Do You Need a Permit to Replace Your Windows?

Do You Need a Permit to Replace Your Windows?

September 30, 2019

Whether you’re replacing traditional windows or some specialty windows for your home improvement project, one of the biggest questions you should ask yourself is: do you need a building permit? The answer can be a little tricky to understand and rules vary from one jurisdiction to another. However, certain parts are pretty consistent wherever you are in the country.

Let our window replacement professionals at Renewal by Andersen® of Milwaukee walk you through the typical permit requirements for getting brand new windows and doors.

Do You Need a Permit?

Generally speaking, you will need a building permit if you’re getting brand-new replacement windows. This means the new units will be completely different from the old ones and that the installer will have to re-work the window opening in your walls. However, if you’re simply repairing sashes or replacing some parts of an existing window, permits are usually not needed.

Building Codes

One of the biggest reasons building permits are needed when you’re replacing an entire window is safety. For example, first-floor windows and windows near doors must always have tempered glass. This is a stronger material than regular glass and is necessary to help protect your home against accidents. Additionally, changing the size of windows must also follow fire safety codes, particularly in regards to egress windows. Bedroom windows must always be large enough to serve as an exit in case of an emergency.

Neighborhood Requirements

Finally, some cities might need your windows to follow certain design requirements to maintain the look and feel of a neighborhood. For example, if you live in an area dominated by traditional Victorian architecture with classic double-hung windows, a casement window might not fit well with the rest of your home and your neighbors’, as well.

At Renewal by Andersen of Milwaukee, our professionals can help you get all the needed permits and requirements for a hassle-free window replacement. Give us a call at (262) 522-3034 or fill out our contact form to schedule your no-obligation in-home design consultation and get a free estimate today. We serve Milwaukee, WI.

Hear From Our Customers

This was a great crew to work with. Both the original install manager we worked with (Jay) and the install team (Daniel, Mason, Tony, Ethan, and Jose). Everyone was very professional and knowledgable. They answered all my questions and the end result on the house is great. In 3 days they replaced an old bay window with a new bay window, a set of french doors on the patio with a sliding patio door, and our old front door with a new front door and storm door.

I cant express how happy we are with choosing Andersen for our window installation. Our sales representative was knowledgeable with product and answered any questions we had without hesitation. I did also fill out a survey that was sent in an email, but sadly I failed to personally name the two gentlemen that performed the actual installation. Barrett and Francisco were our guys, and let me tell you, they were outstanding!!! They did Excellent work and were professional as well as efficient and made this a smooth, none evasive process for us. I strongly recommend this company and these installers to anyone in need of windows!!! My husband and I could not be more pleased we chose Andersen for replacing our windows!!!

Jason and Brett did an awesome job installing our doors. We had separate installers a month earlier for our windows who also did a fantastic job. They were all very professional and cleaned up almost better than the area looked before the installation! Since these were both jobs that took more than one day the installers were great at keeping us informed on the status of where the project was at along the way.

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