Not a lot of us are fond of getting permits - especially if it is for 'simple' diy projects or some minor home renovation; what could possibly go wrong, right?
Well, cities usually have solid reasons for requiring permits. "Obtaining a permit means that someone knowledgeable will review your plans and help spot mistakes before you begin the work," says Rick Goldstein, an architect and co-owner of MOSAIC Group in Atlanta.
The worst thing that could happen is getting a big, fat denial letter from your insurance company because of some 'small' diy projects or a common home renovation that you did sans a permit.
So before you jump in another home renovation or 'simple' diy projects, you would do yourself a favor by familiarizing yourself with these 8 diy projects that surprisingly require a permit according to Trulia:
Putting in a gas stove
So you want to switch from an electric stove to a gas stove - why it is way cheaper, plus you love to cook a lot! But before you even think about doing the switch as one of your diy projects, think that if done incorrectly, the gas could leak and result to serious damage to you or your home. So get a home renovation permit first!
Replacing windows or doors
Replacing a window or a door may seem like a pretty straightforward home renovation, but it's not. With windows, as much as you want do the replacement as one of your diy projects, you actually need a permit to ensure emergency egress requirements are met in case first responders need to make their way in. You will also have problems with water getting in the house if the doors and windows are not properly installed.
Building a deck
An outdoor living space like a deck is a good home renovation, especially if you love meditation and needs a nice and relaxing space for your hobby. But, you really need to call the permit office first. The codes about this are constantly changing, and you want to make sure that you choose safe materials (untreated lumber decays and your deck could collapse); and you also have railing codes to meet.
Putting up a fence
When building a fence, there are certain city ordinances that need to be followed such as the right height or the appropriate material to use. While the installation itself can be one of your diy projects, you should still get a permit or you might get slapped with a stop-work order.
Installing a storm shelter or safe room
One practical home renovation is installing a shelter or safe room - to protect you in case of tornadoes and hurricanes. To ensure that you build it safe, get a permit so you can build the room aligned to FEMA specs. Another benefit is that you can register the structure:
If you want protection from tornadoes (and hurricanes), you might consider installing a shelter. But unless you design and construct this room to FEMA specs, your shelter might not be so safe. If there is a tornado in your area, first responders will know who has storm shelters and where they need to look for you in case you get trapped inside," says Blake Lee of F5 Storm Shelters in Tulsa, OK.
Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom
A kitchen or bathroom makeover is a fun home renovation - but it is more than just finding the right fixtures and cabinetry. Neglecting a permit before remodeling will cause you trouble when you decide to sell your home.
"If an inspector catches this kind of thing, or if a bank wants to make sure it's covered against all liability and demands to see the permit before funding a mortgage, this can potentially be a major time and money sink to rectify," says Kimberly Wingfield, a Philadelphia real estate agent and DIY fanatic.
Installing new electrical wiring
Now this is definitely one that should never be in your list of diy projects. If your house isn't wired for all your gadgets, don't make the biggest mistake of treating it with an amateur electric wiring job -you wouldn't want to cause a major fire. This is one home renovation step that definitely needs a permit.
Replacing a gas water heater
Tired of your old water heater? Don't just go to the Home Depot, buy a replacement, and do it yourself. This sure is not one for diy projects. Not getting a permit before doing this home renovation could cause potentially serious damages; it could result to a fire or a flood if not properly installed.
