| How do permits protect my home? |
- Permits ensure that a certified building inspector inspects the construction
project or installation. Inspections help make sure work is done safely
and to code. When a city or county inspector approves work, you can
ask questions from an expert and know that the work has been checked
for safety violations. This is of particular value to the do-it-yourselfer
who doesn't make installations every day. Incorrect installations can
result in house fires, flood damage, and/or structural problems.
- Permits are designed to assure that licensed contractors do the work
if the homeowner doesn't handle the job. Only Construction
Contractors Board (CCB) licensed contractors, and those who carry
a trade license, such as plumbers and electricians, are allowed to legally
work in Oregon. State and local building departments issue permits only
to contractors who are properly licensed and bonded.
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| What about value? Getting a permit can save you money! |
- Inspections help ensure that work meets the building code. Inspections not only reveal minor problems that could lead to costly repairs, but also could identify liability and life-safety concerns
like structural weaknesses, dangerous wiring, or defective plumbing.
- When it comes to selling a house, realtors and lenders may require that any construction work is done with permits. If work is not permitted, instead of closing on your home, you'll have to
scramble to catch up with permits and inspections and additional repair work if the installations weren't made to code.
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| Here's what homeowners can do to protect themselves: |
- Insist on permits! It simply doesn't pay to cut corners when it comes to your biggest financial asset, your home.
- Check a contractor's CCB license to ensure that a contractor is legally licensed and bonded
to work in Oregon. Beware of a contractor willing to work without permits.
- Use or insist that the contractor uses only licensed plumbers and electricians. Along with homeowners working
on their own homes, only licensed plumbers and electricians are legally allowed to do plumbing or electrical work in Oregon. Professional trades licenses reflect four years of intense training
and annual continuing education and ensure that contractors are qualified to do the work.
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| How do I get a permit? |
- When you use a licensed contractor, he or she will get the necessary permits. Always request and retain copies for your records.
- If you are doing the work yourself, you can call the local building department or use the Internet. Getting a permit is often as easy as downloading a form and
sending the application and fee to the local jurisdiction.
- County and city offices are set up to help you through the permit process.
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