Understanding Mariemont Permits for Remodeling and Repairs

By Rod Hollloway

Permits for remodels and repairs continues to be the largest compliance issue for the building department. Over the past year, I’ve had to have many conversations with homeowners and contractors on this topic, which is both time consuming and costly for Village resources. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to insure they are permitted, so I would strongly recommend you have this conversation prior to giving the go ahead or awarding any contractor your business.

Recall from the March 2022 Town Crier article, the details of what you are remodeling or repairing dictates whether a permit is required. The Village follows the standards of the Ohio Building (Residential) Code, to both determine whether a permit is required as well as whether

Council Representatives

Mayor Bill Brown mayor@mariemont.org

Rob Bartlett rbartlett@mariemont.org

Susan Brownknight sbrownknight@mariemont.org

Leah Geldbaugh lgeldbaugh@mariemont.org

Marcy Lewis mlewis@mariemont.org

Kelly Rankin krankin@mariemont.org

Randy York ryork@mariemont.org mariemont.org or Village of Mariemont Tax Department, 6907 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, OH 45227. the remodel and/or repair is code compliant. Typical trigger points for when a permit would be required for your remodel or repair include:

• Changes to plumbing systems (supply, vent, or drains)

• Changes to electrical systems (new wiring, changes to your panel)

• Changes to structural elements (framing, walls, roofs, windows, doors, decks)

• Changes in use (re-defining attics, basements, garage spaces as inhabitable)

• Changes to life safety items (windows, egress, CO / fire systems)

The best course of action when considering a remodel or repair is to contact the building department via email (bldgdept@mariemont. org) or via phone at 513-271-3315, option #4, to discuss the appropriate next steps prior to selecting your contractor.

Most reputable contractors will discuss the need for permitting to ensure the quality and code compliance of their work. Be aware that if not discussed, this could be a signal that your contractor is not licensed or qualified to perform the work. As the Village maintains records of remodels, we can also verify the existence of a valid permit if a realtor (often requested for selling recently renovated property or to understand inspection remedies) or insurance agent contacts our office (in case of a damage claim).

The cost for a remodel/repair permit will be insignificant compared to what you are spending on the project, providing you with assurance that the work is done in compliance with all applicable codes. Being proactive with your contractor on evaluating the permitting needs will save you time and money, while avoiding the risk of costly rework and/or fines.

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