Common Questions About Permits

Why do I need a permit?

There are many reasons for obtaining building permits for construction. Taking out a permit provides you the services of a plan check engineer who will make sure that the plans are complete, that the plans comply with accepted engineering principles, and that the plans meet State minimum construction standards. In addition, a building inspector will perform inspections to make sure that construction is consistent with the plans and minimum standards for construction technique.

Construction is a substantial financial investment, which can be seriously jeopardized by non-complying construction. Work done without required permits is not only illegal, but will create problems when you try to sell your property. Fire and homeowners insurance coverage may not recognize work performed without permits or may be invalidated. When making home improvements, protect the safety and value of your home and family by getting the necessary permits and using licensed contractors and craftsmen. Permits protect.

The other contractor said I don’t need a permit, why?

This occurs for many reasons. One is they may not be properly licensed. They may not be properly insured. In either of these cases they would not be able to obtain permits. They may not know the codes well enough to construct the project properly and don’t want to invite outside scrutiny of their work. They may see it as a nuisance or hassle, telling you it will take longer and cost more. Nothing will take longer and cost more than redoing work that is not permitted. The building official has the power to “red tag” your house if you don’t have a permit. You may have to tear down work already completed and redo it. In any case you will be forced to obtain permits and pay a fine, and you will probably not be a priority at the building department after trying to do the work with out a permit.

Why do I have to buy a permit to build on my own property?

California law requires you to obtain permits - even on your own property - to ensure that you meet minimum building standards for your own safety and for the safety of future property owners and occupants.

Who is responsible for obtaining permits?

The property owner or contractor is responsible for obtaining structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and building permits. It is a good idea to have your contractor obtain permits so that they are the “contractor of record” should any problems occur with the work down the line whether you still own the property or not.

When are plans required?

You must submit structural plans or drawings for any new construction or for an addition or alteration to an existing building. Plans aren't required for nonstructural repairs and work for which a permit isn't required. However, a change in use or occupancy may require plans even if there are no structural alterations. Check with your local planning or zoning department to determine whether a permit for change in use or occupancy is required.

How do permits affect the buying or selling of a home?

Anyone selling real estate needs to fill out a Seller's Property Disclosure Statement. Building permits are discussed; the following questions are about the property being sold:

Are there any additions, conversions or remodeling?
If yes was a building permit required?
If yes, was a building permit obtained?
If yes, was a final inspection obtained?

Whether you are selling or buying a home you can find out about the permits associated with the property. The information about building permits obtained is public record. You just need to be able to find that public record. Contacting the local building department is your best bet. If you are selling your home, part of the paperwork you gather for the sale should be the building permits for any remodeling you have done. Be sure to keep a record of these permits and the inspections done after the permitted work was completed. You may want to look at the Seller's Property Disclosure Statement and use it as a check list of what you need for the sale of your home. Your realtor should have a copy for you. If you are interested in buying property, be sure to take the time to check if remodeling work was permitted and inspected on the property you are interested in may save you from problems later. The most important part about obtaining building permits is the inspection after the work is completed. This inspection will help determine the work was done correctly.