they will be the ones to secure all the necessary permits -- which is a good move that homeowners should consider, as professionals already know their way around these permits. Just be sure to hire a reliable one. On the other hand, if you are doing the project yourself -- well, who else are you expecting to apply for and acquire the permit/s?

WHAT: Not sure what permits you need and what type of projects need one? You can contact your city or county’s code enforcement department. This way, you can also ask for other details such as documentary requirements and fees. You can also check online -- visit your local code enforcement department’s website or other resources.

WHERE: To secure permits, you may need to go personally to your city or county’s code enforcement department, especially for bigger projects. Other locales offer online processing for smaller projects, so take the time to check -- and double-check.

PART 1 - PREPARING YOURSELF FOR WINDOW INSTALLATION

WHEN: Of course, you need to acquire the needed permits BEFORE you begin your project. Check or ask the documents you need and once these are complete, you can already apply for the permits.

HOW: Acquiring permits is generally easy as long as you know the basic and most important details of your project and if you have the needed documents. First, as mentioned above, get in touch with your local code enforcement department to know the things that you’ll need. Next, file your application. Lastly, get your permits and start building or renovating. If you’re hiring a contractor and their service includes getting the permits, you no longer have to worry about these.

Additional HOW: How much is a permit? For small projects such as installing a new toilet, a plumbing permit may cost $100 or less. Meanwhile, for bigger projects such as a room addition, the building permit may run around $1000. If you are working with a contractor, ask if these costs are already included in the contract.

If you still aren’t certain about how permits work, getting the assistance and service of a trusted professional or contractor is the best course of action. DIY projects are definitely fun and exciting, but entering realms you are unfamiliar with may not help you get fulfilling and successful home improvement results.

DABELLA EXTERIORS LLC

10300 SW NIMBUS AVE SUITE P-B PORTLAND, OR 97223

503-641-7676

DABELLAEXTERIORSLLC.COM