🏗️ Do You Need a Permit for Your Remodel? The Homeowner’s Guide to Doing It Right

Remodeling a home is one of the most exciting projects you can undertake — whether it’s upgrading your kitchen, transforming your basement into a livable space, or finally replacing that aging roof. But before you start tearing down walls or rerouting plumbing, there’s one big question every homeowner should ask:

From my experience remodeling homes across Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland, the short answer is: yes, in most cases you absolutely do. And skipping that step can lead to headaches — financial, legal, and even structural.

When I sit down with clients ready to remodel, I always tell them the same thing: permits are not just paperwork — they’re protection.

Permits make sure that your construction project follows local building codes, which are there to safeguard your home’s structure and your family’s safety.

They also protect your investment. Remodeling without the right permits can backfire badly when it’s time to sell your home. I’ve seen deals fall through or property values drop because the work wasn’t properly documented. Buyers (and their agents) often ask for proof that improvements were permitted. Without that, you’re in murky waters.

Worse still, insurance companies may deny claims if they discover unpermitted work was involved. And if you’re refinancing or getting a home equity loan, unpermitted upgrades might raise red flags with lenders.