Thinking about some home remodeling? It may surprise you to know that even small jobs might require a building permit. For example, in many jurisdictions, putting up a fence (not just replacing the old one) needs a permit. Painting and carpeting rarely do. But if that project is replacing your windows, it’s a grey area that varies from location to location, and it’s wise to check before you or your contractor start work.
Basically, a building permit is required for any type of work that changes the structure or size of your home, or for improvements or changes that would require an inspection, like roofing, electrical, plumbing, etc. And that’s the case whether the homeowner or a contractor does the work.
A quick review of articles on the internet shows misleading and/or conflicting information. Several articles we read say for the most part you don’t need one. But when we looked up local specifics, we found some things that apply.
Here’s a great example: The City of Minneapolis requires permits for replacing windows or doors EXCEPT in the case of storm windows or storm doors or repairs to existing windows. (Click here for more specifics on Minneapolis.) The City of St. Paul is a little vague on this, stating that minor renovations outside of normal maintenance costing more than $500 do require a permit.
But we want to add a note of caution here. There are some exceptions, because each city or municipality has its own code, and some are more restrictive than others. Adding a door or window where there wasn’t one before? In most cases a permit is required. Changing the style but not the size of the window? Maybe. Different material? Perhaps.
Confused? This is just one of the reasons why it’s a good idea to hire a licensed Minnesota home improvement contractor instead of doing it yourself; a contractor has the experience and expertise to know when a permit is needed and how to get one quickly. Don’t rely on the internet for the last word; having work done without a permit where one is required could result in your being forced to tear out anything done and start over.
As a licensed Minneapolis area replacement window and door contractor, we’re familiar with permit requirements in the communities in the Twin Cities metro and we can handle the process for you.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
