Do You Need Permission Before Installing a Mini Split Unit?
Permits act as safety measures to ensure that any major installations proceed with minimal damage and hazards. They also function as legal processes that dictate responsibility for any potential destruction or harm that may occur. Many building installations or changes, from electrical work to plumbing work and general construction, require permits. But do you need permission before you install a mini split unit? Find out below.
Who Governs Permits
Permit requirements and types vary by county, state, and city. A required permit’s legalities may include fees, inspection protocols, home sales, who need the permits, and licensing regulations. Checking with your local municipality before installing your mini split is the safest and best way to ensure you comply with the necessary laws.
When You Need a Permit
If you don’t own your home or building, you must hire a professional to install your AC unit and make sure they’re properly permitted and certified for the job. Homeowners and professionals in the HVAC or construction industry are the only ones qualified to apply for permits and the required licensing. Therefore, permits are required when you or a professional is installing, replacing, or removing a mini split system.
How To Obtain a Permit
Each municipality follows a slightly different permit licensing process. In general, to obtain a permit, you first need to fill out the required forms. Some necessary documentation includes an application form, an installation plan (featuring the type of unit you want to install, where and how you want to install it, and the installer), and supporting documents (building structure, energy ratings, and blueprints of existing wiring and plumbing).
Why Mini Split Installations Require Permits
All HVAC systems require a permit before installation. Various factors affect the type of permit needed, including the unit type, mount type, permanency, and your municipality. Although mini splits are some of the easiest heat pumps to install, they do require you to make some structural changes to your building, and they come with various risks. These factors make obtaining permits before installation a legal necessity.
Mini splits also use refrigerants in their main heating, cooling, and connecting components. Handling refrigerants come with potential hazards, ranging from explosions to exposure to toxic chemicals. When installing certain mini splits, such as a hidden mini split AC, you’ll need to make various structural changes to insert the unit in the walls, create room for ductwork, and connect the interior and exterior components. Making changes to a building runs the risk of interfering with existing wiring and plumbing, and the process needs to adhere to legal standards. A permit certifies you to make those changes and ensures you know the potential risks and specific regulations in play.
Installing any HVAC system comes with a range of hazards. Knowing whether you need permission before installing a mini split unit and the various factors that influence the type of permit required protects the safety of yourself, your family, and others. Improper installation can also further cause potential risks that may hinder everyone’s safety. Permits make sure all the proper codes and safety measures are in place before you install and enjoy the benefits of a mini split AC system.
