Do I Need A Building Permit To Finish My Attic

Finished is important to remember when you re measuring an empty attic space.

Do i need a building permit to finish my attic.

The basic space requirements for a finished attic boil down to the sizes of the finished rooms. A contractor or a local building official can help you assess how the rule will apply to your attic and how modifications like dormers can resolve height shortcomings. Have a pro check the structure. To satisfy building code you need to have enough space and the right kind of space to meet these following regulations.

First check for head clearance. Flooring ceiling and wall materials and other elements will reduce headroom and floor space and it s the finished area that matters. Many older homes simply do not have the right types of attics to construe this space. Space regulations are often a deal breaker for many homeowners.

Once you have a permit install subfloor panels over the floor joists so you can lay down flooring. A finished attic weighs a lot more than boxes of off season duds. That s measured after you finish the ceiling if you don t have enough height you ll have to raise the roof line and that adds a lot to your construction costs. Before finishing an attic get the necessary permits from your local housing commission so you don t get in trouble later on if you try to sell your house.