Nobody likes the word permit when it comes to plumbing issues. To most people, the word is synonymous with headache. You have to hire the right people to apply for the permit, and then wait for it to be approved. Meanwhile, your plumbing problem continues, and no work is being done.
Permits, however, are a fact of life in New York City, and it’s important to understand when you need them to avoid serious consequences.
1. When You Need Plumbing Permits
The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) requires permits for “the installation, maintenance, repair, modification, extension or alteration of any waste, domestic water, gas piping, or fire standpipes in any building or piping system.”
In simpler terms, permits are required for:
- Altering, relocating, or rearranging piping. In other words, if any piping is being moved, you need a permit
- Moving or adding new fixtures. For example, if you are moving the location of a toilet, or adding a whole new bathroom, permits are required.
- Any gas piping work.
- Any boiler work.
- Major renovations that require moving pipes or changing the plumbing layout.
When You Don’t Need Plumbing Permits
Minor plumbing repairs do not require permits. For example, if you’re replacing a toilet without moving it, a permit is not required. If the work does not require altering, removing, or rearranging plumbing piping, you generally do not need a permit.
Why You Need Plumbing Permits
The DOB requires permits for most plumbing work to ensure that it complies with building and safety codes. While permits can be a hassle, they are in place to protect people. They are meant to ensure that your home is not damaged, your water does not become contaminated, and that you’re not exposed to mold or bacteria that may develop. Permits require the work to be done by Licensed Master Plumbers and inspected to ensure that it was done properly and meets all safety standards.
Consequences of Not Obtaining a Permit
Failing to obtain a plumbing permit can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Property owners may face hefty fines, stop-work orders, civil or even criminal penalties, and be required to remove or redo the unpermitted work at their own expense. Unpermitted plumbing can also cause issues when selling or insuring a property, because it may fail inspection or invalidate coverage.
Plumbing Work that Affects Stability
Plumbing work that affects the stability of the structure includes projects that alter load-bearing walls, structural supports, or major building systems such as water mains, gas piping, or sewer lines. For example, if plumbing work involves cutting into concrete slabs, relocating fixtures in a way that routes pipes through structural elements, or connecting to new mechanical systems, a plumbing permit and a separate structural review are required. A Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) must file detailed plans demonstrating that the proposed work will not compromise the building’s stability.
Inspections
Any plumbing work that requires a permit must also pass inspections by the DOB to ensure it meets safety and code standards. A Licensed Master Plumber has to arrange these inspections, which usually include a rough-in inspection (before walls are closed) and a final inspection (after the work is complete). Certain systems, like gas piping, require special pressure tests and inspections before they can be used. All work must be approved and “signed off” by the DOB before it’s considered complete.
Permit Process
Water backups in your shower, sinks, or toilets are a clear sign that you have a sewer line blockage. This needs to be addressed immediately. These backups are what can lead to damage and unsanitary conditions.
1. Hire a Licensed Master Plumber (LMP)
Only a Licensed Master Plumber or their registered representative can file for plumbing permits with the DOB. Homeowners or contractors can’t apply directly.
2. File the Plumbing Work Application
The plumber files the application through the DOB’s online system. Depending on the project, this filing may include:
- Detailed plumbing plans or drawings.
- Supporting documents from a Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) if structural or system changes are involved.
- A work scope describing what’s being installed or altered.
For projects that do not require a Professional Engineer (PE) or a Registered Architect (RA), a Licensed Master Plumber can submit a Limited Alteration Application (LAA) to perform specific plumbing work that falls within a defined scope, ensuring full compliance with all Department of Buildings (DOB) codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
3. Plan Review and Approval
The DOB reviews the submitted documents to ensure that the proposed work complies with the NYC Plumbing Code and other building regulations. If everything checks out, the DOB approves the application and issues a work permit. If revisions are needed, the plumber must correct the plans.
4. Perform the Plumbing Work
Once the permit is issued, the plumber can start the work. They must follow all approved plans and code requirements.
5. Schedule Inspections
During and after construction, the DOB must inspect the work:
- Rough-in inspection: Before walls or floors are sealed.
- Final inspection: After all fixtures, piping, and connections are installed.
- Special inspections: For systems like gas piping or backflow preventers.
- Underground Inspection: Required before any piping installed below ground level is covered. This ensures that all underground plumbing is properly installed and code-compliant.
The plumber schedules these inspections through the DOB online system.
6. Pass Inspection and Obtain Sign-Off
If the DOB inspector confirms that the plumbing work meets code and matches the approved plans, the job is signed off in DOB records. For gas-related work, a Gas Authorization must be requested and approved by the Department of Buildings before the final sign-off can be issued.
7. Close Out the Permit
After sign-off, the permit is officially closed. Open or expired permits can cause issues when refinancing, selling the property, or obtaining future permits, so this step is important.
In Closing
Obtaining permits is a time-consuming process, but they are necessary so that you don’t face fines and other penalties. If you are planning a plumbing project, the Licensed Master Plumbers at NY Plumbing Pros are here to help. They are well-versed in the permit process and dedicated to completing your project to the highest standards. Reach out today to learn more.
