A bathroom renovation consistently ranks as the most popular remodeling project for homeowners across the United States. Remodeling a bathroom is an exciting and refreshing way to change the look and feel of your home but requires careful planning and consideration. One of the most important things to consider when remodeling a bathroom is whether you will need a building permit.
When do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel?
The short answer to whether you need a permit to redo a bathroom depends on the scope of work. If you’re upgrading a light fixture and putting a fresh coat of paint on the wall, you probably won’t need one. However, if your project involves any changes to plumbing and electrical, or tearing down a load bearing wall, you will need a bathroom remodel permit before you get started.
If you choose to sell your home in the future, failing to obtain permits before completing a remodel may result in a complicated selling process or a complete cancellation. It is always the homeowner’s responsibility to obtain the proper permits, but if you plan on hiring a licensed bathroom contractor to handle your bathroom remodel project, they will help ensure you obtain the right documents.
Depending on your project, some permits to remodel will be issued immediately and some may require an inspection of plans by your local municipality. If your project requires a permit, you may also be subject to inspections along the way to ensure you are adhering to local building codes. When you apply for a permit, you can coordinate inspection timelines with your city or county office.
Although every bathroom project is different and every municipality in Indianapolis is different, there are some general rules of thumb to follow when it comes to applying for permits.
Bathroom upgrades that will require a permit in Indiana:
Adding or moving an existing sink
If you need to add new drain lines to accommodate for a new sink or to move an existing one to another spot, you will need a permit.
Removing a load bearing wall
Any project that requires the removal of a load bearing wall will need a permit. If you have a structural change that drastically changes the footprint of your bathroom, it may also require a permit.
Plumbing and sewage
If you need to open or penetrate walls to change plumbing or sewage, you will likely need a permit. You will also need a permit if you plan on moving plumbing or extending it.
Replacing a water heater
If your bathroom remodel involves replacing your old water heater, you will need to apply for a permit.
Adding outlets
In some cities, changing electrical wiring requires a permit. Be sure to double-check what kind of electrical work needs a permit in your Indianapolis municipality.
Adding windows or skylights
Installing new windows or a skylight will dramatically change the structure of the bathroom, which requires a permit.
Replacing a bathtub
The waterproofing and structural needs of a new bathtub will most likely require you to obtain a permit. Bathtubs can also drastically change the structure of your bathroom, which also needs permitting.
Installing tile
If new bathroom tile interferes with waterproofing and plumbing, you will need a permit to have it installed or to install it yourself.
Need help obtaining permits for your Central Indiana bathroom remodel?
If you’re ready to begin your bathroom remodel project and need help obtaining the proper permits, it’s time to call on help from a licensed contractor. Experienced bathroom remodel contractors will know exactly what permits you need and will usually apply for them right away to avoid long project delays. However, this is not a guarantee, so always be sure to ask them before you hire them for a job!
For over 40 years, White Oak has helped families throughout Greater Indianapolis and beyond with their home improvement projects. Our reliable team has the skills and experience necessary to obtain all permits for your bathroom remodeling project and complete it for you quickly and efficiently so you can enjoy your new space for years to come.
We even offer affordable refresh services that will give your bathroom a brand-new look for less than half the cost and time of a traditional remodel. No matter which route you decide to take, we would be honored to help you every step of the way so you have a smooth remodeling experience. Contact us today to get started on your bathroom remodel project!
