The starting point
Start with the property’s actual jurisdiction and the exact work proposed. Permit requirements can change with the scope, trade work and historic-district status; a mailing address alone is not enough.
Describe the actual change
Replacing a fitting in place and adding a new location can involve different work. Write down what stays, what changes and whether wiring, plumbing, structure or exterior features are involved. This gives Maz and the local permitting office something specific to review.
Use the right local office
Richmond’s Permits and Inspections page explains its permit process, including separate trade permits. Chesterfield County publishes residential project requirements and ordinary-repair exclusions. Use the relevant official page for your property and ask the department about the exact scope rather than assuming an exemption applies.
Check exterior work in a historic district
Richmond’s Commission of Architectural Review reviews exterior changes in the city’s Old and Historic Districts. If your property is within one, discuss the proposed exterior work with the city before proceeding. Historic review and a building permit are related questions that should both be checked.
Agree responsibilities before work starts
Ask who will confirm requirements, obtain any approvals and arrange required inspections. FIXABL’s Virginia DCJS electronic-security license is specific to that field; it does not establish general electrical, building or other trade licensing. Confirm the appropriate qualifications for your project and request current documentation.
Bring these to the conversation
- Property jurisdiction
- Exact work proposed
- Any historic-district or HOA information
- Agreed permit and inspection responsibilities
Useful sources
City of Richmond: permits and inspectionsChesterfield County: residential project requirementsCity of Richmond: architectural reviewSource information checked October 7, 2026. Use the official source for current requirements and product details.
Planning information from FIXABL for homeowners in Richmond, Midlothian and Chesterfield County. The approach, qualifications and approvals needed for your home depend on the specific work and an assessment.