What do I need to know about building permits, codes and standards before I start energy-efficient renovations to my house?

While you’re at the planning stage, check with your municipality’s building department to find out which permits you’ll need. This varies from province to province but usually special permits are required for any changes to plumbing, heating and electrical wiring. Building permits are also required for any excavation, additions, changes, or alterations to the walls of a building. The purpose of the permit process and the related inspections is to ensure that the work on your home meets provincial or municipal requirements for health and safety, and that is structurally sound. Often, building codes will state that products or installation methods must conform to a certain standard.