Have questions about City of Southlake regulations and repairing damage to private property from the recent winter storm? See our Q&A below:

Q)  Can a plumber do emergency work without a permit?

A) Yes, the work can be completed. The plumber should obtain a permit from the City at their earliest convenience. This process is especially important as the risk of unscrupulous contractors increases in the aftermath of an emergency situation.

Q)  If a plumber does emergency work will the City conduct an inspection?

A)  Yes, the City will schedule an inspection to ensure that the work completed meets the International Building Code Requirements once an inspection is requested by the permit holder. Once the work is completed by a licensed plumber, the system can be immediately placed back in service prior to the City inspection being conducted. This is an important safeguard for property owners, especially in the aftermath of an emergency.

Q)  Can a contractor do emergency work as a result of water damage or other storm related damage?

A)  Yes, the work can be completed. The contractor should obtain a permit from the City at their earliest convenience. The City will conduct an inspection on the work once requested by the permit holder.

Q)  Can a homeowner repair their own plumbing system?

A) Yes, but the homeowner still needs to obtain a permit from the City and are subject to inspections. The homeowner will need to contact the City to schedule the inspection.

Q)  Who should repair my water heater?

A)  It is recommended that a licensed plumber evaluate and repair water heaters.

Q) Will the City conduct an inspection on my water heater repair?

A)  Yes, once a permit has been obtained, the City will conduct an inspection once requested by the permit holder. If a licensed plumber performs the repairs, the system can be placed back into service immediately prior to an inspection being conducted. The State also allows homeowners to make their own repairs but you still need a permit and are subject to inspections. The City will conduct an inspection once a permit has been obtained and an inspection is requested by the permit holder. The City also can inspect water heaters via a video submitted by the permit holder.

Q)  Is the plumber or contractor responsible for obtaining the necessary permits?

A)  Yes. Reputable contractors understand the process.

Q)  Can permits be obtain online via the website?

A)  Yes, visit the City Building Inspection webpage – Online permitting.

Q)  Will the City be waiving permit fees for emergency repairs related to the recent weather events?

A) Yes – for any storm related damage for a 60 day period.

Q) Why do I need a permit from the City?

A) Permits are written authorizations issued by the City for building related a projects (plumbing, electrical, remodel, etc.) to ensure the safety of the work and its compliance with building, construction and zoning codes. It is also a way to ensure that the contractor that is doing work at your home or business is registered to do work in the City and holds the necessary licenses to perform the work. Once work is completed, the contractor (permit holder) is responsible to contact the City and schedule an inspection.  Once an inspection is scheduled, a City building inspector will visit your home/business to ensure that the work conducted meets all code requirements. This is an important safeguard for property owners, especially in the aftermath of an emergency.

Q)  If I have a question on the permitting process, who should I call or contact?

A)  You can call the Building Inspections Department at 817-748-8236 or 8237 (Business Hours). Also, you can ask a question online by visiting our Building Inspections webpage on the City’s web site.

Q) How do I choose a contractor?

A) Here’s our guidance on selecting a contractor.