The Permit Process in Pittsburgh: What You Need to Know Before You Remodel

Thinking about a kitchen renovation, bathroom update, or full home remodel in the Pittsburgh area? One of the most overlooked—but critical—parts of planning your project is understanding permits. At My Guys Remodeling Experts, we make it our job to handle the red tape so you don’t have to—but here’s what you should know as a homeowner.

Why Permits Matter

Permits aren’t just paperwork—they’re legal requirements that help ensure your remodeling project is:

• Safe

• Up to code

• Built to lastThey also protect you when it comes time to sell your home. Unpermitted work can cause delays or even failed home inspections.

What Types of Projects Typically Need a Permit?

In the City of Pittsburgh and surrounding municipalities, permits are usually required for:

• Structural changes (removing or adding walls)

• Electrical or plumbing work

• New window or door openings

• Additions or basement finishing

• Siding or roofing on some structures

• Major kitchen or bathroom remodels

Cosmetic updates (like painting, flooring, or cabinet replacement) often don’t require permits, but anything involving utilities or altering the structure likely will.

Who Handles the Permits?

At My Guys, we take care of this process for you. That includes:

• Identifying which permits are needed

• Filing applications with the city or township

• Scheduling necessary inspections

We work directly with local code enforcement so your remodel stays compliant every step of the way.

The Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

Permit approval times vary depending on your municipality and the scope of the project. On average:

• Simple permits (like bathroom plumbing) take about 1–2 weeks

• Major projects (like additions) can take 3–6 weeks or longer

That’s why it’s important to factor permit time into your overall remodeling schedule. The good news? Our team stays proactive to help minimize delays.

Inspections: What to Expect

Once work begins, certain stages of the remodel may require inspections. These help verify that your project complies with safety and building codes. Common inspection points include:

• Rough-in plumbing and electrical

• Framing and insulation

• Final finish inspections

We coordinate all of this so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Working with an experienced, licensed contractor like My Guys ensures:

• Your project is fully permitted and legal

• You avoid costly fines or stop-work orders

• Your remodel won’t derail a future home sale or appraisal

DIYers or unlicensed contractors often skip permits to cut corners—but that shortcut can come back to bite you.

Leave the Paperwork to Us

The permit process might seem complicated, but when you work with My Guys Remodeling Experts, it’s one less thing to worry about. We handle the legwork so your remodel is done right—legally, safely, and beautifully.