Dealing with Codes & Regulations

 

 

Kitchen remodeling can be an exciting and rewarding process that not only adds value to your home, but also enjoyment as your family uses the more functional space. When working with a kitchen professional or doing it on your own, there are issues that may come up that most homeowners are not aware of before they start. These have to do with the numerous codes and regulations that must be followed in order to protect the future owners of your home when the time comes to sell and move on.

One advantage to working with a professional is that they are aware of these rules, work with them every day, and can incorporate them into the design and execution of your kitchen renovation project. For those who are doing it on their own, if these rules are not followed,  the changes necessary to bring your project up to current code could prove very costly and/or could lead to the potential home buyer backing out of the purchase.

Every municipality across the country has a building department that follows some sort of building code. Some rely on the national standard building code, where others have state regulations that go beyond the national standard. The need for permits on partial projects is also an area where some departments have stricter rules than others. There are also new Federal Regulations that have recently been put into effect that concern energy standards and potential hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead that could present problems down the road if not followed today.

If you are working with a kitchen professional, make sure that you discuss the Codes and Regulations that are applicable in your area and whether they will be following these laws. If you are tackling your kitchen project yourself, make sure you contact the local building inspection department and discuss with them the scope of your planned project, and whether licensed contractors are required to do portions of the work under permit.

The Codes and Regulations established are for your protection as well as for the protection of future home owners. Make sure you are aware of these issues or follow the advice of your kitchen professional. Sometimes it costs less to spend more in the beginning. Have a great kitchen renovation!