City officials say paperwork should come before picking out paint colors when it comes to home makeovers.
Some work requires a permit, said city planner Dennis Avery, and this isn't just government red tape.
Permits and city codes help protect property owners from shoddy work and keep people safe, according to Avery.
"For the protection of the property owner is why some of these things are done," he said. "We go in and inspect, upon request, when permits are obtained. That should give assurance (the work) meets our codes and standards."
Avery recommended calling city hall to talk to the building inspector or someone else from the planning department before buying supplies or starting work.
This is the best way to know what city codes need to be followed and if a permit is required, he said.
"It doesn't cost anything to come and talk to us or ask us questions. You can usually save yourself some money by starting here," he said.
Not all work requires a permit, such as simple maintenance.
Work that does require a permit includes: replacement of a roof; installation of new electrical or plumbing lines and service; and additions or new construction.
Residential permits for major repairs are $3 per $1,000 project cost, with a $10 minimum. There is a $15 minimum if the cost is over $5,000.
Residential new construction permit costs are set by a formula, based on square feet.
A homeowner can also receive a permit to do their own electrical and plumbing work, under certain criteria. This does not mean a homeowner can hire an unlicensed person to do the work, Avery added.
The individual doing the work must own and live in the house.
Avery advised that when hiring someone to do a project, it is important to check to see if the contractor is insured and to have a written contract in place covering what work will be done.
Inspections will not be done until the proper permits are obtained, he said.
City hall cannot recommend a person or company to do work, Avery said, but it can tell the resident if that person is licensed.
Residents can also contact suppliers, such as lumber yards, for recommendations on contractors.