"Second Step: Bathroom Remodeling" is the second of a series of articles to help home owners know more about the process of remodeling a bathroom.

Now that the work explained in "First Step: Bathroom Remodeling" has been completed, you can move on to the next or second step of the process, "Second Step: Bathroom Remodeling". At this time you should setup an appointment with your city or county officials to discuss the scope of your project. The building permits department of every city or county, depending on where you live, will be more than happy to help you. It is best if you could actually go and discuss your project one on one with one of their inspectors or planners.

You should take a few pictures of your existing bathroom and make a hand drawn sketch of what you want your remodeled bathroom to look like. The sketch does not need to be complicated. It needs to show the location of your main fixtures and where they will be moved. It is also good to have an idea of the size of your bathroom (Length and width) and the sizes of the new fixtures you have picked for your new remodel; items or fixtures such as your tub, shower, vanity, toilet and any other large item. The purpose for this visit is to help the city understand your project and to find out if any permits will be required for the type of remodel you have in mind. Many cities and counties require you to obtain a permit for remodeling of a bathroom depending on the type and extent of the remodel.

Make sure you abide by the city or county regulations regarding your remodel and obtain whatever permits are required before purchasing any items and/or contracting any licensed general contractor to start your renovation work. The city permits protect your health and safety and city or county inspectors will inspect the construction and remodeling work several times during the remodeling phase. The inspectors make sure that all work is done in accordance with the building codes and make sure the entire work is completed correctly.

Of course, like anything else there is a cost for these permits and the cost depends on the extent of remodeling work you have in mind. This cost differs depending on the city or county you live in and is payable when your permits are approved and ready to be delivered to you.

Some home owners hire a general contractor to do this part of the work for them. While this could be done, it is better for the homeowner to complete this part of the work by themselves in order to save money and to have a better understanding of the city or county requirements for their bathroom remodeling project.

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