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Home Remodeling: When You Need A Permit And When You Don’t

Civilcan Engineering Inc. • May 22, 2023

Home remodeling can be a great way to improve the functionality, aesthetics, and overall value of your home. However, not all home remodeling projects are equal, and some may require a building permit before you can begin the construction process. In this blog post, Civilcan Engineering Inc. explores when you need a permit for home remodeling and when you don’t. This will help you avoid potential legal issues and ensure that your home renovation project is safe and meets the local building codes.

What is a building permit, and why do you need one?

A building permit is a legal document that authorizes construction or renovation work on a property. This document ensures that the work being done meets the local building codes and safety standards. Building permits are required by law to ensure that buildings are safe, accessible, and energy-efficient. Without a building permit, you risk being fined or even having to remove the construction work you’ve done.

What home remodeling projects require a building permit?

The projects that typically require a building permit include:

  1. Adding a new room, such as a bedroom or bathroom
  2. Adding or changing electrical or plumbing systems
  3. Installing a new roof or siding
  4. Making structural changes, such as removing walls or changing the layout of your home
  5. Building a deck, patio, or porch
  6. Installing new windows or doors

In general, if your home remodeling project involves making any structural changes or adding new systems to your home, you’ll likely need a building permit.

What home remodeling projects don’t require a building permit?

Some home remodeling projects don’t require a building permit, including:

  1. Painting or wallpapering
  2. Replacing or repairing existing plumbing or electrical fixtures
  3. Installing new cabinets or countertops
  4. Installing new flooring
  5. Adding insulation to your home
  6. Installing a new fence

In general, if your home remodeling project involves making cosmetic changes that don’t affect the structure or safety of your home, you likely won’t need a building permit.

What are the consequences of not getting a building permit?

If you start a home remodeling project without a building permit, you risk facing serious consequences, including:

  1. Fines and penalties from local authorities
  2. A requirement to stop construction until a building permit is obtained
  3. Forced removal of any work done without a permit
  4. Difficulty selling your home in the future, as buyers may be hesitant to purchase a property that has had work done without the proper permits.


It’s important to ensure that you have the proper building permit before starting any home remodeling project. Not only does it ensure that your project is safe and up to code, but it also protects you from potential legal issues and fines down the line. If you’re unsure whether your home remodeling project requires a building permit, it’s always best to check with your local building authority to avoid any potential legal issues. Civilcan Engineering Inc. can assist you with the permit acquisition process and help ensure that your home renovation project is safe, up to code, and meets all the necessary legal requirements.

Incorporated in 2011, Civilcan Engineering Inc. provides architectural, structural, and mechanical design and permit application services for residential and commercial building projects of various sizes and complexities. We provide a free project assessment and an initial site visit to evaluate the project and guide you through the building permit application process for your project.
Our residential architectural design services include new custom homes, home additions and extensions, garages and carports, basement apartment and garden suite, below grade basement entrance, new side entrance, porch and stairs, wooden, concrete and steel decks, basement underpinning and lowering, load bearing wall removal, interior and exterior home renovations, lot grading plans, site servicing plans, etc. We serve clients across Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, Oshawa, Markham, Vaughan, Brampton, and the surrounding areas.

Get in touch with us today!
To learn more about the services we offer, please click here . To get in touch with us, please click here or give us a call at (416) 890-9048 .

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