Does my contractor need to pull the permit?
Why the Contractor Should Pull the Permit
In most jurisdictions, the person or company doing the work must pull the permit. If your contractor is licensed, they typically have an account with the building department and can pull permits quickly.
Having the contractor pull the permit means they are legally responsible for code compliance and inspections. If the work fails inspection, they must fix it at their own cost. If you pull the permit, that responsibility may shift to you.
When You Might Pull It Instead
If you're doing the work yourself as a homeowner, you can pull the permit. But if you hire a contractor, they should pull it. Some homeowners pull the permit to save money, but this can backfire if the contractor does poor work.
In some states, only a licensed contractor can pull permits for certain trades, like electrical or plumbing. Always clarify who will pull the permit before work begins, and get it in writing.
- Contractor is licensed and insured
- Permit is in contractor's name
- Contractor schedules inspections
- Contractor fixes any failed inspection issues
- You avoid liability for code violations
Common mistakes
- Letting an unlicensed contractor pull a permit—they usually can't legally do so.
- Pulling the permit yourself and then hiring a contractor; this can make you responsible for their mistakes.
- Assuming the contractor automatically includes the permit fee; always confirm it's in the contract.
