Renovating Your Kitchen? Chances Are You'll Need a Building Permit

At Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre, we don't begin any renovation project without obtaining the necessary building permit first.
 
"I can’t emphasize enough the importance of permits and inspections,” explains Monarch president Neil Samson. “This is your guarantee that work will be done according to Ontario Building Code Standards and your home will be returned to you in a safe and secure manner."

The City of Pickering's planning and development department describes a building permit as "your formal permission to begin construction or demolition."  

A building permit from the City of Pickering ensures it has approved plans for any new structure, addition or renovation. Most importantly, all approved plans must comply with the Ontario Building Code, local zoning bylaws and other applicable laws and regulations.

From the City of Pickering's Planning and Development website:

It is unlawful to start construction or demolition before you obtain a permit.

Building permits regulate types of construction permitted in the community and ensure that building standards are met. The building permit process protects each homeowner's interests, as well as those of the community at large, and provides for the erection of safe structures.

By obtaining a permit, you can also take advantage of the professional expertise of Building Division staff. Inspectors are good sources of information and can offer suggestions to help solve construction problems, often before they occur. They have extensive hands-on experience, so try to be around during their visits.

In many cases, your designer or contractor will obtain permits on your behalf. But remember, it is the building owner who is ultimately responsible for complying with all building requirements.

For a full list of projects you'll need a building permit for, click here.

If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, click here for more information on obtaining a building permit for your renovation.

While obtaining a building permit from the city or town you live in may seem like a nuisance, it ensures your project is completed according to code and will often safe you time and money later on.

“You’re spending a lot of time, energy and money on your renovation—be safe and protect your investment," says Neil.

Monarch's "Whole-Home" Makeover Continues: The Importance of Inspections and Permits

John and Cindy's home is now insulated, inspected and ready for drywall.

The electrical and plumbing rough-in has been completed and inspected at John and Cindy’s 1,000 sq. foot home in Lawrence Park.

“We found the vent to the basement water closet terminated under the backyard deck instead of being tied in to the main stack,” says Monarch president Neil Samson. “This is just one of many issues that Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre finds on renovation jobsites on an ongoing basis.

“Everything in John and Cindy’s home is now safe, insulated, inspected and ready for drywall. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of permits and inspections,” explains Neil. “This is your guarantee that work will be done to Ontario Building Code Standards and your home will be returned to you in a safe and secure manner.

“We’ve been hearing a lot more stories about insurance companies denying homeowners’ insurance claims because work was done by unlicensed trades and the required permits were not issued. You’re spending a lot of time, energy and money on your renovation—be safe and protect your investment.”

Next week: Finishing begins