Appliance Repair and Replacement Permits

Home Appliance Repairs vs. Replacements

If an appliance is more than 50% through its lifespan and if the cost of one repair is more than 50% of the cost of buying new, you should consider replacing the appliance rather than repairing it. The up-front cost for a new appliance might be higher, but it will likely be less expensive in the long run. New appliances have warranties and are less likely to break down again soon. You can also opt to upgrade to a more energy efficient appliance, where you might qualify for energy efficient rebates [Energy Rebates SEO]. These energy saving appliances will also help you save on your energy bill.

What Are the Hidden Costs When Replacing Old Appliances?

A few examples of hidden costs include:

Gas appliances must be installed in areas that already have gas connections. If not, you would have to install or reroute gas lines in your home.
Upgrading to electrical appliances may require upgrading or adding electrical wiring and circuits.
Structural issues like worn beams, poor drywall, interior wall damage, lack of supports, and insufficient plumbing will have to be addressed prior to appliance installation.
Building permits which do not cover the entire scope of work. To avoid code compliance issues, learn whether or not you need a permit on Symbium’s Appliance Center.

When do I need a building permit?

Many appliances can be safely installed without a contractor, but for some, installation can pose safety concerns when it isn’t handled by a licensed professional. To ensure that the minimum safety requirements of the California Building Codes are met, most construction activities, including alterations, replacements, and repair work in homes require permits and inspections.

The following are some Home Appliance projects that usually require a building permit:

Water heaters almost always require a permit because the unit’s temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve can pose an explosion risk if. A permit inspection which ensures that the appliance has been installed correctly.
Appliances that connect to local gas lines, such as a gas stove
HVAC systems repairs/replacements, like furnaces, wood stoves, range hoods, bath fans, and dryer exhausts.

Tips to make your Home Appliance Repairs & Replacements easier:

Have the brand, model number available when you are ready to file a permit with Symbium. Those details can usually be found on the paperwork that came with the item or on the appliance itself. The Appliance Center on Symbium provides additional information on permits and associated fees and applicable rebates if this information is available.
Get help sooner rather than later. Waiting to fix a minor issue risks more components wearing out in the appliance resulting in a pricier fix. Symbium can help you obtain the proper permit in a matter of minutes with our Appliance Center, helping you get started quicker.

Introduction to the Appliance Center

Symbium hosts an Appliance Center that allows anyone to check whether a permit is required for their particular appliance and scope of work.

Look up your property in either San Jose or Milpitas on Symbium and navigate to the “Appliance Center”, under “projects.” Select the type of appliance, and the permit center will tell you whether a permit is required or not, what type(s) of permits may be required, and what the next steps will be in the process to apply for permits. You can also find out if your appliance qualifies for a rebate through BayREN using Symbium Appliance Center. Learn more about Energy Star Appliance Rebates.