When do I need to get a building permit?
When the work is more than an "ordinary repair". Any doubt, please call the Building Inspector.
Do people research your files before they purchase a house or commercial property to see if the proper permits have been obtained and the work inspected?
Can I do my own plumbing or gas work?
No, a licensed plumber or gasfitter must do the work, get a permit and request an inspection of the work. This ensures that the work meets Massachusetts code requirements.
Can I do my own wiring?
No, a licensed electrician must do the work, get a permit, and request an inspection of the work. This ensures that the work meets Massachusetts code requirements.
Who can answer my questions about setback requirements and other zoning questions?
The Building Department office hours are 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday or you can call us at 781-762-1240.
Where can I get a certified plot plan?
Some, not all, are on file in the Building Inspector's Office. Please feel free to call, if you don't have one in your own files.
Does the Building Department have any brochures that I can access?
Yes, see the Residential/Commercial Information page.
Will any penalties result if I do work without the required permits?
Yes. Building code violations are punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both for each such violation. Each day during which a violation exists shall constitute a separate offense. If the violation is not abated and corrected, a criminal complaint will be filed in Dedham District Court.
For work started without the required permit, the permit fee shall be doubled.
A zoning by-law violation is currently $300 per day.
For plumbing/gas violations the fee is doubled for work started without the required permit. A possible criminal complaint may be filed and, if applicable, a revocation of license hearing requested.
For wiring violations, a complaint may be filed with the State and a revocation of license hearing requested.
How much does a permit cost?
Reference the Permit Fees
Norwood's fees generally are the lowest around. Visit other web sites to compare. Churches, synagogues and other places of worship are not charged a fee.
In short, any permit obtained for work done and the subsequent requested inspection are the best and least expensive insurance that you can buy to ensure that: #1 the work is done to code and #2 that your hard earned money is being effectively used....that you are getting what you paid for.
Do inspectors carry identification?
Yes, feel free to ask for it.
I'm new to Norwood, can you recommend a builder, roofing contractor, plumber, electrician, engineer, land surveyor, etc.?
No. We cannot recommend a specific contractor, etc. However, as a resource tool we have assembled a list of builders, roofing contractors etc., who have done work in Norwood, that have a good reputation.
As a rule of thumb most people get an average of 3 estimates before choosing the person who will do the work.
