When beginning a plumbing repair or home project, it is important to consider a plumbing permit. Many homeowners believe permits are only required for larger renovations. This is not always the case. Even smaller plumbing work requires a plumbing permit prior to beginning.
Before you start tearing down walls and ripping up floors, find out what the requirements are in your city. Read on to learn more about plumbing permits.
How Am I Protected With a Plumbing Permit?
A plumbing permit is a very important document that needs to be acquired prior to any work being completed. This provides protection to the homeowner, ensuring all work is done to the building code.
This is important for safety reasons. It also helps the homeowner save on money and time. If you go ahead without a permit and the city inspects and notices something is not up to code, all work will be halted immediately. What’s worse is you will likely have to tear down what you have already started and rebuild. This will put a huge dent in your timeline and your wallet.
When Will I Need to Use a Plumbing Permit?
All larger jobs require a plumbing permit. Projects such as replacing a water heater and relocating existing plumbing lines are considered big jobs, and you will need a permit to complete them.
Also, any kind of pipe replacement, even if you are installing the same kind of piping will require a permit.
It is always better to be safe and check with the city before you start your project. You can go online or call them directly. You could also give your local plumber a call, and they could tell you what you will need.
What is the Price?
Permit fees can vary from place to place. So they may be a little different here in Milwaukee, WI compared to the last city you lived in. Typically there is a fee for the application and processing. This amount is small, sometimes in single digits.
The actual permits can range from as little as $25.00 all the way up to $100.00 or more. It really depends on the kind of work you are getting done, the size of the space, and if you will be adding any extras or special features. Keep in mind the cost of inspections as well. One to three inspections are common. However, there may be more depending on the type of work being done.
It is always better to ask questions before you start demolishing your kitchen or bathroom. Obtaining a permit is a quick and painless process that is designed to protect you from shotty work being done to your home, and protect future potential buyers from buying a house that has had repairs done that are not up to code. Once this process is complete, you can get back to enjoying your home renovations and all the luxuries that come with it.