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1. I am remodeling my home. Which jobs require a permit?

Cosmetic alterations to a property don't require a permit. However, you must apply for a permit for any structural alterations. When you add an addition or outbuilding you will need to apply for a building permit. If you aren't sure if a job requires a permit call the office at 540-375-3036. See Permits for additional information.

2. I am adding gas logs to a fireplace, do I need a permit?

Yes. You will need a permit and an Inspector must approve the location of the tank first.

3. We are installing new kitchen cabinets do we need a permit?

No, this is considered a cosmetic improvement not a structural change.

4. What is the correct way to display a building permit and how long does it have to be kept up?

All building permits must be posted at least five feet from the finished grade on construction sites and must be maintained until all final inspections are made. If, at the time of inspection, building permits are not properly posted as described above, the inspection will not be made. If it is necessary for the inspector to make another trip to the job site as a result of the permit not being properly posted, a re-inspection fee of $30 will be required prior to subsequent inspections being made.

Your building permit must be posted in a location where the inspectors are able to access it and post inspections without walking through mud. This will help us help you keep the interior of your structure free of mud from our shoes. If the permit is posted in an area, which is prone to becoming muddy during periods of rain or snow, gravel or other suitable materials must be used.

5. Is there any thing I can do if my neighbor has abandoned cars or trash on his property? What about an overgrown lawn?

Contact our office at 540-375-3036 and provide a complete address for the property and an explanation of the problem. You will need to provide your name and address. This information is kept confidential.

6. Do the inspections have to be done in a specific order?

Yes, see the Inspection Types section for a comprehensive list.

7. I am adding an additional outlet to my home, do I need a building permit?

Yes.  You need to apply for an Electrical Permit before having the work done.

8. Who can obtain a permit?

Homeowners may obtain their own permits. All others must have their licensed contractors obtain the corresponding permits.

9. Do I have to be present during the inspection?

New construction and vacant homes are typically not an issue since there are no occupants that may be surprised by an inspection. In the case of an occupied home, we would prefer that the applicant(s) or their representative be present during the inspection. If you choose to not have someone present, we will make an on-site effort to announce our presence at an occupied home. It is the responsibility of the applicant(s) to provide safe access to the property and to notify any person(s) or parties who may be in the occupied home during the inspection.

10. What should I know before I hire a contractor?

Most licensed contractors are competent, honest, hardworking, and financially responsible. And yet almost everyone knows someone who has a nightmare story to tell about a remodeling job: the length of time it took; the inconvenience of the noise and dust; or the cost overruns associated with even the smallest project.

Adding a room or updating a kitchen can cost more than a new car, and consumers should take time and care in planning a home improvement project. Unfortunately, most consumers spend less time choosing a contractor than they do choosing a car.

This publication is a brief summary of some of the things you as a consumer can do to avoid costly mistakes and misunderstandings in dealing with your contractor: What You Should Know Before You Hire A Contractor (PDF)