Window Replacement Permit Checklist
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Window Replacement Permit Checklist
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Part 1: Determine If You Need a Permit
Confirm window type: like-for-like replacement, new opening, or size change
Like-for-like = same size, same opening, no structural change. New opening or size change almost always requires a permit.Check if property is in a locally designated historic district
If yes, you need a Certificate of Appropriateness before a building permit. See historic district guide.Check HOA rules (if applicable)
Even if the city doesn't require a permit, your HOA may require approval for exterior changes including windows.Call or check online with local building department to confirm permit requirement
5-minute call. Don't rely solely on contractor advice — the liability falls on you as the homeowner.If window is in a basement sleeping room, confirm egress compliance
Egress windows always require a permit. Use the Egress Calculator to check dimensions.Check if you're in a coastal zone with special wind/impact requirements
Florida HVHZ, Texas TWIA counties, and NC coastal zones have additional requirements regardless of permit status.
Part 2: Select Compliant Windows
Find your IECC climate zone and required U-factor
Use the Climate Zone Lookup tool. The whole-window NFRC U-factor must meet or beat your local requirement.Confirm SHGC requirement (if in Zone 1–3)
Most of the South requires SHGC ≤ 0.25. Zones 4–8 have no SHGC maximum.Verify windows have NFRC label meeting or exceeding requirements
Ask your supplier for the NFRC data sheet before ordering. The U-factor on the label is whole-window, not center-of-glass.In Florida: confirm Florida Product Approval (FPA) number
All Florida window installations require FPA, even unpermitted ones. In HVHZ (Miami-Dade/Broward), also confirm NOA.In historic district: confirm material and profile match commission requirements
Wood or aluminum-clad preferred. Vinyl almost always rejected. Get product specs before buying.For egress windows: confirm net clear opening meets IRC R310 minimums
5.7 sq ft area, 24" height, 20" width, 44" max sill height. Use the Egress Calculator.
Part 3: Apply for the Permit
Determine who pulls the permit: you (owner-builder) or your contractor
Licensed contractors typically pull permits. Owner-builder permits are available in most states but may restrict resale.Gather property information: address, parcel number, legal description
Usually found on your property tax bill or county assessor website.Prepare site sketch showing window locations and dimensions
Simple hand-drawn or CAD sketch showing which windows are being replaced and their rough opening dimensions.Include window product specifications with NFRC performance data
Manufacturer cut sheet with model number, U-factor, SHGC. Download from manufacturer website.For egress work: include structural engineer's letter if foundation cutting required
Most jurisdictions require engineered drawings before cutting a foundation wall. Confirm with your permit office.For historic district: attach Certificate of Appropriateness before submitting
COA must be in hand before the building permit office will accept your application.Submit application and pay permit fee
Residential window permits typically $75–$400 depending on jurisdiction. Online submission available in most jurisdictions.Confirm approval timeline and inspection scheduling process
Ask: "How do I schedule inspections?" and "Is there a pre-construction inspection required?"
Part 4: During Installation
Post permit card at job site (required in most jurisdictions)
The permit must be visible from the street or accessible to the inspector. Don't start without it.For egress work: schedule rough-in inspection before window is set
Inspector checks lintel/header installation before the window goes in. Schedule this proactively.Verify installed windows match the permitted specification (model, size)
Substitutions mid-project can cause inspection failure. Notify the permit office of any changes before installation.Confirm proper flashing, sill pan, and waterproofing per manufacturer specs
Inspectors check flashing at sill, jambs, and head. Improper installation is the most common final inspection failure.Keep NFRC labels on windows until after final inspection
Inspectors often check labels. Do not remove before the final inspection sign-off.
Part 5: Final Inspection & Close-Out
Schedule final inspection with building department
Do not cover or trim out windows before the final inspection unless specifically authorized by the inspector.For egress: confirm net clear opening is unobstructed and measurable
Inspector will physically open the window and measure. Make sure the window opens freely and fully.Obtain final inspection sign-off / Certificate of Completion
This document is important for home resale and insurance. Keep it with your home records permanently.In Florida: obtain WPI-8 form from TWIA inspector (coastal areas)
Documents windstorm compliance for TWIA insurance. Submit to your insurance agent for premium adjustment.Schedule wind mitigation inspection if impact windows installed (Florida)
Separate from building inspection. Documents impact window installation for insurance discount. Cost: $75–$150.File permit certificate with home records
Future buyers, inspectors, and insurers may request proof of permitted work. Keep indefinitely.
Part 6: Historic District (If Applicable)
Confirm local historic district designation (not just National Register)
National Register listing alone does not restrict private owners. Local designation does. Check with your city's planning department.Download your commission's design guidelines for windows
Most commissions publish guidelines online. These specify acceptable materials, profiles, and submission requirements.Photograph all existing windows before application (interior and exterior)
Include close-ups of any damage or deterioration that supports the replacement case.Get window product specification showing profile dimensions
Commission will compare sash thickness and muntin dimensions to the historic originals.Submit COA application before the commission's submission deadline
Commissions meet monthly. Missing the deadline means a 4-week delay. Confirm the deadline date.Attend commission meeting if full-commission review is required
Bring product samples if possible. Commissioners appreciate seeing the actual window profile and material.Obtain Certificate of Appropriateness before applying for building permit
COA is required before the building department will process your permit application.
Disclaimer: This checklist provides general guidance. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always verify with your local building department and, for historic districts, your local preservation office.