Before any home project, including a bathroom renovation, it’s important to know if any building permits are required before the project can begin. Building permit requirements vary from city to city, so the answer will depend on where you live. As a general rule of thumb, any bathroom remodeling work that involves opening up or moving walls, electrical wiring, or plumbing work will require a building permit.

Bathroom Renovations That May Not Require a Permit

Not every type of bathroom renovation requires a permit. For projects that involve only replacing existing fixtures, such as a bathtub or shower, a permit may not be required depending on where you live and the local building requirements.

While certain projects, such as adding new windows or replacing the roof, will always require a permit because they are structural changes, bathtub replacement and shower remodeling may or may not require a permit. In some communities, the need for a permit will depend on the total cost of the project, while in other places, it will be solely based on the type of work being done. In general, a more expensive project is likely to involve more significant changes and is therefore more likely to require a permit.

How to Look Up Building Permit Requirements

To find out if a building permit is required for your specific bathroom renovation needs, you’ll likely need to do a little research. You can visit your city or county website to find details. However, most homeowners planning a bathroom remodel will be hiring a professional company to complete the work. In general, your bathroom remodeling company should already be familiar with local building permit requirements and will handle the steps of pulling permits as part of its services. You’ll want to make sure you’re choosing a reputable and professional bath remodeling company that will complete the project the right way, rather than performing any unpermitted work.

Why Do Some Projects Require Building Permits?

Building permits are designed to ensure that significant changes to the home are done correctly. Improper electrical work could run the risk of starting a fire, while poor plumbing may lead to backflow issues or flooding. The consequences of improper installation work in these cases can have a significant impact on your home, not to mention your safety. While it may seem like a hassle or an extra step that delays your project, building permits help ensure the remodeling company does the job the right way to keep you and your home safe. A building permit can also provide you with peace of mind, as any project that requires one will involve a municipal government official doing an inspection and signing off on the project after it’s complete.

Getting Started on Your Bathroom Renovation

A building permit is a small but important step in many bathroom renovation and other home projects. At MaxHome, our professionals will handle the pulling of any necessary permits ahead of your remodeling project and will ensure your bathroom remodel is done the right way. If you’re ready to get started on a bathroom renovation in your home, contact us today. We’d be happy to walk you through your options and provide you with information about whether a building permit will be required for your project.