Renovating tends to be a poorly regulated industry. If you wish to build a NEW house, there are permits, home builder's warranty and regulations to follow. If you wish to renovate your existing kitchen, people seem to be far less likely to take out a permit.
Here's why: we think it will be too much of a hassle to be worth it. This way of thinking, although understandable, is missing some very key points. First, If I was house hunting, walked in to an old house, with a stunning new kitchen, I'd be very worried if I found out that it was renovated without permits. I spoke with someone earlier today who had a very hard time selling his home, because he completed some renovations without permits, and the purchaser wanted EVERYTHING inspected and brought up to code. The $350 in permits would have saved him this entire problem.
Second, permitting a renovation means that you value your health and safety. If you rip out your drywall without knowing that it's full of aesbestos, you are putting your entire family's health at risk. Even the best electricians make mistakes. Without a mandatory inspection, some of these errors could be overlooked, which could cause blown fuses, electrical fires, etc.
Third, it's the law. If you're renovating, you should know whether a permit is required or not.
Although municipal inspections can add an increased level of hassle, it is an inconvenience that is completely worth it.
Do yourself, your family, and the resale value of your home a favor. Get a permit.
Wise words, I once looked at a house that had an addition added without a permit, while not being the sole reason I didn't buy it, it certainly contributed.
ReplyDeleteI for one am always a bit suspicious when a prospective client requests that work be performed without a permit. I then dig deeper during our face to face conversation to find out what is behind this “No Permit” request.
ReplyDeleteI have had comments such as:
I don’t want my property taxes to increase.
It is too expensive and a hassle to go through, especially if a board of variance application is required.
I don’t want some of my neighbors to know what I am doing.
Just to name a few.
Building Permits and subsequent inspections are in essence there for your assurance that the work carried out is safe and has been done to minimum standards as set out in the current edition of the National Building Code of Canada & together with regional and municipal building code requirements.
If a homeowner has made alterations structurally or mechanically that required a permit for work to be carried out and none had been issued, if that person subsequently makes a house insurance claim for any reason, they may be in for a rude awakening where the home insurance policy may become null and void. This is as a result of work done to the home without a Building Permit and required Proof of “satisfactory” Inspection.
Ole
Ole’s Construction Inc.
Ole- very true. Although there are many valid reasons why home owners do not want permits, it is always worth it to follow the proper procedures.
ReplyDelete