Most likely, a local building department in your city or county has the authority to determine how all new building must be done in your locale. (Some rural areas have no building department.) A building department has exhaustive and detailed lists of regulations (codes) covering new home construction and remodeling projects, including wiring, plumbing, roofing, structural framing, and the installation of permanent appliances (like air-conditioners).

Though it may seem a hassle, your building department is there for your protection. The regulations are not arbitrary, but are based on decades of building experience. A project that is built up to code will likely be safe and durable; a project built without benefit of codes may be both dangerous and flimsy. When it comes time to sell your home, you could be in legal trouble if it is found that significant work was done without being inspected. The consequences of ignoring these regulations can be harsh. You may be required to have the work professionally checked, or you may be ordered to tear out the work and start again. Also, insurance companies may balk at paying a claim for damage done to your house if you have not followed regulations.

As a general rule, the building department and its codes come into play whenever a new permanent structure is built, or when new electrical, plumbing, or gas service is installed.

So for instance, you probably do not need a permit in order to replace an existing toilet, sink, tub, or light fixture. However, if you run new electrical cable or new pipes in order to install fixtures where there were none before, then you need a permit. A sand-laid patio (rather than one that involves a concrete slab), a simple storage shed with no wiring or plumbing, or a small deck that is not attached to the house may be exempt from inspections. However, always check with the building department to be sure. Most codes are based on national standards but may be modified to suit local conditions. For example, construction techniques required for earthquake-prone areas are different than those for other areas, and construction in areas that are consistently wet may require weather-resistant materials in outdoor applications. Whenever you're undertaking home improvements, make sure you know what local building codes apply to your project. In addition, be aware that codes may vary significantly from town to town -- even within the same county. Working with a building department involves several steps. First, go to your local building department and ask for general guidelines for the project you are proposing. They may have copies of regulations for common projects, or they may direct you to reference works.

Second, make a detailed, neat drawing of the project, including a materials list, and show it to an inspector in the office. The inspector may ask for changes and clarifications.

Finally, once your plans are approved, one or more inspections will be scheduled -- typically, one inspection for the rough installation, and one for the finished project.

Get free quotes from appraisers and insepctors.