Home Renovations and Building Permits

November 24, 2013
By Cody Battershill

Why a Building Permit is a Must for Some Home Renovations

Renovations are a great way to keep your home feeling fresh and up-to-date with current trends / designs while possibly adding value to your property at the same time.

But before you go ahead with a home renovation of any scale, you’ll want to double check with the municipal government to see if the type of renovation requires a building permit.

When do you need a building permit?

In general, if you are changing the mechanical systems or structure of your home in anyway then you’ll need to apply for a building permit. This could include projects such as…

Building a new fence

Renovating your basement

Constructing a garage

Adding a secondary suite on top of your garage

Adding a new section to your home

On the other hand, home renovations that do not require a building permit include…

Re-roofing

Re-siding

Re-flooring

Painting

Cabinet installation

Replacing fixtures, doors

Replacing windows (assuming the opening stays the same size)

…or anything else that does not change the systems and / or structure of your home. If you aren’t too sure if a particular project requires a permit, talk to your renovator or contact the government at #311 and they will be happy to assist you.

Why do you need a building permit?

Calgary home renovations must meet the standard requirements for safety, health and structural integrity set by the government.

The permit process will also make sure that any construction done is in accordance with municipal requirements which could include heritage building designations and zoning regulations.

What do I need to obtain a permit?

Your local government could ask for any number of things when trying to obtain a home renovation permit. It usually depends on the scale of the project; requirements could range from a single floor plan to a full blown blueprint, working drawings and a complete site survey.

You may also be asked for additional information depending on rules and regulations for your particular area.

Who should obtain a building permit?

You, the homeowner are responsible for obtaining any building permits, although in most cases renovators will acquire it on your behalf.

Having open communication with your home renovator on who will be obtaining the permits is essential. If they are not around, take a look at your written contract – it should detail who supposed to acquire the permit. If it isn’t you then you’ll need to provide the renovator with written consent.

It is extremely important for you to make sure that a building permit has been obtained for renovation work where it is required. Double check with your contractor, or, if you’re a do-it-yourself type of person, make sure you take the proper steps to acquire the right permit.

What if I don’t acquire a building permit?

Our government has standard requirements for health, safety and structural integrity for a good reason. If you neglect to acquire proper permission you could be ordered to stop all work on-site until you do get a permit, or far worse.

If the home renovation was completed and at anytime in the future malfunctioned, causing damage to your home, property or far worse – another person, you could be completely responsible for any costs and other consequences as a result. Do yourself and favour and get proper building permits every time you plan on doing renovations that require one!

Are you planning on renovating the exterior of your home? Check out these 11 Ways to Boost Your Homes Curb Appeal today, along with several other buyers and sellers tips throughout.

Questions about Calgary Real Estate?

…from a Calgary REMAX Real Estate Agent today. Call me anytime at 403-370-4180 or message me below. I am looking forward to helping you accomplish your real estate goals!