When it comes to home renovation, bathroom remodeling projects are among the most popular upgrades. So much so that over 25 percent of all homeowners have had their bathroom remodeled at some point.
After all, this is one project with really high ROI in terms of increased aesthetics and overall property value.
But if there’s one question that I am often asked by homeowners planning bathroom upgrades, it is: Do I need permits to remodel my bathroom?
And as someone planning a bathroom remodel, I am sure you’re puzzled by the same question.
Unfortunately, there’s no definitive answer to this as permit requirements depend on the nature and scope of your project.
For instance, in New York you can go about minor upgrades without a permit. However, that’s not the case with major renovations.
But you can rest easy as I’ve broken down when do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel along with my own general construction contractor insights. So, read on and find a clear-cut answer.
Do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel or not?
When moving ahead with a bathroom remodeling project, the biggest doubt you’ll face is whether or not you should apply for a permit for bathroom remodel. And you’re not alone, as almost everyone faces this confusion.
This happens mainly for two reasons:
1. There are some projects which are clearly exempt from any permit requirement at all.
2. There are many projects that strictly require a permit and proceeding without one can land you in legal troubles.
For instance, anything that exceeds the definition of minor alteration will need an ALT-2 permit application.
But how do you know if your project comes under the scope of bathroom remodel permit requirement?
Well, that’s exactly what I’ve explained in the below sections with examples.
When do you need a permit for bathroom remodel?
Let me start by addressing the elephant in the room, i.e., when do you need a permit to remodel bathroom.
As per New York City’s building codes, any bathroom renovation that’s beyond the scope of minor cosmetic change will need a permit.
For instance, let’s say you’re planning a bathroom upgrade that requires plumbing replacement or electrical overhaul. In this case, you’ll definitely need an ALT-2 permit before moving ahead.
All in all, here’s when a bathroom renovation permit is mandatory:
1. Plumbing overhaul
Every bathroom remodeling project involves some degree of plumbing work, notwithstanding the extent of renovation. And this includes removing or replacing existing pipes, laying new pipes or installing new faucets, to name a few.
Also, as a bathroom remodeling expert, I’ve worked on bathroom plumbing renovations that required relocating the shower enclosure or toilet.
Now, all of these projects come under the scope of permit requirement. That’s because there are risks of water leakage and damage, among others, if you proceed without approved plans.
So, you’ll have to obtain a permit before you can undertake any plumbing work.
2. Electrical upgrade
Just like plumbing work, you’ll need a permit to revamp the electrical system in your bathroom.
For instance, your bathroom remodeling plan might include making changes to the electrical system. And this can range from removing electrical outlets to installing light fixtures to replacing bathroom wiring, and more.
You see, these are the things that carry the risk of electrical and fire hazards. As such, the city of New York requires prior approval to make sure your electrical renovation complies with the building codes.
3. Structural changes
Bathroom remodel plans call for making changes to your home’s structural system more often than not.
For instance, you might want to go about creating a new window, expanding the bathroom length, or moving shower plumbing to another wall.
Now, all of the above renovations will require structural changes, which, in turn, can affect the overall integrity of your home. And this is exactly why a permit is made mandatory to make sure you don’t end up endangering your home’s critical systems.
When can you proceed with bathroom remodel without permit?
By now I am sure you’ve got an answer to when exactly do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel.
But as I mentioned earlier, there are also projects that don’t need any building department approval. The City of New York defines these changes as minor alterations and exempts them from permit requirement.
However, homeowners still find themselves confused. So much so that a lot of them even end up applying for a bathroom remodel permit for these minor upgrades.
And to make sure you don’t find yourself in this situation, I’ve detailed all such bathroom remodelings that are permit exempt.
1. Changing fixtures and fittings
Not all bathroom renovation projects have to do with removing complex plumbing lines. In fact, a lot of remodels are all about creating a modern aesthetic by upgrading fixtures and fittings.
For instance, you might want to swap the faucets, sink, or toilet with a newer design. And these projects don’t need a permit since you’re not making changes to the main plumbing line.
2. Replacing tiles
Tiles play an essential role in overall bathroom aesthetics. And homeowners often want to replace them to keep up with the latest design trend.
So if you find yourself asking, do I need a permit to remodel my bathroom tiles, you’re not alone.
Thankfully, bathroom tile remodel doesn’t need any permit. That’s because removing the existing tiles and installing new ones doesn’t affect your home’s structural or waterproofing systems.
3. Painting
Remodeling your bathroom can be as simple as applying a fresh coat of paint to the walls and cabinets. And obviously this is a cosmetic upgrade, so you need not reach out to the building department for a permit.
4. Essential repairs
Regular maintenance items like changing leaky faucets or unclogging bathroom drain or replacing broken tiles are exempt from bathroom renovation permit requirements.
Nevertheless, you’ll have to ensure these repairs don’t involve any major upgrade. And if they do, you’ll have to get a permit first.
For instance, while unclogging the drainage you might discover a major seepage that requires tearing out pipes. Now, this will definitely require a permit.
Why do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel?
Having answered our main question about when do you need permits to remodel a bathroom, let me shift focus to another important aspect.
You see, homeowners in New York often ask me: ‘Why do I need a permit to renovate a bathroom?’
And I tell them, it is only meant for your safety and wellbeing. After all, this is a way for local governments to ensure your bathroom remodeling project complies with safety codes and standards.
A lot of mishaps in the past have occurred as a result of faulty plumbing, shoddy electrical work, and damaged structural components.
Take this news from Brooklyn, for instance, where a building under renovation without permit collapsed and killed a construction worker. As per building experts, this mishap was completely preventable had the renovation complied with permit requirements and followed safe practices.
You certainly don’t want to end up compromising your home’s safety like in this case. In fact, this is exactly why you do need a permit to remodel kitchen, among other areas of your home.
What are the risks of bathroom renovations without permits?
I know plenty of instances where homeowners proceeded with remodeling their bathroom without a permit. And although a lot of these people made this mistake out of lack of awareness, they had to face legal and other consequences.
So, here are all the risks of a bathroom remodel permit violation:
1. Penalties and legal hurdles
The most obvious risk of renovating your bathroom without a permit is penalty.
But what kind of penalty are we talking about?
Well, as per New York City Code, building officials can levy a fine up to $25,000 on such renovations. On top of it, they can also put other penalties and accrued interest.
And that’s not it.
You can end up in court with a criminal case as officials have the right to bring homeowners to court.
2. Expensive fixes
Apart from penaltis, the building department can also ask you to redo your bathroom after a proper permit procedure. Also, you might be required to remove all changes or additions and go back to the original bathroom design.
All of these can cost you big time with expenses running in tens of thousands.
3. Building seizure and demolition
Although rare in case of bathroom remodeling, a major renovation without a proper permit can lead to the building being seized and demolished.
4. Problems with resale
When you put your home up for sale, it usually goes through a buyer inspection. And among other things, these inspections also check for any non-permit work.
Now, if the buyer finds out that you had a remodeling without permit, they can reduce their offer significantly or even walk out of the deal.
5. Insurance denial
Insurance companies clearly mention in their policy documents that they don’t provide coverage in case of an unpermitted work.
So if any damages result from non-permit remodeling, your insurance provider can deny your claim for coverage.
How to obtain a permit for bathroom remodel?
When it comes to obtaining a bathroom remodel permit there’s a slew of processes that you’ll have to follow. And it starts with reaching out to the building department since they’re the ones who’ll permit your permit.
Now, the entire process for permit application, processing, and approval might seem overwhelming.
So, for your ease of understanding, I’ve broken it down into a four-step process, which includes:
Step 1. Reach out to the building department
The first step in acquiring a bathroom remodeling permit, you’ll have to get in touch with your local building department officials and explain the scope of your project.
These officials will examine your project and inform you whether or not do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel.
Also, the building department in New York offers online resources to help you determine if your project needs a permit.
Step 2. Submit your bathroom remodel plans
Once you’re sure that your project does indeed need a permit, you can go ahead and submit your remodel plans at the building department. This will include everything from plumbing updates to electrical rewiring to any structural changes you plan on undertaking.
Step 3. Pay permit application fees
Remodeling permits require payment of a permit application fees, something you’ll pay at the time of submitting your remodel plan.
And for a 1-3 family home in New York, this fee ranges from $0.12 per square foot to $.06 per square foot. However, the total fee can’t be less than $100.
Step 4. Prepare for inspection
An inspector from the building department will visit your home at different stages of the remodel. Herein, they will assess your project to see if it meets the building codes.
For instance, they might inspect plumbing rough-ins or electrical work before walls are closed up. Also, once your remodel is complete, they will carry out a final inspection and approve your project.
Bonus: Always hire a licensed contractor for bathroom renovation permit
While there’s no written rule that requires you to hire a licensed general contractor for permit application, hiring one can make your life easier.
How?
For starters, the bathroom remodel permit application process is complex and tricky as you’ve to navigate a lot of laws and sub-laws. And unless you’re well versed with ever changing New York building codes, this can be very confusing and time-consuming.
Now, your local licensed contractor works through these codes on a daily basis. .
Also, they know what kind of projects are likely to be permitted or rejected. So, from large bathroom renovation to small kitchen remodel design ideas, and more, you can expect their continued assistance with everything.
Moreover, there are certain permit types that explicitly require a contractor to file an application.
For instance, if your bathroom remodel involves major plumbing wear and tear, you’ll need a NY Registered Design Professional to submit permit documents. Similarly, you’ll need an electrical contractor to file an electrical plan review for major electrical work.
Overall, having a licensed and seasoned contractor by your side can help you navigate the bathroom remodel permit process way more efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a permit to remodel a bathroom?
The answer to whether or not do you need a permit for bathroom remodel depends on the scope of your remodeling project.
That’s because while cosmetic updates involving minor alterations are exempt from permit requirements, that’s not the case with major upgrades.
In fact, it is mandatory to obtain an ALT-2 permit application for any major bathroom renovation.
Do you need a permit to tile your bathroom?
No, you don’t.
Removing existing tiles or adding new ones to your bathroom doesn’t damage or compromise your home’s structural systems. As such, this is considered a minor alteration and is exempt from permit requirement.
Do you need permit to replace bathtub?
No, bathtub replacement doesn’t require a permit even though it involves plumbing work. That’s because you’re not working around or altering the main plumbing lines.
Can you move toilet in bathroom without a permit?
Yes, you can move the toilet in your bathroom without filing for a permit as long as it doesn’t require changing or upgrading the main plumbing line.
What happens if you go forward with a bathroom remodel without permit?
I am often asked, ‘Can I remodel my bathroom without a permit?’
And my answer is yes, but only till your project is minor and it doesn’t involve extensive wear and tear.
Now, if you move ahead with the latter without a permit, you can be charged hefty fines by the local building department. Also, not only will you have to reverse the non-permit upgrades but you might also be denied insurance.
What happens if you add a bathroom without a permit?
Just like bathroom renovations without permits, adding a new bathroom without obtaining a permit can land you in trouble.
Moreover, new home additions like bathrooms without permit can also be subject to a court case. And the court can order your building to be seized and for new structures to be demolished if they violate local codes.
How to get a permit to add a bathroom?
The permit application process for a new bathroom is the same as that of a bathroom remodel permit. Meaning you’ll have to reach out to the building department, submit your bathroom plan, pay the application fees, and pass the inspection process.
How much does it cost to obtain a permit for bathroom remodel?
While the exact cost of permit application and processing varies for different regions, here’s an estimated permit cost in New York City:
1. For 1-3 single family homes: $0.12 per square foot to $.06 per square foot with $100 being the minimum fees.
2. For buildings more than 7 stories or 1000 square feet: $0.26 per square foot to $0.45 per square foot with $290 being the minimum fees.
Conclusion
So far in this blog, I’ve answered everything from when do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel, why you need one, and how you can go about with permit application.
Also, I’ve highlighted the dangers of moving without a permit and provided essential information and resources that might help with obtaining a permit.
Need further assistance with your permit application or overall bathroom remodeling project?
You can get in touch with us!
At Creative Design Ceramic Tile & Bath, we are NY State licensed contractors with experience spanning decades. And we’ve got all your home remodeling projects covered on a budget.