Thinking about remodeling your bathroom? It’s an exciting project that can add both comfort and value to your home. But before you dive in, there’s an important question to consider: Do you need a permit? Not having the right permits can lead to unexpected headaches, including fines and difficulties when selling your home down the road.
Now, you don’t need to cancel your DIY remodeling plans just yet – most small projects are unlikely to need any documentation before you get started. However, as a professional remodeling company offering bespoke bathroom remodeling services, we’re happy to break down when you need a permit.
When do you need permits to remodel a bathroom?
Permits are generally required when your bathroom remodel involves any changes to plumbing, electrical systems, or structural elements of your home. On the other hand, simple cosmetic updates like painting or swapping out fixtures usually don’t need a permit. To avoid any surprises, it’s always a good idea to check with your local building authority.
Where you’ll need to get your permit depends on your city. While there aren’t federal or state regulations for permits, your city may have regulations or local laws in place.
Permits needed in Columbus, Ohio
We’re locally based in Central Ohio, so we’re happy to offer our home city as an example. In Columbus, a building permit is required for all new construction, alterations to an existing building or space, and changes in occupancy. The City of Columbus has provided a handy quick guide to which residential projects are in need of permits. For example, kitchen and bathroom remodeling in Columbus do require permits, and adding a window also requires a permit.
Projects you may need permits for
When planning your bathroom remodel, it’s crucial to know which projects typically require a permit. Here are some common ones:
Plumbing
Anytime you’re making locational changes to the plumbing, such as moving a sink, shower, or toilet, a permit could be required. This helps ensure the work meets local codes and integrates safely with your existing plumbing system.
Electrical wiring
If your remodel includes updating or installing new electrical wiring, a permit could be necessary to meet local safety standards and minimize the risk of fire or other hazards.
Ventilation
Adding or upgrading bathroom ventilation may requires a permit, especially if new ductwork or vents are involved. Proper ventilation is key to maintaining air quality and preventing moisture problems like mold.
Interior demolition
Planning to knock down walls or make structural changes? You might need a permit for that to ensure that the structural integrity of your home isn’t compromised.
How to file for a bathroom remodeling permit
When it comes to filing a remodeling permit, you should check with your city or county, and also with your local homeowners’ association (HOA) if you live within one.
Filing with your city
For many cities and counties, a bathroom remodeling permit will need an accompanying plan to explain how the final floor plan will look, along with details such as project costs and contractors that will be working on the remodel. Required information will also vary by city, so be sure to read your city’s requirements carefully.
If you don’t live within city limits, try checking your county’s local building codes instead. Counties may require specific building permits or inspections for renovations and construction as well. Their offices can provide you with any information you may need to renovate your home bathrooms.
Navigating your HOA
Homeowners’ associations for neighborhoods, condos and other residential buildings may also have specific policies regarding home renovations. You may need to fill out and submit paperwork to request approval for your desired changes, depending on your association. Some associations will have an architect to review permit plans and to advise on any necessary changes.
Some associations may even deny your requests if you are seeking to make major additions or alterations. Relocating a toilet in a condo could be denied on grounds of disturbing your neighbors and disrupting the functionality of the plumbing system.
Schedule your project with Columbus Ohio’s premier remodeling company
For homeowners in Columbus, Ohio, looking to remodel their bathrooms, partnering with a trusted remodeling company is essential. Our experts at CORE Renovations can navigate the permit process with ease and bring your design vision to life, ensuring everything is up to code. Let Columbus’s premier remodeling company handle the details, so you can enjoy a beautiful and compliant bathroom remodel from start to finish. Contact us today for a quote.
