Massachusetts Building Code

Posted by fpbulman@msn.com on November 4, 2007, 3:10 pm

Hello. To what degree (if any) can a homeowner perform their own
electrical and plumbing work in Massachusetts?

A new 200 amp service was installed (with the proper permit) by a
licensed electrician; can we install the new wiring for the house
interior without a permit?

Also wondering if all the plumbing can be done by the homeowner so
long as it's signed-off by a licensed plumber?

Thank you,

fpb

Posted by John Grabowski on November 4, 2007, 3:47 pm

> Hello. To what degree (if any) can a homeowner perform their own
> electrical and plumbing work in Massachusetts?
> A new 200 amp service was installed (with the proper permit) by a
> licensed electrician; can we install the new wiring for the house
> interior without a permit?

Not likely. Here in New Jersey a homeowner can work on his/her own single
family detached house as long as it is not a rental unit, but a permit would
still be required. You are better off having a permit and getting the work
inspected.

> Also wondering if all the plumbing can be done by the homeowner so
> long as it's signed-off by a licensed plumber?

You had better consult with a plumber who is willing to do that BEFORE you
start. By having him sign off on your work he assumes the responsibility
for your installation.

Posted by HeyBub on November 4, 2007, 3:51 pm

fpbulman@msn.com wrote:

Dunno. But for contrast, here in Houston, I replaced a funky circuit-breaker
box with a new 200-Amp unit. No permit or inspection required. Electrical
contractor quoted $1700; I did it for about $250. That was almost two years
ago.

Houston also has no zoning. I'm considering putting a couple of gas pumps in
the front yard. Since I have a circular driveway, it oughta work out swell.

Posted by Edwin Pawlowski on November 4, 2007, 3:56 pm

MA is big on licensing for most anything. Check your local inspector before
you start.

Posted by on November 4, 2007, 6:21 pm

Not really. You can do it yourself here and I am trying to remember the full
details, I am pretty sure you have to put up some kind of bond. And you are
asked questions, not sure if it is in the form of a test. And you are
inspected very carefully(you know what I mean). I do know for sure it can be
done for electrical. I do not know anyone first hand that has done it. I had
always understood in MA we could not do any electrical or plumbing here
since they passed a law some years ago. Only reason I have any knowledge of
this is my electrician who explained to me it could be done by a homeowner
under conditions and that they make it near impossible with very technical
stuff. I had tried many years ago when I added a small stairway to my house
to get a permit to put in one light in the stairway and was turned down and
was told it could only be done by a licensed electrician. They really are a
pain here. My electrician at least let's me help so I can keep some of the
bill down. We are talking legal here. Good luck.

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