Home News How leak detection services can help with insurance claims

How leak detection services can help with insurance claims

by admin

Water damage is a common issue that many homeowners face, and it can be caused by a variety of factors including burst pipes, leaking appliances, or damaged roofs. When water damage occurs, the first step is to identify the source of the leak in order to minimize the damage. This is where water damage leak detection services come in.

Water damage leak detection services utilize advanced technology to find hidden leaks in a home’s plumbing system. These leaks can often go undetected for long periods of time, leading to extensive water damage and mold growth. By using specialized tools such as infrared cameras and moisture meters, leak detection professionals are able to pinpoint the exact location of the leak without causing unnecessary damage to the property.

One of the main benefits of using water damage leak detection services is that they can help homeowners with their insurance claims. When water damage occurs, many insurance companies require proof of the source of the leak in order to process a claim. By using leak detection services, homeowners can provide the necessary evidence to support their claim and increase their chances of receiving a fair settlement.

In addition to helping with insurance claims, water damage leak detection services can also save homeowners money in the long run. By identifying and repairing leaks early on, homeowners can prevent costly water damage repairs and potential health hazards associated with mold growth. Detecting leaks early can also help to reduce water bills by preventing wasted water from leaking out of the plumbing system.

Furthermore, water damage leak detection services can help to preserve the structural integrity of a home. Water damage can weaken building materials such as wood, drywall, and insulation, leading to costly repairs and renovations. By detecting and repairing leaks early on, homeowners can ensure that their home remains safe and structurally sound.

When choosing a water damage leak detection service, it is important to look for a reputable company with experienced professionals. It is also important to inquire about the technology and methods that the company uses to detect leaks, as advanced technology can help to provide accurate and efficient results.

Overall, water damage leak detection services play a crucial role in helping homeowners identify and repair leaks before they cause extensive damage to their property. By using these services, homeowners can protect their homes, save money on repairs, and increase their chances of receiving a fair insurance settlement in the event of a water damage claim.

For more information visit:

Leak Detection Mcdonalds Restoration -#1 Best Plumbers -Water Damage Restoration
https://www.leakdetectionmcdonaldsrestorations.com/

800-404-1200
Torrance, United States
Leak Detection Mcdonalds Restoration. Leak detection services, water damage, & plumbing services in Southern California. #1 Leak Detection Mcdonalds Restoration. All work With 5 Year Limited Warranty. Emergency plumbing repairs, emergency water damage restoration, & best leak detectors – CALL NOW TOLL FREE 800-404-1200 FOR MORE INFORMATION

Water leaks in the home can be sneaky and sometimes difficult to detect, but it’s important to address them as soon as possible to prevent extensive damage and costly repairs. Here are the top 10 common signs of water leaks in your home that you should be on the lookout for.

1. High water bill

One of the most obvious signs of a water leak in your home is a sudden increase in your water bill. If you notice a significant spike in your water usage without a corresponding increase in water usage, it could indicate a leak somewhere in your home.

2. Wet or damp spots

If you notice wet or damp spots on your walls, floors, or ceilings, it could be a sign of a water leak. These spots are typically the result of water seeping through cracks or gaps in your plumbing pipes.

3. Musty or moldy smell

Water leaks can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow, leading to a musty or moldy smell in your home. If you notice this odor, particularly in areas like the basement or bathroom, it could indicate a water leak.

4. Stains or discoloration

Water leaks can cause stains or discoloration on your walls, ceilings, or floors. These stains are typically caused by water seeping through the material and can range in color from yellow and brown to green or black.

5. Sounds of running water

If you hear the sound of running water when no faucets are turned on or appliances are running, it could be a sign of a water leak in your home. Listen for dripping or gurgling sounds coming from behind walls, under floors, or in ceilings.

6. Decreased water pressure

If you notice a sudden decrease in water pressure, it could be due to a blockage or leak in your plumbing system. Check for leaks in your pipes or fixtures, and consider contacting a professional leak detection service, such as leak detection san pedro ca, for help.

7. Visible water damage

Water leaks can cause serious damage to your home, including warped or bubbled flooring, sagging ceilings, and peeling paint or wallpaper. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address the leak as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

8. Pooling water

Pooling water in or around your home, particularly in basements, crawl spaces, or near your foundation, could indicate a water leak. Standing water can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and other serious issues if left untreated.

9. Fluctuating water meter readings

If you suspect a water leak in your home but aren’t sure where it’s coming from, you can perform a simple test by turning off all water sources in your home and checking your water meter. If the meter continues to run, it could indicate a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

10. Warm spots on the floor

Water leaks under your floors can create warm spots due to the heated water escaping from the leak. If you notice warm spots on your floors, particularly near bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms, it could be a sign of a water leak.

In conclusion, water leaks in your home can cause serious damage and should be addressed promptly. By keeping an eye out for these common signs of water leaks, you can catch them early and prevent costly repairs. If you suspect a water leak in your home, don’t hesitate to contact a professional leak detection service, such as Leak Detection San Pedro CA, for help in identifying and repairing the leak.

For more information visit:

Leak Detection Mcdonalds Restoration -#1 Best Plumbers -Water Damage Restoration

https://www.leakdetectionmcdonaldsrestorations.com/

800-404-1200

Leak Detection Mcdonalds Restoration. Leak detection services, water damage, & plumbing services in Southern California. #1 Leak Detection Mcdonalds Restoration. All work With 5 Year Limited Warranty. Emergency plumbing repairs, emergency water damage restoration, & best leak detectors – CALL NOW TOLL FREE 800-404-1200 FOR MORE INFORMATION

We invite you to take the journey with us to shape the future because it is about the joy of restoring your home and brining back your home back to pre-loss condition after a water disaster & new perspectives, water damage becomes invitations, imagination becomes possibility. Welcome to a new destination to bring tranquility & peace back to your home after an emergency water damage disaster – let us restore you home….the perfect balance between form and function. We are the most trusted emergency water damage restoration services in the Southern California, South Bay Area Ca- Your peace of mind is our top priority during an emergency water damage disaster. It is our objective to serve you to make sure your home is returned back to normal where you can enjoy your daily activities the way it was prior to the water damage disaster.

Did Your Service Provider Pulled A City Permit, & Had City Pass Regular Inspection & FINAL INSPECTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY?

While others made you believe that they supposedly pulled City permits as it is required to protect your investment and it never happened; Thereby leaving you wondering what went wrong. On the other hand, We will definitely follow through in our systematic standard protocol to protect your property by truly pulling City Permits to protect the value and future resell of your property. Additionally, City will perform their normal regular inspection then Final City inspection. We will make sure it passes FINAL INSPECTION because we do the job right or don’t do it at all.

Welcome To Leak Detection Mcdonalds Restoration Subdivision of Mitigation The Original Mitigation Emergency Services Southern California Beach Cities. We Are The Original Mitigation Trademark, Patent 2558363 Mitigation & Leak Detection Your Most Trusted South Bay Beach California Beach Cities Area One Stop Emergency Full Water Damage Restoration Services, Construction, Leak Detection, Disaster Restoration, Plumbing, Re Pipe, Hygienist Testing & Clearance, Mold Removal, Fire And Smoke Damage Restoration, Flood Damage Restoration, ADU, Residential Remodeling, Commercial Remodeling, Decks, Flooring, Cabinetry, Exterior Remodel, Interior Remodeling, Architecture Plans, Electrical, Bathroom Remodeling, New Construction Residential, EV Car Chargers Residential, 240 Volt Outlet, Tile Remodeling, Tiler Flooring, Mold Abatement, Commercial Property Restoration, Demolition, Dry Out, Fire Damage Restoration, Slab Repair, Stucco Repairs, Drywall Repairs, Roof Replacement, Re Staining Front Doors, Re Staining Cabinets, Kitchen Cabinets, Residential Interior Painting & Interior Painting, Cabinet Painting, Apartment Painting, Commercial Painting, HOA Management Painting, & Full Reputable Reconstruction Of Your Residential or Commercial Property, All Of Our Work is guaranteed with a 5 Year Limited Warranty, We Do The Job Right Where Others Failed, We Succeeded, And We Won, In Making Sure Your Property Is Returned, To Pre-Disaster Condition, Like It Never Happened, Let Our Experts Service Your Emergency Needs, We Are The Most Trusted Emergency Water Damage Full Restoration Services In Southern California Beach Cities Such As Rolling Hills, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Playa Del Rey, Rolling Hills Estates, Palos Verdes Peninsula, Palos Verdes Estates, Malaga Cove Palos Verdes Estates Area, Hermosa Beach, Lomita, Carson, Culver City, Lawndale, Gardena, Hawthorne, Playa Del Rey, Marina Del Rey, Torrance, & Much More Where You Can Enjoy More Of Your Time In What You Treasure, And Value While We Get To Work For You, And, Let There Be Peace So We Can Help You Achieve Your Goals, Call Now 310-533-5400, For More Information, You Tried The Rest, Now Try The Best, Yes, That Is Correct, This Is What I Said, You Tried The Rest, Now Try The Best, Call NOW Toll Free 800-404-1200 For More Details, No Obligation Just Call Now & Let Us Answer Your Questions With Ease, Emergency Leak Detection Full Services, Emergency Plumbing Inspection, Pipe Repairs, Plumbing Inspections, Water Leak Repairs, Water heater installations, Broken Pipe Repairs, Re pipe, Slab Leak Repairs, Plumbing Installation & Repair, Leak Detection Services, Pipe Repairs, Emergency Water Damage Restoration, Boiler installations, Drain Repair & Replacement, Drain unclogging

Garbage Disposal, Hydro Jetting, Toilet Repair, Kitchen pipe repairs, Sink repairs, Faucet repairs, Drain cleaning, Sewer cleaning, Sump pump backups,

Sump pump problems, Leak Detection Repairs, Emergency WATER RAIN CLEAN UP, Emergency Water Leak Detection, Emergency Water Damage Repair, Emergency Rain Water Clean Up, CALL NOW FOR MORE DETAILS 310-533-5400,

MOST TRUSTED Emergency Water Damage Restoration in Rancho Palos Verdes, Palos Verdes, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Torrance, Rolling Hills, Redondo Beach, & South Bay Beach Cities FULL WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION, PLUMBING in REDONDO BEACH, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, & FULL CONSTRUCTION REPAIRS SERVING THE SOUTH BAY AREAS BEACH CITIES Torrance Leak Detection – Rolling Hills Water Damage Restoration – Rancho Palos Verdes Ca Water Damage Restoration – Palos Verdes Estates Water Damage Restoration Ca USA

Most Trusted Plumber in SAN PEDRO, CALIFORNIA & Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rancho Palos Verdes, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Ca Emergency Leak Detection Services Plumbing Pros offers a comprehensive set of plumbing services to repair, maintain, and facilitate all of your plumbing needs.

Most Trusted Emergency Dry Out Company Since 1977 in Southern California & Don’t waste time with your handyman, or risk further damages by doing the repairs yourself. Call a Licensed Professional Plumbing team located in the South Bay area. We specialize in getting the plumbing job done right the first time to save you time so you can invest more of your daily operations. Emergency plumbing repairs, our plumbing experts can help your emergency plumbing requests. We can handle all types of plumbing maintenance, repairs, rain water clean up, mold clean up, water extraction, and water damage restoration:

Emergency Leak Detection Full Services

​Emergency Plumbing Inspection

Pipe Repairs

Plumbing Inspections

Water Leak Repairs

Water heater installations

Broken Pipe Repairs

Re pipe

Slab Leak Repairs

Plumbing Installation & Repair

Leak Detection Services

Pipe Repairs

​Emergency Water Damage Restoration

Boiler installations

Drain Repair & Replacement

Drain unclogging

Garbage Disposal

Hydro Jetting

Toilet Repair

Kitchen pipe repairs

Sink repairs

Faucet repairs

Drain cleaning

Sewer cleaning

Sump pump backups

Sump pump problems

Leak Detection Repairs

Emergency WATER RAIN CLEAN UP

Emergency Water Leak Detection

Emergency Water Damage Repair

Emergency Rain Water Clean Up

CALL NOW FOR MORE DETAILS 310-533-5400

GENERAL PLUMBING

CONSTRUCTION

RAIN WATER CLEAN UP

MOLD REMOVAL

DRAIN CLEANING

PLUMBING REPAIRS

DECK REPAIRS

MOLD REMOVAL

WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION

LEAK DETECTION

EMERGENCY SERVICES

SEWER CAMERA

SEWER REPAIR

Original Mitigation Since 1977✔️​

Most Trusted Contractor ✔️

General License Contractor On All Job Sites✔️

We Initiate Hygienist Testing On All Job Sites✔️

We Handle All The Paperwork For You✔️

We Submit All Job Sites For City Permitted, City Inspected, & City PASSED SATISFACTORILY According To City Code✔️

We Protect Your Resell Property✔️

We Are The Original Mitigation Company✔️

MITIGATION PATENT/TRADEMARK#2558363✔️

We PASS Workmanship For FINAL CITY Inspection Passed✔️

We PASS FINAL CITY INSPECTION According To City Code✔️

​ •While Other Competitors Failed -We Win For You✔️

•Imitators Cannot Keep Up With City New Codes – We Can✔️

•We Work SMART & Win For You!✔️

•Additional Emergency Full Plumbing Repairs ✔️

•Plumbing Hydro jetting ✔️

•Plumbing Drain Cleaning✔️

•Leak Detection Services ✔️

•Water Damage Clean Up ✔️

•Water Removal✔️

•Emergency Flood Service✔️

•Emergency Mold Removal✔️

•Plumbing REPIPE✔️

•Video Camera Inspection Sewer✔️

•Drain Cleaning✔️

•Residential Construction & Plumbing✔️

•Commercial Construction & Plumbing✔️

•Drywall Repairs✔️

•PAINTING ✔️

•Flooring ✔️

•Emergency EMS✔️

•Faucet Repairs✔️

•Bathroom Remodeling✔️

•Kitchen Remodeling✔️

•Deck Repairs✔️

•ADU Permitted✔️

•Cabinetry✔️

•Painting✔️

•Plumbing Fixtures✔️

•Sinks Replacement✔️

•Garage Conversion✔️

•Mold Abatement/Mold Removal✔️

•Leak Repairs✔️

•Additions Remodeling✔️

•Plumbing Pipe Burst Repairs✔️

•Open 24/7 We Never Close✔️

•Workmanship Includes 5 Year Limited Warranty✔️

•Open 24/7 We Never Close✔️ We Are Open 24 HOURS ✔️

AM I RESPONSIBLE IF THE CONTRACTOR DOESN’T PULL PERMITS FOR MY PROJECT? Plan to pay for unpulled permits (say that five times fast)

AM I RESPONSIBLE IF THE CONTRACTOR DOESN’T PULL PERMITS FOR MY PROJECT? Plan to pay for unpulled permits (say that five times fast)

Permits are usually included in a contractors bid.

If there are no permits pulled, the homeowner is responsible.

Proper permits are necessary when selling or insuring your home.

If your contractor just wrapped up a renovation project at your house and you find out that it was done without a permit, you are responsible for footing the bill. The good news is that you can file for a permit after the work is complete. Here’s a breakdown of what to do and how to remediate the situation.

What to Do if My Contractor Didn’t Get a Building Permit

Most reputable contractors include the price of permits in their bids. However, not all contractors pull permits. If your contractor didn’t get a building permit before starting construction on your home, you’re responsible for securing a permit after the fact.

For any permit pulled after the work is done, you’ll face a fine that doubles what would have been your initial cost, had the contractor pulled it before construction started. You should contact your local building and planning commission as soon as possible and explain your situation.

What to Do if the Project Is Complete

The building and planning commission will schedule an inspection to see what work your contractor completed. The inspector will only approve modifications that they can visibly see. If the project is more complex, then a visual inspection may not be sufficient. In some cases, you may even need to undo parts of the construction if it does not meet building safety standards.

The inspector must also ensure that your home meets local building codes. The inspector may ask you to provide information about the company that did the work, so they can check in and certify with the contractor what work was done. If your contractor is unresponsive, you might need to call in a reputable structural engineer near you who can evaluate the project and share any findings with the commission.

What to Do if the Project Is Ongoing

If there’s still ongoing work for your addition, you should pull those permits before the contractor completes any more work. You can have the permits checked off by the inspector for compliance as the contractor completes the project.

Do I Need permits?

What Happens if I Don’t Get the Proper Permits

Unpermitted work can potentially result in a few unfavorable scenarios that may affect the ability to sell or insure your home in the future.

Selling Your Home

If you don’t pull the proper permits, your house likely won’t pass inspection if you try to sell it. Even if you don’t intend to sell your home in the near future, it’s important to understand the consequences of unpermitted work. If you sell your home without the proper permits, the new owner could sue you for misrepresenting the property.

Insurance Complications

If you have to modify your homeowners insurance policy or change insurance companies, your insurance company could ask you for a Certificate of Occupancy. If the certificate doesn’t show structural changes that have been made, the insurance company can decline to cover the home because it is not code-compliant.

Safety Risks

There are also safety considerations to keep in mind when it comes to having work done without a permit. If your contractor did any electrical work or added any gas connections, those could represent potential fire hazards. This is why it’s important to work with a reputable contractor near you who can be relied upon to get the right permits ahead of time and ensure that the construction project is completed with every safety measure accounted for.

WHAT PERMITS DO HOMEOWNERS NEED FOR HOME ADDITIONS?

If you’re building a home addition, you’ll need the proper permits before you begin

If your house is feeling a bit too close for comfort, you might consider building a new addition onto the old homestead. But expanding the family digs is about more than lumber, nails, and sweat equity. You’re also going to need the proper permits.

The type of permitting you’ll need, though, will depend on several factors, including your location and the kind of project you have in mind. And that means that the costs to secure the necessary building permits will vary widely

Why Building Permits Matter

We ensure that all safety procedures are carried out as required by the permits. Furthermore, construction permits ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. These codes are established to safeguard the structural integrity, fire safety, and accessibility of buildings.

A building permit is the official written authorization from the relevant City authority that a construction project may begin. For example, the City of Los Angeles requires a permit for any private property construction and/or alteration and in many cases even for repair work.

The size and complexity of the proposed work dictates how much information a given City will require before a requested permit will be issued. Small, straightforward projects typically require very little details while large, complex projects require fully developed plans to be reviewed and ultimately approved by the relevant authority.

Similarly, the cost for a permit is tied to the overall size of the project as it is based upon a small percentage of the total cost of the project. While some homeowners and/or contractors feel “pulling a permit” causes unnecessary delays to their project as well as increased costs, it is in their best interest to do so.

For instance, obtaining a building permit allows the City to confirm the proposed work to be performed is in conformance with all applicable building codes and standards. As part of that process, City inspectors will periodically visit the project site to ensure that the work is in fact being performed correctly.

For obvious reasons it is much better to discover and correct any construction related errors while work is ongoing rather than after it has been completed and/or covered up.

Additionally, should a homeowner desire to sell his or her home in the future, making sure all work was performed pursuant to a permit ensures the homeowner can maximize the value of their home. Conversely, if it is disclosed to potential buyers that there exists unpermitted work on the property that typically causes the potential buyers to provide significantly lower purchase offers. This is due to the fact that City officials can and often do require the purchaser to bring the un-permitted work commissioned by the previous homeowner “up to code”.

When the prior homeowner does not disclose that there was unpermitted work performed on the property and the new homeowner later discovers it such a scenario often results in expensive litigation that requires the previous homeowner to reimburse the new homeowner for all costs and fees associated with correcting the unpermitted work.

The relatively small amount saved on permit fees is typically eclipsed by the liability imposed on the prior homeowner for not having the work performed the right way the first time around.

It might seem like a lot of legwork to make sure you have the proper permits in place before, during, and after construction. But taking care of the permits right away can save a lot of hassle down the road. Unapproved constructions, or work completed by contractors who don’t have the proper permits, can actually decrease the value of your home.

Not only that, but because your property taxes are generally based on the value of the improvements made to the land, failure to get the appropriate permits can leave you on the hook for unpaid property taxes later on.

So, as you can see, permits can have a big impact on your finances if you ignore them.

For example, if you don’t have an electrical permit on file for any electrical modifications in your home, you couldn’t collect insurance if the cause of a fire is determined to be non-permitted work. Permits help when it’s time to sell a home, since potential homebuyers will want to be sure the appropriate permits exist for any modifications or additions to the home.

Most importantly, building codes and permits are put in place for your health and safety. They set forth minimum requirements for the types and sizes of materials to be used to meet safety standards.

These are all really important reasons why the permitting process works in your favor. If you’re hiring a contractor to build your addition, then ensuring that your builder is working with the necessary permits is a pretty great clue that they’re a legit company doing quality work. Win-win!

If you’re making significant changes to your home, you need to have permits, as well as all the proper building inspections during the process and at the project’s completion. In addition to the traditional building permit, which gives you and/or the contractor the permission to build or add onto the home, each specialty trade, such as HVAC, electrical, or plumbing, has its own permit. Before building a home addition, brush up on the required permits.

If the system seems like a confusing web of applications and inspections, you’re right. That’s why we don’t recommend doing it yourself. Keep in mind that “the one who pulls the permit is responsible for the work.”

That means if you pull the permit yourself, or if your contractor pulls it in your name, then YOU are responsible for the work, even if you didn’t do it. This leaves lots of room for error on the contractor’s part, and some contractors may not accept responsibility for mistakes.

For that reason, you should hire an experienced, locally licensed contractor who does quality work and knows the system. The two keywords here are “experienced” and “local.”

Just as a certified public accountant or a lawyer has to pass an exam and prove their qualifications, a properly licensed contractor has to have certain qualifications to pull a permit. These include having a master technician on the team and meeting selected screening qualifications.

Local means hiring a contractor who works frequently in your municipality. Permit and building requirements vary from town to town.

What Permits Are Required for Residential Additions?

If your house is feeling a bit cramped and you’re looking to expand your home’s footprint, you’re first going to need to get the proper clearance from your local authorities.

You’ll need to make sure you pull the proper building permits for your home addition.

Fortunately, it’s not that hard to get the go-ahead on your dream project. Permitting, above all, helps to ensure safe, legal, city code approval, quality construction—and that the addition rests entirely on your own property. (No squabbling with the neighbors over where your property line ends and theirs begins!).

Zoning

When you’re planning to add on to your home, one of the first things you’re going to need to confirm is zoning for the kind of construction you want. Some cities and municipalities, for instance, will limit the amount of square footage permitted on a single lot. Others may restrict the number of detached buildings allowed on the same parcel of land. And still others will specify that only certain types of constructions are allowed within that zone.

So you should check with your local officials before you even begin construction to make sure your project meets your property’s zoning requirements. You might be required to purchase a zoning license to go ahead with the expansion, which will usually involve additional steps, such as site inspections to ensure that your land’s water, septic, and electrical systems can safely support the new addition.

Plan Review

After you’ve ensured your project meets zoning requirements, you’re going to need to submit a building plan for officials to conduct a plan review. This will generally include a drawing of the proposed addition, as well as details regarding construction. Again, this is all about safety and legality.

Inspectors consider issues such as structure, foundation, and location. They’ll want to ensure there is proper clearance between the new addition and other structures to minimize fire risk. And they’ll also want to ensure the building plan works for the addition’s intended purpose. For instance, an attached bedroom with a half-bath will need to meet different standards than a detached guest house complete with a kitchen, bathrooms, and gas heating.

Post-Construction Inspections

The permitting process doesn’t end once you’ve received clearance to start your project, though. At the very least, your town or municipality will require an inspection to ensure that the work went as planned and according to the required code, health and safety standards. Generally, this is for the safety and well-being of all citizens. .

Why Permitting Matters

It might seem like a lot of legwork to make sure you have the proper permits in place before, during, and after construction. But taking care of the permits right away can save a lot of hassle down the road. Unapproved constructions, or work completed by contractors who don’t have the proper permits, can actually decrease the value of your home and could possibly make you liable to repay and become engulfed in a lawsuit by the new homeowners. .

Not only that, but because your property taxes are generally based on the value of the improvements made to the land, failure to get the appropriate permits can leave you on the hook for unpaid property taxes later on.

So, as you can see, permits can have a big impact on your finances if you ignore them. For example, if you don’t have an electrical permit on file for any electrical modifications in your home, you couldn’t collect insurance if the cause of a fire is determined to be non-permitted work. Permits help when it’s time to sell a home, since potential homebuyers will want to be sure the appropriate permits exist for any modifications or additions to the home.

Most importantly, building codes and permits are put in place for your health and safety. They set forth minimum requirements for the types and sizes of materials to be used to meet safety standards.

These are all really important reasons why the permitting process works in your favor. If you’re hiring a contractor to build your addition, then ensuring that your builder is working with the necessary permits is a pretty great clue that they’re a legit company doing quality work. Win-win!

Example: Permitting for a Kitchen Remodel

You don’t have to add on to your home or construct an entirely new building on your property to require permits, though. In some cases, even an extensive remodeling project will require permitting.

This is especially true of kitchens and bathrooms, where the renovation may place significant demands on your gas, electrical, water, and/or plumbing systems.

Below are some examples of the kinds of permits that might be required for an extensive kitchen remodel:

Structural: This is necessary if you’re making major modifications that include blowing out walls or building new ones.

Electrical: Even if you’re just moving one plug or installing any new fixtures, you need an electrical permit. If you’re doing an electrical upgrade, make sure you bring everything up to current building code standards.

Plumbing: If you are adding a redesigned laundry room that includes a new location for the sink, you will need a plumbing permit.

Gas permit: If your new stovetop has a gas grill, you will need a gas permit to run a new gas line. If it’s electric, it will fall under the electrical permit.

Local permits: You will need any other permits required by your township or municipality.

Understanding Home Addition Permits

Dealing with paperwork isn’t the most exciting way to spend a weekend. But the permitting process isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s also great protection. Permits will help ensure your cozy new bedroom or inspiring detached artist’s studio is safe, solid, and inviting for years to come!

Remodeling or adding square footage to your home can be an exciting endeavor, promising to enhance your living space and potentially increase your property’s value. However, amid the enthusiasm for your home improvement project, it’s crucial not to overlook a critical aspect: building permits. In this article I delve into the importance of permits for homeowners considering property updates, exploring the reasons for obtaining permits and the key considerations in the permitting process.

Benefit of Obtaining Permits

The first question many homeowners ponder is whether they truly need permits for their remodeling or expansion projects. The answer, in most cases, is a resounding yes. Obtaining permits isn’t just a bureaucratic formality; it’s a legal requirement in many jurisdictions.

Building codes are established to ensure safety, structural integrity, and compliance with zoning regulations. By obtaining permits, homeowners demonstrate their commitment to adhering to these standards, safeguarding their investment and the well-being of their household.

Beyond legal obligations, obtaining permits is essential for several reasons. First, it ensures compliance with building codes, which are updated periodically to reflect advancements in construction practices and safety standards. By adhering to these codes, homeowners can mitigate risks and liabilities associated with substandard construction practices.

Second, obtaining permits provides legal protection. In the event of property damage, personal injury, or disputes with neighbors, having permits in place serves as tangible evidence that the remodeling or expansion was conducted in accordance with established regulations. This can help shield homeowners from potential lawsuits and liability claims.

Moreover, obtaining permits can have implications for insurance coverage. Insurance companies may require proof of permits for home improvement projects, particularly those involving structural alterations or square footage additions. Failing to obtain permits could jeopardize insurance coverage, leaving homeowners vulnerable in the event of accidents or damages.

Finally, permits can positively impact resale value. Prospective buyers are increasingly vigilant about the legality and quality of home improvements. Properties with properly permitted renovations often command higher prices and attract more discerning buyers who value transparency and compliance.

Also, buyers who are financing their purchase will be depending on a home appraisal to justify their purchase price. Non-permitted additions will not be taken into consideration by appraisers, potentially reducing the amount of financing available. This can force buyers to increase their down payment to cover the difference between the offer price and the appraised value. This may reduce the number of purchase offers and thus the final selling price.

Permits for Every Project?

While there are many projects where I would strongly advise you to apply for permits, there may be cases where the cost and effort aren’t worth it. Small home updates that aren’t dealing with structural elements can often be performed by a homeowner or a handy ma’am. Replacing kitchen cabinets or countertops, updating flooring, or installing new fixtures probably don’t warrant the effort to obtain permits.

However, any time you are contemplating any change to the footprint of your home by adding square footage, you should definitely have the work permitted to ensure you’ll receive credit from an appraiser for the addition when you go to sell your home.

Considerations in the Permitting Process

While obtaining permits is essential, navigating the permitting process can be daunting for homeowners. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Research Local Building Codes and Regulations: Before starting your remodeling or expansion project, familiarize yourself with local building codes and zoning regulations. Each jurisdiction may have its own requirements and restrictions governing construction projects, so it’s crucial to understand the rules applicable to your area. Fortunately most cities now offer online permitting systems to make it easier to research and apply for permits.

Understand Permitting Costs and Fees: Permitting fees vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project, as well as local regulations. Budgeting for these costs upfront can help avoid surprises and delays during the permitting process.

Submitting a Complete and Accurate Application: When applying for permits, ensure that your application is complete and accurate. Provide detailed plans, specifications, and other required documentation to expedite the approval process and minimize the risk of rejection or delays.

Timelines and Approval Process: Be aware of the timelines and approval process for permits in your jurisdiction. Some projects may require multiple rounds of review and approval, so it’s essential to factor in sufficient time for the permitting process when planning your project timeline.

Inspections and Compliance Checks: Once permits are obtained, be prepared for inspections and compliance checks throughout the construction process. Building inspectors will verify that the work is being carried out according to approved plans and specifications, so ensure that your contractor is aware of these requirements.

Potential Challenges and Appeals Process: In some cases, permit applications may be denied or subject to conditions that pose challenges for homeowners. Familiarize yourself with the appeals process and options for resolving disputes or addressing objections raised by regulatory authorities.

Conclusion

Obtaining permits is a crucial step for homeowners considering remodeling or adding square footage to their homes. Beyond meeting legal requirements, permits offer numerous benefits, including ensuring compliance with building codes, providing legal protection, enhancing resale value, and facilitating future inspections and maintenance. While navigating the permitting process may pose challenges, thorough research, careful planning, and adherence to regulatory requirements can help homeowners successfully navigate this critical aspect of home improvement projects.

Related Articles