Home renovation projects are always exciting, especially when you consider how much it will boost your quality of life and give you a great sense of fulfillment once it's finished.
But before you can get started on making changes to your home's plumbing, you should learn more about pulling permits and what you need to get permission from the city.
Interested in getting a feel for how it all works? Here's some pertinent information when it comes to obtaining plumbing permits.
Size Dependency for Plumbing Permits
It's the scale of a job that usually determines whether or not you need to acquire a plumbing permit for your project. If all you want to do is conduct a relatively simple task, such as installing a new faucet, you likely don't need to seek permission.
When it comes to more serious projects that will directly affect your home's plumbing system, however, chances are you will need a permit. The following projects commonly require a permit: repiping, drain line replacements, sewer line replacements, water heater installations, and anything to do with relocating plumbing.
Don’t forget permit requirements may change in different cities. Some ask for permits to conduct specific tasks, while others may not. We suggest you check with Orlando, FL, municipal regulations before starting.
Permits Are For Protecting Homeowners
Even though it doesn't exactly feel like it, applying for a permit is meant to protect would-be renovation artists. Getting the correct permits grants you access to municipal reviewers and inspectors from whom you need to gain approval to go ahead with different parts of your project.
It's their job to ensure you comply with local plumbing codes and zoning laws. Also, plumbing permits can be displayed as evidence you're being compliant with sanitary and safety concerns. This may include potential issues with neighbors and nearby structures.
Those who don't carry the right permits may be issued a fine by the city. There might also be complications if you try to sell your home. But perhaps most importantly, without these permits, you may inadvertently begin a project without any assurance it meets the code and minimum safety requirements.
Costs of Getting Plumbing Permits
Different cities have different rates for permits depending on what the project involves and the type of building you're working on.
It's possible every permit could cost between tens and hundreds of dollars. Cities may also place a charge on each fixture you want to install or offer packages that charge more for installing items beyond the threshold.
In some cases, you might have to pay an application fee. If you find yourself lost in the process and need help with acquiring permits, you can always ask a local Orlando plumber for advice.