One of the first questions to ask before a renovation is: "Do I need a permit for this?" Work done without a required permit can cause problems when you sell, affect insurance and may have to be opened up later. The information below is a general guide; always confirm with your municipality.

When is a permit usually required?

According to the City of Toronto, under Ontario's Building Code Act you need a building permit to:

• Build a new structure or an addition (extra storey, garage, porch, deck)
• Make structural changes (removing a load-bearing wall, adding a window or door opening)
• Install new plumbing or alter existing plumbing or mechanical systems
• Demolish all or part of a building
• Change a building's use (for example, turning a house into multiple units), even with no construction

What usually doesn't need a permit?

• Painting, wallpaper and similar finishes
• Replacing roofing material when no structural work is needed
• Finishing a basement with no structural or material alterations
• Installing a sump pump

Even when no permit is needed, the work must still comply with the zoning bylaw.

Electrical work: ESA notification

In Ontario, electrical work follows a separate process from the building permit. The Ontario Electrical Safety Code requires almost all electrical work to be reported to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), including small jobs such as adding outlets. The licensed electrical contractor (LEC) doing the work usually files the notification.

How to proceed

• Define the scope of your project.
• Ask your municipality whether a permit is needed and get the answer in writing.
• Use licensed trades for electrical and plumbing work.
• Keep your permit and inspection records.

During the estimate we review with you whether your project needs a permit. Contact us for a free estimate.