Posts: 10,399
Threads: 2,662
Joined: May 2025
Reputation:
0
I have two projects at my house right now being performed by two different contractors. 1) new heat pump install and 2) new lighting in the kitchen. Tomorrow an inspector is coming out to look at the electrical for the heat pump and I do not expect any problems, BUT contractor number two did not finish the ceiling job on time and I now know that he isn't licensed to do electrical work.
So, when the inspector arrives and sees all the wires hanging from my ceiling what do I say? I would like to be truthful but I would also like to avoid fines or getting the contractor in trouble. Perhaps that is too much to ask. How should I handle this when the inspector arrives?
Thanks.
Posts: 54,611
Threads: 1,938
Joined: May 2025
Reputation:
2
You're screwed. You must always get a permit. The good thing is that you can rip out the stuff put in by the unpermitted contractor. The bad thing is that contractor can still lien your property and sue you for the full contracted amount.
Posts: 11,894
Threads: 520
Joined: Jan 2021
Reputation:
0
Is the lighting in the kitchen is basically replacing fixtures using existing wiring ?
Do they really require a licensed electrician and a permit for it ?
Posts: 57,781
Threads: 5,856
Joined: May 2025
Reputation:
2
Your only hope is if they allow you to do the work sans license and permit. And you can fib. Successfully . Be prepared to answer questions like pull tests on wire nuts.
Or run and get the electrical permit first thing tomorrow morning.
Posts: 11,911
Threads: 606
Joined: May 2025
Reputation:
0
I replaced 3 lights in my kitchen with hanging pendant lights. You're telling me I needed a permit to do that?
Posts: 54,611
Threads: 1,938
Joined: May 2025
Reputation:
2
You could have your permitted contractor early and cancel the inspection, perhaps because you are thinking of changing things. Then get a real electrical contractor to pull a permit and have them redo the work.
Posts: 8,407
Threads: 230
Joined: Apr 2025
Check your city's codes. I wouldn't need permits for either job.
Posts: 24,633
Threads: 1,093
Joined: May 2025
Hell, here they'd probably fine you if you called an inspector out to inspect a replaced fixture...
But yeah, find out what your local code says! And find it out from a licensed contractor.
I can't say I'm a big fan of how "code" gets set in a lot of places (inluding here...) but it IS a case of "render unto Caesar what is Caesars".
