Are you planning to give your home a fresh look? Remodeling your home can be a great way to bring some new life into your living space and make essential upgrades! As you assess the work you need to do, don’t forget to check which zoning and work permits you’ll need for your renovation project.
In Illinois, some remodeling projects require building permits, while others don’t. Aside from hiring an architect, contractor, and possibly an interior designer, let’s not forget the legal bases you need to cover! Our real estate law expert attorney Ben Weaver can help you get permission for your remodeling plans so you can do everything properly and avoid any fines or penalties.
In Illinois, homeowners need permits for certain tasks. Let’s go over which types of home projects require permits…
Why Do You Need a Permit for Remodeling Your Home in Illinois?
Obtaining a permit may sound like an unnecessary hassle, but they are vital in some cases. Here are a few reasons why building permits are so critical:
- Safety and Building Codes: Obtaining a permit ensures all repairs and work comply with local building codes and safety standards. It prevents potential hazards, ensuring that the structure is safe for occupants.
- Quality Assurance: By requiring a permit, authorities can inspect the project at different stages to verify that the work is done correctly and up to the required standards.
- Zoning and Land Use: Permits also help enforce zoning regulations and ensure that the projects are permitted in the area.
- Property Value: Properly permitted and documented improvements can increase the value.
- Liability and Insurance: Unpermitted work can lead to problems with insurance coverage and can increase liability for homeowners if something goes wrong.
- Neighborhood Harmony: Permitting helps maintain order and harmony in the community by ensuring that renovations comply with regulations.
Permit requirements may vary based on the size and type of the construction project. Before starting your project, make sure to check with the local building department. Different areas in Illinois may have specific regulations for permits.
When Do Homeowners Require a Permit for Renovations in Illinois?
When you remodel your home, it is best to consult a legal expert on what laws and permits you need to comply with. Since all remodeling work is different and unique, and laws vary depending on the scale and nature of the work, different permits may be required. Here is a list of common remodeling projects subject to permits…
Common Home Projects That Require Permits In Illinois:
- Structural Changes:
- Adding or removing walls
- Modifying load-bearing beams or columns
- Changes to roof structures
- Foundation work or structural repairs
- Electrical Work:
- Adding or modifying electrical circuits
- Upgrading electrical panels
- Installing new electrical outlets or fixtures
- Plumbing:
- Adding or relocating plumbing fixtures (sinks, toilets, showers)
- Changing or extending water supply lines
- Altering sewer or drainage lines
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning):
- Installing or modifying HVAC systems
- Adding or altering air ducts
- Windows and Doors:
- Enlarging or altering window or door openings
- Installing new windows or exterior doors
- Changing the type of windows or doors
- Roofing:
- Roof replacement or major repairs
- Adding skylights or roof vents
- Deck and Porch:
- Building or replacing a deck or porch
- Enclosing an existing porch
- Basement and Attic Conversions:
- Finishing a basement or attic to create a livable space
- Egress window installation for basement bedrooms
- Swimming Pools and Spas:
- Installing an in-ground or above-ground swimming pool
- Adding a hot tub or spa
- Demolition:
- Demolishing a structure, even if it’s just a part of the home
- Solar Panel Installation:
- Installing solar panels on the roof
Common Home Projects That Don’t Require Permits In Illinois:
Here is a general bullet list of some home remodeling projects that typically may not require a permit…
- Cosmetic Changes:
- Painting the interior or exterior of the house
- Installing wallpaper or wall treatments
- Adding or replacing carpeting or flooring
- Installing crown molding or decorative trim
- Cabinetry and Countertops:
- Replacing kitchen cabinets or countertops
- Installing new bathroom vanities
- Fixture Replacements:
- Replacing light fixtures
- Swapping out faucets and plumbing fixtures
- Upgrading door handles and knobs
- Landscaping:
- Planting new trees, shrubs, or flowers
- Installing garden beds or decorative features
- Adding or replacing lawn sod
- Minor Repairs:
- Minor roof repairs (e.g., fixing small leaks)
- Patching or repairing drywall
- Fixing minor plumbing issues
- Non-structural Changes:
- Changing interior wall coverings (e.g., drywall or paneling)
- Installing shelving or storage units that do not require structural changes
- Replacing windows or doors of the same size and type
- Floor Finishing:
- Sanding and refinishing hardwood floors
Remember, permit requirements can differ based on local rules and the project size. In Illinois, ask your local building department or permit office if you need a permit for remodeling. To ensure you follow the rules, ask the right people about building codes and regulations.
Different Types of Building Permits
The Department of Building specifies different permits required for construction and renovation projects. Based on the work, you could be subject to one or more permits. Here are some that are commonly required:
- Addition permits
- Demolish permits
- Electrical permits
- Zoning use permits
Work the Real Estate Experts at 23 Legal!
Renovations are overwhelming if you take them on alone. And the paperwork? That’s a full-time job in itself! The design, construction, regulations, and laws can make the process feel stressful instead of exciting. If you need help with zoning, contracts, or resolving disputes, we can assist you!
As you imagine and design your new home, leave the legal paperwork to the 23 Legal team. With years of experience and legal prowess, he is Chicago homeowners’ favorite real estate attorney to work with. We’ll make sure your project is set up for success by following local and state laws. If you’re in the process of remodeling or are looking to get it started, contact Ben Weaver today for legal counsel and reviewing contracts before you break ground!
“I was referred to 23 Legal LLC by a friend who was a former client of the firm. Can’t speak highly enough about Ben and his entire staff’s professionalism, efficiency and responsiveness. You are all true credits to the real estate legal industry. Will definitely hire again for my estate planning in the near future.” – Client Testimonial
Ready to start your home project? We can help!
Accomplish your real estate goals with 23 Legal: (847) 447-6004
Why Choose 23 Legal
23 Legal offers Real Estate and Estate Planning legal services to individuals, families, community associations and small business owners throughout Chicagoland. We know how intimidating “the law” can be. In fact, when most people think of law offices, they think of stuffy leather chairs, huge wooden desks and pompous lawyers who charge outrageous fees. That’s not us! We believe in 1-to-1; the same lawyer should work with you all the way through. Whether you have an estate planning issue, family trust concern, or you have a legal problem in regard to a new home, business, real estate or remodel, you need a lawyer who cares. That’s where Ben comes in! We are great listeners; more than that, we are lawyers who believe that our clients always come first.
