Pull Permits Before You Renovate, Save Time & Stress!

Interested in renovating the plumbing in your bathroom, kitchen or any other part of your home? Before you can begin any work towards improving your property, you need the right permits to ensure compliance with Ontario’s Building Code Act.

Failing to pull permits could cause a wide range of problems down the line—from voiding your homeowners’ insurance to making it more difficult to sell your home later on. Read on to learn what you need to know about municipal requirements for plumbing renovations.

First, figure out if you need permits

Most plumbing projects require permits to comply with Ontario building codes. In general, you’ll need to pull a permit for any improvement that updates your plumbing system. This applies to any type of improvement, whether you’re relocating plumbing fixtures in your home, installing new pipes or any other project that alters your plumbing system in any way.

Second, work with a professional who can pull permits

Figuring out whether your project needs a permit is the easy part. As the homeowner, you’re legally responsible for obtaining permits and providing your municipality with detailed plans for the renovation, as well as any other documents they request.

It’s easiest to work with a contractor who can specify exactly what permits you need and can work with the local building department in your area to obtain them. Your contractor will handle all communication with the municipality as they review your plans and drawings.

Working with a professional also gives you peace of mind that work is progressing according to plan. Instead of leaving things to chance and running the risk of fines or the need to tear out and re-do your entire project, work with a licensed contractor who understands how to get the job done right, the first time.

Third, make sure you schedule an inspection

During your project, your contractor will also notify building inspectors who will determine whether your project is compliant with the Building Code, your permit and your plans. The inspector should arrive within two working days of being notified. Inspections require you to:

• Post your permit in a window or other area where it can be seen easily;
• Keep copies of your project plans on-site;
• Inform your municipality about any changes to plans.

o   All changes need to be approved by the municipality.

Keep in mind that inspectors always need to physically see the work you’re doing. If any part of the project deviates from your plans, you’ll be told to correct it unless you get approval for a revision of your plans. If you fail to comply, your local municipality can take action—like issuing orders authorized under Building Code Act, 1992.

Finally, always keep projects up to code

Renovation projects of any kind need to be up to code. Those guilty of an offense under the code can face substantial fines (up to $50,000). Instead of leaving things to chance and risking fines and headaches, work with a PipeMasters plumber who understands which permits are required and how to do every job right, according to plan. Contact us today at info@pipemasters.ca or (289) 404-9063.

PipeMasters is part of Oakridge Plumbing Ontario Ltd. and serves the East GTA, Durham Region, North to Lindsay & Peterborough, out to Cobourg and all points in between. All Rights Reserved.