You can already imagine your family sitting around a new kitchen island. You know how practical and relaxing the space will be. Before your dreams can become reality, however, it’s important to know if you need a permit for your kitchen remodel.
When Do You Need a Permit To Remodel a Kitchen?
Style changes and minor kitchen renovations don’t usually require a permit, but bigger remodels do. In general, you need a permit to remodel your kitchen if the project involves:
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Making changes to your home’s structure, such as removing walls
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Installing new plumbing or moving water/drain lines
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Adding new wiring, electrical outlets, circuits, or higher-voltage connections
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Changing the location of light fixtures
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Installing or moving vents
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Repairing, replacing, adding, or modifying a gas line
Expansions and open-concept remodels always require a permit for demolition and construction. Home additions like outdoor kitchens also require permits.
What about installing a new kitchen island? You don’t usually need a permit for room accents like new countertops, cabinets, or flooring. Things are different if you want a kitchen island with an integrated dishwasher, sink, or stove, however.
How Do You Get a Permit for a Kitchen Remodel?
Contractors can take care of the required permits for kitchen remodeling, but you shouldn’t assume this will happen. The work contract must outline who is responsible for obtaining permits.
Who Can Apply
Can homeowners apply for building permits? Absolutely. Never push ahead with DIY kitchen projects unless you have your shiny new permit in hand.
In some cities, only a licensed plumber or electrician can apply for permits related to plumbing modifications or new electrical installations. Make sure your contractor follows through.
Where To Go
Kitchen remodeling permits come from your city or county. To apply, drop by the City Hall building department, call your municipal permitting office, or visit their website. Many websites have a list of remodeling projects that require a permit, like San Antonio, TX.
What To Do
The application process, necessary permits, permit fees, and kitchen remodeling costs depend on the nature of your project. Structural or specialized remodeling can require:
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Creating and submitting project plans
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Waiting for an inspector to approve your blueprints
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Passing periodic on-site inspections
Electrical, plumbing, and construction projects often require a final inspection, too.
Why Do You Need To Get a Permit for Your Remodeling Project?
Remodeling your kitchen without a permit isn’t worth it, no matter how you slice it:
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Word can get out: From serendipity to social media, city inspectors discover violations more often than you think.
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Violations affect your insurance: Permit violations during a kitchen remodel can void your entire homeowner’s policy.
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Buyers find out: The law requires you to disclose any remodeling projects to buyers, and home inspectors always ask to see the related permits.
Don’t work with building contractors who are comfortable operating without a permit. The good ones aren’t willing to risk it.
Do You Need a Permit for Range Hoods and Farmhouse Sinks?
We’re famous for our luxury kitchen accents, and customers often ask about permitting requirements for kitchen remodeling projects. Every municipality has different rules for ducted and ductless range hoods, so you should check locally to be sure. New plumbing and some sink replacements require permits. Contact us for more information.