Obtaining permits can be a confusing and lengthy process, which is why it’s important to fully understand what kind of permits you need and why before you submit your application. Electrical permits in particular are often necessary for renovation work. Safety always comes first, which means that electrical permits should be the first items on… View Article The post Safety First: Assessing Why You Need an Electrical Permit to Get the Job Done appeared first on Scout Services.

Obtaining permits can be a confusing and lengthy process, which is why it’s important to fully understand what kind of permits you need and why before you submit your application. Electrical permits in particular are often necessary for renovation work.

Safety always comes first, which means that electrical permits should be the first items on your to-do list.

When You Need an Electrical Permit

A permit is required to do a number of things, but electrical work often requires specific permits. If you’re planning on installing or altering any permanent electrical device, running additional wiring, altering low-voltage systems, or making any other changes to the electrical work of a building, you’re most likely going to need a permit to complete the job. If you’re not sure whether or not your project qualifies as one needing a permit, you should call the building department who oversees your area long before starting work.

How to Acquire an Electrical Permit

All building permits are typically issued and handled by your local Building Codes Division (BCD) field offices or building departments, depending on the area in which you’re working. If you’re completing electrical work and have questions about residential building permits, your local building department is the place to go. For most electrical work in residential areas, you don’t need drawn plans in your application unless the services involve 400 amps or greater.

How To Get Your Permit Faster

If you want to skip the agonizing wait and unnecessary questions, you should look into permit expediting services. Permit expediters are educated in all different types of permits and can help you navigate the entire process from beginning to end. Not only that, but if you have any questions, you’ll be connected with a permit expert who is responsible for overseeing your permit application. Securing a permit can often cost between $200 and $400, but with services like these, you no longer have to wonder when work can begin.

Permit applications can be a long process, but they don’t have to be. Once you learn why and how permits are issued, you should be able to navigate the system like a pro.