For example, you might need to obtain a plumbing permit if you plan to install an underground lawn sprinkler. Or, you may need a mechanical permit to install a central air conditioning unit. The only way to determine whether your project needs a permit is to consult your city building and permit office.
Most have information online that you may review. They are also accustomed to addressing questions by phone and in-person, so don't hesitate to reach out to find the answers you need.
If you hired a contractor for your project, it is customary for the contractor to arrange for; or, in contractor lingo, "pull" the permit. This is a good idea because typically the person who pulls the permit is responsible for construction following the code. If you pull the permit, you will be considered the contractor at least in the eyes of the city and liable if there is a construction problem. Contractors are also often familiar with the process and the city's inspectors.
The contractor's preexisting relationship with the city can work to your benefit. On the other hand, if your contractor is charging by the hour, you might save money by completing the permit paperwork and submitting it yourself.
The scope and complexity of your project will help you decide the best way to work with the city and obtain a permit. If your project requires a permit, get a permit. If you are working with a contractor who suggests skipping this step, consider moving on to another contractor. As cumbersome as the process can be, it will be better than dealing with the city if it finds out you should, but don't have a permit.
The city might force you to obtain a permit and could double or triple the permitting fees. It may also shut down your project or require you to tear down your work for example, remove a wall to see what's behind it if there is a question as to whether the work was done according to code.
The worst thing would be if this were to happen when you're in the middle of trying to sell your house, which is when such issues often come to light.
You are liable for any accidents on the job - and accidents often happen. Examples include crew injuries, damage of adjoining properties, gas and water line breaks, etc.
This can cost you a great deal of money in hospital bills and repairs of property damage. You are responsible for any shoddy workmanship that does not meet building codes and will ultimately have to pay to bring your home up to code again.
Properly licensed builders go through stringent vetting by the AL-HBLB to demonstrate competence, experience, and financial stability. When it come times to sell your home, you may have difficulty if it is not up to code. Since the majority of prospective homebuyers who go through a real estate agency will have a home inspected before purchase, building code violations will be uncovered. The bottom line: Never pull a permit yourself unless you plan to oversee the whole construction project and are willing to assume full liability.
However, contractors licensed by the State of Washington or your agent can obtain the permits on your behalf. Either the homeowner or a licensed contractor can obtain the necessary permits.
However, licensed contractors who fail to obtain a permit, or check that the homeowner has done so before construction, violate contractors' license law. The board may also issue an order of correction. This requires the contractor to procure the permits and pay the penalties imposed by the local building department.
The electrical service sized for your original design will need to be re-evaluated when additional electrical load is added to the original service. This is permitted work required to be installed by a licensed contractor. From something as simple as adding an electrical outlet to hooking up a gas stove to adding a new air conditioning unit or exhaust fan will likely require permits. Permitting this work and having it inspected by the qualified authority is only to your benefit.
The best way to determine if your intended scope of work requires a permit is to check with your local authority. They can be assessed as a fixed fee or as a percentage of the estimated value of the work to be performed. A qualified, licensed contractor hired to do the work will know which permits need to be pulled and will include these costs in his estimate. He is then responsible for a quality installation and securing any necessary inspections and approvals.
There may be primary and secondary permits involved depending on the scope of work. The primary permit or building permit would be for the entire scope of the work to be performed by the contractor if hiring a general contractor.
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