
Crawl space maintenance can help improve indoor air quality and avoid structural damage. Learn how much crawl space cleaning costs and when to schedule it.
Minor foundation repairs won’t require a permit, but anything structural will
Minor foundation repairs like sealing cracks and some waterproofing methods don’t require permits.
Any repair that’s considered structural or involves excavation will require permits.
Failing to get necessary permits can result in violation fees, decreased home value, and project delays.
Building permits may seem like unnecessary red tape, but in the case of foundation repairs, they’re an important part of the repair process that can help ensure your home is safe after the work is done. In this guide, we’ll discuss whether or not you need a permit for foundation repair, why they’re so important, how much they cost, and more.
Any foundation repair that’s considered structural in nature—like underpinning or mudjacking for your main structure—will require permits. More minor repairs—like sealing cracks to prevent water intrusion—won’t require permits. Your foundation contractor will be able to confirm whether or not you need permits, and they’ll often pull them for you if your project requires them.
You’ll also need a permit to pour concrete for a foundation, as this is considered structural work.
If you’ve already had a structural engineer or local foundation repair company determine what work your foundation requires, chances are they can let you know if you’ll need permits. If not, you can use the guide below to help you decide. Note that requirements can vary by location, so you should check with a professional or your local building department before proceeding.
Requires Permit | No Permit Required |
---|---|
Beam replacement | Carbon fiber straps |
French drain | Crack sealing |
Mudjacking | Epoxy injection |
Polyjacking | Re-shimming |
Tieback install | Resurfacing |
Underpinning | Waterproof paint |
Permits are an important part of major renovations and home repairs, including foundation repairs, because they ensure your contractor abides by building codes and does the work safely. Your building department will conduct one or more inspections before or after the contractor completes the repair and point out any issues with the quality of the work or the safety of the structure afterward.
If you fail to get the proper permits for your foundation repair, your building department can halt the work once it’s underway and cause major delays for your project, in which case you’ll have to get permits anyway. Getting them before the work begins can ensure your project is completed as quickly as possible.
Additionally, your building department can impose fees for completing work without a permit, which will drive up your foundation repair costs. Ultimately, you could end up saving money on the job by making sure your contractor pulls the necessary permits before they begin.
Permits for foundation repair often cost between $50 and $200, depending on the work your contractor is doing. In the case of major structural repair, like for underpinning, your permit could climb above that number if it ends up being a percentage of the total repair cost. You can confirm permit costs with your contractor or building department before the work begins.
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Crawl space maintenance can help improve indoor air quality and avoid structural damage. Learn how much crawl space cleaning costs and when to schedule it.
When a sill plate begins to crumble, it needs to be replaced ASAP. But how much does sill plate replacement cost? Here's what you need to know.
Staying ahead of foundation problems can save you time and effort. Learn how much foundation inspections cost and what affects how much you’ll pay.
Some cracks in your drywall are harmless, while others require attention. Learn if cracks in your drywall indicate foundation problems and what steps to take.
Discover how much concrete footing costs to plan your project. Learn about average prices, cost factors, and ways to save when installing concrete footings.
All foundations settle, but some can develop related structural issues. Use this guide to identify foundation settlement and determine when to take action.