condo updates - need a permit? (wood floors, HOA, construction)

[lukyelle]

I recently bought a condo and can see myself having some updates done in the next few years. What types of things do you need a permit for and what types of things do you not need a permit for?

For example, installing wood floors? or how about putting in new counter tops?

Thank you for any information.

[CaseyB]

I don't see where you would for those items, but check with the town building inspector to be safe.
Maybe your condo association has rules regarding improvements as well.

[lukyelle]

ok - thank you.

[MikePRU]

Usually permits are needed for larger project or ones that involve plumbing or electrical work. Definitely check with your local building inspector's office before starting though to make sure you won't need one.

[wxjay]

With the town - I don't think so (unless you're going to create a ton of junk when you trash the old stuff). With your HOA, you might need to only if it involves significant changes to piping or cutting walls or structural changes. You might also need to simply let them know about it and make sure you and/or your contractor know what the appropriate hours are to do work (some places are strict - no work before 9 AM and none after 5 or 6 PM), how to properly dispose of materials, and if there will be parking issues for the contractors.

[MikePRU]

Originally Posted by wxjay

With the town - I don't think so (unless you're going to create a ton of junk when you trash the old stuff). With your HOA, you might need to only if it involves significant changes to piping or cutting walls or structural changes. You might also need to simply let them know about it and make sure you and/or your contractor know what the appropriate hours are to do work (some places are strict - no work before 9 AM and none after 5 or 6 PM), how to properly dispose of materials, and if there will be parking issues for the contractors.

Checking with the HOA association about construction restrictions is a great suggestion. I will say though that the size of the project often has nothing to do with whether or not a permit is required. Technically, in my town, you need to pull a permit to install a new toilet. I'm not talking about changing any of the piping. I'm just talking about pulling out an old toilet and putting in a new one. You can do this job with a pair of pliers but you need a permit.

[lukyelle]

Originally Posted by MikePRU

I'm just talking about pulling out an old toilet and putting in a new one. You can do this job with a pair of pliers but you need a permit.

about what I found from the town. That if it was cosmetic (flooring, cabinets) you didn't need a permit. If it were plumbing or electrical you did. I asked about a new tub and she said yes. I didn't ask about a new light fixture or outlet...I wonder.

I wonder what would happen if you changed the light fixture w/o a permit?

I asked the HOA and they said everything was ok except when you were going to structurally change the place - like remove a wall or support beam.

[CaseyB]

Originally Posted by lukyelle

I wonder what would happen if you changed the light fixture w/o a permit?

Light fixture is OK.

[lukyelle]

Originally Posted by CaseyB

Light fixture is OK.

Ok. how about changing an outlet? or adding a new outlet? Or changing a flip-switch to a slider-switch?

[bc02eagle]

permits are a great way for the town to ring just a little more money from its residents. In my opinion, it is something minor - adding outlets, lights or basic plumbing work - find someone that will do the work with out a permit and avoid the headaches. If it is a big remodel or reno get the permits.