Although obtaining an electrical building permit for your project or remodel may seem like a chore, permits are beneficial to both homeowners and contractors.
First, let’s look at scenarios in which you need, by law or code, an electrical permit in Nevada, then we’ll discuss why it’s a good idea.
Do You Need a Building Permit?
In general, if you’re adding to an existing structure–your house, garage, she-shed etc, you’ll need to obtain a permit. Also, if you’re adding a new structure to your property, you’ll need to obtain permits.
If you are reconfiguring an existing space into something new you’ll need a permit. For instance, if you’re converting a balcony into a loft, or a garage into a mother-in-law apartment.
More specifically, electrical permits are needed any time you are installing or altering the wiring in your house. They are also needed to install or alter any electrical device, like adding a car charger, for example.
If you run additional wiring in your home in order to install an outlet, switch or fixture you’ll need an electrical permit. So if you’re adding a ceiling fan or can lights to a part of your home that is not already wired, a permit is necessary.
You’ll also need an electrical permit if you are replacing, upgrading or moving an electrical panel, or installing a photovoltaic system,
You don’t need an electrical permit to repair fixtures or switches when no new wiring is required. And, you don’t need a permit if you are replacing or upgrading “same for same.” or “like for like.”
For example, you can upgrade a regular light switch to a dimmer switch in the same location without an electrical permit.
You can also replace breakers, light bulbs and appliances that run on less than 30 amps, install low-voltage wiring for cable, alarm systems, intercoms or phones and install doorbells without acquiring a permit.
The Benefits of Building Permits
Show Proof of Upgrades
There are legal requirements that must be met when insuring, selling or appraising your home. One requirement is to obtain a permit that shows proof of electrical upgrades. When selling the house, this permit helps buyers to know that you are up to code and that your house is safe. The insurance company needs documented proof that your home or building is safe and code compliant to avoid or defend in lawsuits.
Prevent Fire Hazards
An electrical permit is proof that the building meets recommended safety standards. These standards are necessary to prevent or reduce the risks of fire. Many fires occur due to faulty wiring that is caused by old age, overused circuits, etc.
The permit does not prevent the actual fire, but it does protect buyers from buying unsafe houses. It also prevents tenants from renting in buildings without permits where there are serious fire hazards.
Obey Local Building Codes
Local building codes regulate the installation, repair and maintenance of electrical systems. Electrical codes affect how electrical wires are installed in a building. For example, any new wiring in the building requires that you obtain a permit; however, repairing or replacing the same wiring does not require a permit.
A permit indicates that a building meets all electrical codes at the local, state or national level. Most cities and states have laws that affect how lighting and electrical systems are installed and Nevada is no exception.
Building owners who do not comply with the laws are issued fines for noncompliance. In addition, they have to remove the inadequate systems and reinstall new systems that meet legal requirements. You can be sure work is code-compliant with a permit.
Adhere to the National Electrical Code
The National Electrical Code is a standardized system for enforcing electrical safety. These standards were defined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and describe the widely accepted methods used for wiring buildings. In the U.S., most states and cities adopt some form of these codes.
The Work gets Inspected.
When a permit is issued, an inspection by a qualified local inspector is required. This second set of eyes ensures that you or the contractor you’ve hired has done their job correctly and safely.
In Conclusion
An electrical permit is made to secure the safety of home and building users. Many fires, electrocutions and burns occur because of faulty wires. All electrical equipment is potentially hazardous to work with and must meet minimum safety standards. Electrical codes are needed to determine how repairs, installations and maintenance of electrical equipment are to be made.
A building permit is the documented proof that all legal requirements have been made. If you own or maintain a home, or any type of building, learn more about Nevada electrical permit codes and the importance of following each one. Below are some helpful links:
City of Las Vegas Building Permits
North Las Vegas Building Permits
If you’re planning an electrical project or upgrade and have a question, give us a call or email us today.
While the permitting process may seem complicated, our knowledgeable staff has plenty of experience with plans, permits and inspections. We can make the process simple for you while ensuring your project is completed safely, compliantly and correctly.
Photo credit: Aavaaz home builder [CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]
