Do You Need a Permit To Remodel a Bathroom in Marietta, GA?

A bathroom remodel is a great way to spruce up any home and increase its value, functionality, and comfort. Whether a homeowner attempts a DIY bathroom upgrade or hires a general contractor, their project might require major changes to the property, often leading to the question, "Do you need a permit to remodel a bathroom?"

When seeking a professional bathroom remodel in Marietta, GA, from R Squared Restoration & Remodeling, homeowners can be confident their contractor will handle all building permits. Still, it helps to know what types of permits are necessary for a bathroom remodel before starting the project. 

Are Permits Necessary for Bathroom Remodels in Marietta?

For anyone asking, "Do you need a permit to remodel a bathroom?" the short answer is "most likely." Permits are essential for major building projects because they provide a solid sense of security against faulty work. When a city issues building permits, an inspector will periodically check the project's status and ensure the contractor or homeowner performs all tasks correctly according to municipal building codes. 

Any time a property owner wants to make a major change to their bathroom, like installing a new toilet or shower, they must have a permit. In Marietta, GA, permits are also essential for enlarging a room, demolishing structures, and installing or altering electrical, gas, and plumbing lines. 

Fortunately, a general contractor or homeowner won't need government approval for some bathroom remodeling projects, such as:

• Installing new light fixtures, hardware, and outlets in their current positions
• Painting walls
• Installing new drywall
• Adding amenities like shower curtains, towel hangers, or shelving
• Installing new flooring

While those projects can undoubtedly give a bathroom a fresh new look with improved functionality, they don't create significant changes to the room's layout, plumbing, or electrical systems. As such, permits usually aren't necessary to complete them. 

Types of Bathroom Permits

To begin any bathroom remodeling project on the right foot, knowing which type of permits the contractor may need is a must. Bathroom remodeling permits fall into three categories:

• Structural changes for the bathroom's layout
• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing permits to alter existing systems or install new ones
• Fixture installation permits for direct fixture changes

It can be tricky knowing which projects require permits. For example, replacing a toilet or faucet could be a cosmetic change that doesn't require city approval. Yet, if the replacement involves modifications to the water shutoff valves or pipelines, then the general contractor would need a permit to alter the bathroom's plumbing. 

Despite the complexities that often surround the need for bathroom remodel permits, homeowners can rely on reputable general contractors to submit the necessary documentation to acquire permits for the construction project. Qualified remodeling companies in Marietta know the permit requirements and standards so they can help their customers navigate the permit process. 

Permit Requirements for Residential Properties in Marietta

In Marietta, GA, property owners and general contractors can apply for a remodel bathroom permit. The price for a residential permit is $5 per $1,000 of the entire remodeling cost, including labor and materials. The applicant must also pay a $50 base fee. 

As long as a homeowner or property owner meets the city's guidelines on the Homeowner Affidavit, they can act as their own building contractor and DIY their bathroom remodel. They must complete the Homeowner Affidavit, notarize it, and submit the document with a permit proposal.

A general contractor won't need an affidavit to acquire a building permit. However, they must submit these documents to secure a permit:

• Copy of their driver's license
• Copy of their state license
• Copy of their business license
• Construction plans with dimensional drawings and floorplans

How To Get a Permit To Remodel a Bathroom

After learning the answer to "Do you need a permit to remodel a bathroom?" it's time to learn how to get one. Some locations require people to get permits from their county instead of their city. Applicants must file with the city for building permits in Marietta, GA. 

Most permit application requirements include a written proposal for the construction project. The proposal for a remodeling project should include any layout changes, alterations to plumbing or electrical systems, and the overall scope of the project.

Marietta applicants should submit their plans online through a special website. Permit approval can take up to six months and will expire within a year. 

Get Help With an Upcoming Construction Project With R Squared Restoration & Remodeling

Instead of asking, "Do you need a permit to remodel a bathroom?" homeowners in Marietta, GA, can put their construction projects in the hands of the professionals at R Squared Restoration & Remodeling. The company has almost a decade of experience providing outstanding bathroom and kitchen remodeling services as well as restoration services for life's unfortunate moments. 

Property owners can request a consultation for their next home improvement project from R Squared Restoration & Remodeling by calling (404) 704-6833.