ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Permit? What permit?

Okay, at what point do you decide to pull a permit?
If someone wants a ceiling fan installed, and you charge $145.00, do you then add $75.00 for permit&inspection?
How about-
Installing a single new outdoor receptacle, or 6 recessed incandescents in a basement?
The reason I'm asking is that Consumer Reports magazine had a feature on the safety of residential electrical systems. It mentioned that, although permitting helps a municipality ensure safe installations, many customers decline them to save time & money.
Thoughts? Confessions?

Redsy,

I think that's mostly true. I see many people that do not want to spend the money for the permit or inspection fee. Here that would amount to over $100. There's not much that you can do about it.

Bill

If you look at it, a permit is not much different than a tax. You know how people hate to pay taxes. I don't deal with it much because people in the commercial end of the trade are used to paying for permits, ect. I would just be honest with your customers, and let them make the choice.

Beuracracy is a double edged sword. I struggle with the same Q too. Our permits are dirt cheap, i can't believe the state even makes gas $$ out of it, but they are so shorthanded i may not get inspected even if i do pull a permit.

In the area where I live an electrical permit is required for just about all electrical work. If caught without one, a fine and suspended electrical license might result.

Redsy,

I have stuggled with this also. I mostly agree with you about the permit cost sometimes being excessive compared to the price of the job. However, on larger jobs I do not give the customer the option of declining a permit. After all it is my license, without it I can make no money. i am sure the insurance people would have something to say also.

Isn't there a liability issue do or don't ?

I work similarly. Most of our localities require permits for even installing one receptacle. It is a risk to not obtain permits for any job, but realistically, you wouldn't get any residential work if you insist on a permit for every little thing. Service upgrades, pool & spa wiring, etc. are a different story.

in my area of south carolina a permit is not required for anything under $2500 unless it's new construction or a meter/service change out. the smaller cities are worried more about a business licenses's than permits and in the general area there are 6 towns that require from $85 to $150 each and thats for the first $2000 bid price.
ken m