The time has come. You’ve finally decided to tackle that big Remodeling project you’ve been putting off for years. Maybe you’re redoing the kitchen or converting your garage into a spare bedroom.

Whether you do the work yourself or hire a contractor, it may be the case that you need to get a Permit before any work can begin.  Permits are not required for every remodeling project in Houston, but here are a few guidelines to help you determine when you need one.

Reasons why you need to get a permit

There are two main reasons why you may need to get a permit for your remodeling project. The first is that when the proper permits are pulled, city officials will inspect the work completed at different stages make sure the project complies with all current safety building codes. Secondly, a permit protects the investment you are making to improve your property.

Projects that require a permit in Houston

• New construction of buildings or structures
• Alterations, repairs or additions to existing buildings or structures
• Changes in the use or occupancy of an existing building or structure
• Interior tenant lease build-outs, remodeling and repairs
• Exterior remodels, alterations or repairs
• Moving/relocating existing buildings
• Demolition (interior and complete buildings)
• Fences over 8′ high or fences constructed of concrete or masonry
• Driveways and sidewalks
• Parking lot paving and repairs

It should be noted that this is not an exhaustive list of projects that require a permit. As a general rule, you should always make sure to check with your local jurisdiction before starting a major remodeling project.

What can happen if you don’t get a permit

The biggest risk involved in non-compliance with permit regulations is that of bodily harm to a home’s occupant.  As stated, the purpose of filing for a permit is to ensure a project meets all safety requirements. If you neglect to get a permit, it’s possible that the work done on your home is unsafe and dangerous.

If you have neighbors, they might alert the city to the fact that you’re completing work without a permit. When the city investigates and discovers the work was completed without a permit, you could face a steep fine or other penalties.

Finally, it’s possible that the sale of your home could be affected if the buyers discover that work was done on the home without a permit. They can cancel the deal outright or require a reduction in the price. No matter how you look at it, ignoring permit requirements simply does not pay in the long run.

However, there is a way you can sell your house without remodeling it first. Simply sell your home to We Buy Ugly Houses Houston. We buy houses as-is and handle all repairs (and permits!) ourselves. Get a quote from us today to get your home sold quickly and easily.

Sources

Permits | www.houstonpermittingcenter.org. (n.d.).
Retrieved from https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/code-enforcement/permits.html