Pulling a building permit is often the first big step in a renovation. Done right, it protects you and ensures your project meets local building codes. Done wrong, it can slow your project, cost more money, or even result in stop-work orders.

Here are three essential questions every homeowner should ask before walking into city hall or submitting an application online.

1. Do I Actually Need a Permit for This Work?

Not every project requires a building permit. Painting your walls or swapping out flooring? Usually no. Adding a basement entrance, removing a load-bearing wall, or finishing a basement? Almost always yes.

• Check your municipality’s website for permit requirements.
  
  

• Ask your contractor — professionals should know when permits are mandatory.
  
  

• If in doubt, it’s safer to pull a permit than risk fines later.
  
  

2. Who Will Be Responsible for the Permit?

Homeowners are ultimately responsible for ensuring permits are in place, but in many cases:

• Contractors can apply on your behalf as the “agent of the owner.”
  
  

• Reputable companies (like Meinhaus) include permits in the scope of work.
  
  

• Avoid “cash jobs” that sidestep permits — if something goes wrong, you’re on the hook.
  
  

Always clarify in writing whether the homeowner or contractor is handling the application.

3. What Will Inspectors Be Looking For?

Permits come with inspections — and that’s a good thing. Inspections ensure your project is safe, code-compliant, and built to last. But every inspection has its focus:

• Structural permits: inspectors look at framing, beams, and supports.
  
  

• Plumbing permits: drain lines, venting, and water supply.
  
  

• Electrical permits: circuits, load capacity, and grounding.
  
  

Knowing in advance helps you (and your contractor) avoid costly delays at inspection time.

The Bottom Line

Pulling a permit doesn’t need to be stressful. If you can answer these three questions — Do I need one? Who’s responsible? What will inspectors look for? — you’ll be far more prepared for a smooth project.

At Meinhaus, every project we dispatch is reviewed for permit requirements. If it needs one, we guide homeowners through the process and ensure inspections are passed the first time.