Understanding Plumbing Codes and Permits

The plumbing system in your house probably conforms to the building code in effect today. When you need to make emergency repairs, you do not need a permit. As long as your repairs restore the plumbing to its original condition or better, you have no problem.

All states, counties, and municipalities have adopted building codes to protect the health and safety of their residents. The codes also prevent unscrupulous builders and contractors from using inferior methods and materials in constructing, remodeling, and repairing your house. The details of codes vary from place to place. Materials, design, and methods of construction may vary due to local geography, experience or tradition. Some localities are slow to adopt new materials or methods into their codes. Some places, for example, still do not allow plastic pipe to be used for water supply lines.

Building codes are usually administered and enforced by the building inspector of the state, county, or city in which you live. Even if no one can see what you are doing to the plumbing in your own basement, you must abide by all the rules and regulations of the code, just like the contractor who is building a new house. You are subject to all the same restrictions- and penalties- as the contractor if you don't get a permit when one is required or if your work is not up to the code.

It's not difficult to comply with the codes. It's just a matter of planning ahead and using the right materials and tools for the job. Whether or not your plumbing works the way it's supposed to and meets the code depends not so much on who does it and how many degrees of licenses he or she has, but on how the work is done.

Permits are usually required whenever you make any changes or additions to your plumbing system. Repair or replacement of fixtures or appliances within the existing system, if it does not alter the system in any way, does not generally require a permit. If you are in doubt, ask at your local building inspector's office. Whether or not a permit is required, building inspectors and their staffs are usually very cooperative and helpful.