Do I Need a Permit to Remodel My Kitchen in Charlotte, NC?
Building permits are a hassle at the best of times, and it can be tricky to know when you do or do not need a permit. What may seem like a minor change could, in fact, need a permit due to safety concerns.
Remodeling a kitchen does require a building permit in Charlotte, North Carolina if certain conditions are met. This includes repairs or changes that involve systems such as electrical or plumbing or if the renovation goes over a certain dollar amount.
Read on to learn more about the specifics of kitchen renovations and when a permit is required in Charlotte, NC.
Building Permit Requirements for Charlotte Kitchen Remodels
Assuming that you are renovating your personal home, a building permit is required for any renovation that costs more than $15,000. This includes any and all renovation work that is considered an addition or alteration to the structure, including:
- Adding on a room
- Gutting a space
- Remodeling
- Electrical or plumbing work
Everyday repairs such as under sink plumbing repair or countertop replacement do not require a permit under these rules.
If you do a project that requires a permit and do not obtain one, you can be fined or required to dismantle your new project.
Exceptions to Building Permit Requirements
While the code says that a building permit is required for all projects that cost more than $15,000, there are certain situations where you will need a permit no matter how cheap your renovation is. These include:
- Any work involving load-bearing walls
- Significant plumbing work
- Significant work on heating or air conditioning systems
- Electrical work
- Using materials that are generally not allowed
If you are doing any of this work, you will need to obtain a permit. Keep reading to find out how to apply for and receive your building permit.
Contractor & DIY Renovation Ordinances
North Carolina does allow for do-it-yourself home renovations. This is only allowed for your own home that you yourself are currently residing in. You cannot, for example, remodel a friend’s home without the proper licenses and credentials.
Additionally, doing your own remodeling requires that you do not have any plans to sell or rent out the property within one year after the renovations are complete. Doing so can incur significant fines, as well as a mandate requiring you to hire a professional to come through and inspect or redo the job in its entirety.
Building Permit Application in Charlotte, NC
Assuming that your name is on your home deed and you reside in the house, you can apply for a building permit through Mecklenburg County either in person or through your homeowner portal. An interior renovation without structure additions does not require a building plan.
To get your permit, you will need:
- A completed application form
- Supporting documents, such as a project quote
- A $60 permit fee
- An inspection fee, if applicable, of $45
- A Homeowner Trade Work Certificate of Ownership form, if you are doing it yourself
You can take all of this documentation to the county permit office to obtain your building permit.
Let Portico Help With Your Charlotte Kitchen Remodel
While a building permit can be a pain, you can skip the hassle entirely by hiring a full-service renovation company. At Portico, pulling permits is included in our process to save our clients time.
In the end, you will have a beautiful new kitchen to show for it and all of your ducks in a row with your local government. That peace of mind is definitely worth the time and effort that you put into this renovation project!
Ready to get started with your Charlotte kitchen remodeling project? Contact Portico online, or give our renovation professionals a call at 704-742-2720 today!
