If you’re planning on renovating your home, you’ll likely run into some electrical issues or need to change or add wiring. This is especially true if you’re taking down a wall, changing the layout, or putting in an addition. But since over 98% of all privately-owned residential buildings are located in permit-issuing locations, you’re going… View Article The post Electrical Permit 411: What You Need to Know appeared first on Scout Services.
If you’re planning on renovating your home, you’ll likely run into some electrical issues or need to change or add wiring. This is especially true if you’re taking down a wall, changing the layout, or putting in an addition. But since over 98% of all privately-owned residential buildings are located in permit-issuing locations, you’re going to need electrical permits for any of these changes or additions.
Filing for electrical permits can be time-consuming, but it’s a process that’s in place for a very good reason: these electrical permits ensure that your wiring is installed correctly and won’t pose a potential safety hazard to your family or home. When proper procedures aren’t followed, faulty electrical wiring may not work correctly and can even start a fire. For issues as important as these, it’s simply not worth the risk of forgoing a permit. But having an electrical permit expediter can certainly speed the process along. That can help you get your project finished on time and allow you to start enjoying your renovated home that much sooner. Here are a few things to keep in mind when filing for residential building permits that focus on electrical wiring:
Do I need a permit for maintenance or replacement?
If you need to replace or repair an existing electrical installation or device, you do not need to obtain a permit. However, if you have an older home, you may want to get an inspection to ensure that none of the existing wiring poses a safety hazard.
What if I want to make changes to existing wiring?
If you intend to install or alter any type of permanent wiring or electrical device, you will need a permit. This includes adding electrical outlets or light fixtures, installing garage door openers, converting a fuse box to circuit breakers, installing or altering security alarms, and more. Essentially, if you make changes to something that’s already there or install a new component or system, you need to pull a permit.
Will I need to get an inspection, too?
The majority of electrical permits require a few different inspections. A rough-in inspection takes place when new circuits have been wired and boxes have been installed. You should not cover up any of this work with receptacles, switches, or insulation until it has been approved by the inspector. You’ll likely need to get a service inspection after service panels, electrodes, and terminals have all been installed, but your inspector may be able to look at these during the rough-in. A final inspection will need to be performed after all electrical work has been completed. Equipment, fixtures, light switches, and appliances need to be installed, grounded, and energized for this inspection to take place. You can call your local inspector for further information.
What if I need the project completed quickly?
If you’re on a tight timeline, you’ll need permit help. Obtaining permits can be tedious, especially if you don’t have ample experience. Our permit expediting services can speed things up. Our expertise in this area will ensure that there won’t be any delays on approval and that you can get going on your renovation.
For more information on our permit services, please contact us today.
